Around 650 guests joined newlyweds Prince William and Kate Middleton at Buckingham Palace for the Queen’s reception, an exclusive invitation, after the two exchanged vows at the Wesminister Abbey.

Prince Harry’s “Brilliant” Royal Reception Toast

Alex van Straubenzee, father of the late Henry van Straubenzee, a close friend of William’s, described the reception as “cozy”:

“It was very cozy. There was a wonderful relaxed atmosphere. There were lots of people there – even in a place as big as Buckingham Palace. I won’t say it was informal, but everyone was having a wonderful time.”

Grace van Cutsem Ruins William & Kate First Royal Kiss

Another male guest said that Prince Charles and Prince William gave touching speeches:

“It was a very happy scene. We cut the cake, and then Charles gave a lovely speech about his son and spoke about him in a very lovely way.”

Guests were treated to canapés, such as Cornish crab salad and quail eggs, and the newlyweds were toasted with Pol Roger NV Brut Reserve champagne. As for dessert, the guests had their choice of a traditional fruit cake or a chocolate biscuit cake, requested personally by Prince William.

Pippa Middleton’s Royal Reception Gown (PHOTO)

David Livingstone, the head of St. Andrew’s School and a guest at the reception, said:

“What I found amazing was the ability for the royal family to wander into a room with 600 people and just say thank you [to so many of them]. To be able to just go in, talk very freely and move on.”

It all sounds lovely. But what I’m most confused about is how a reception with 65o people can be “cozy”….maybe that word means something else in Britain.

[image: People]