Royal wedding highlights, from Meghan Markle’s mom Doria Ragland to Prince Harry’s dad Charles

The royal wedding of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry proved to be one of those rare occasions when the televised stunning reality surpasses all expectations.

From Meghan Markle’s exquisite gown to Prince Harry’s sweet smile to their shared looks of love, Saturday’s royal wedding ceremony that united these two lovebirds provided viewers with a glimpse of a fairy tale come true. The most touching moments actually began even before viewers caught a glimpse of the Princess Bride, with the adorable news flash that Meghan’s dog got to ride with Queen Elizabeth to the royal wedding.

Markle’s rescue beagle, whose name is Gus, may not have appreciated his opportunity to get insights into what awaited his human mommy at the end of the wedding aisle, but his presence on Meghan’s special day was just the first of many heart-warming moments that made Markle’s and Prince Harry’s wedding celebration so charming.

Meghan Markle walks down the aisle with Prince Harry’s dad Prince Charles

Headlines leading up to the wedding focused on the question: Who would walk Meghan down the aisle? Prince Harry’s father Prince Charles stepped up to do the honors. Markle proved that she didn’t need a fictional TV show to steal the spotlight as she began walking down the aisle alone, all eyes upon the exquisite bride’s beautiful gown and lovely face framed by a lacy veil.

Prince Charles and Meghan exchanged grins as they met halfway to the altar. After Charles had escorted his son Prince Harry’s now-wife to the front of the chapel, Harry thanked his father with a simple, “Thank you, Pa.”

Royal wedding fashion: Meghan and Harry look picture-perfect

After all the buzz about Markle’s wedding gown, the designer and style finally are known! Meghan opted for a Givenchy gown with long sleeves and a boat-neck style that made her look slimmer than ever. Prince Harry’s wife completed her royal wedding fashion with a sweeping train, long veil, and, in homage to Queen Mary, a glittering Diamond Bandeau tiara.

As Prince Harry stood by Meghan’s side during the ceremony, he paid tribute to his years in the British Army by wearing his uniform. Harry at one point in the ceremony appeared to be wiping away tears, looking nervous yet happy as he exchanged smiles with his bride throughout the royal wedding.

Prince William, best man, and Doria Ragland, mother of the bride, shine during Meghan Markle and Prince Harry royal wedding

TV viewers were treated to close-ups of Meghan’s and Harry’s family and friends, all of whom were dressed in their finest as they sat in the chapel to show their support for the bride and groom during the royal wedding.

Prince William stepped up to take on the role of best man for the ceremony. However, Markle chose to omit the rituals associated with having a maid of honor. But the mother of the bride, Doria Ragland, provided some of the sweetest moments during the ceremony.

Related Story: Royal wedding: Will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle kiss for TV viewers?

Doria smiled throughout the royal wedding, even though she occasionally seemed tearful as she watched her 36-year-old daughter become an official member of British royalty. After the exchange of wedding vows and rings, Meghan and Harry left the chapel. Prince Charles followed, stopping to take the hand of Doria as they left.

The ultimate words of wisdom came not from the bride or groom, but from Rev. Michael Bruce Curry, who gave the sermon during the royal wedding. “When love is the way, there is plenty of room, plenty of room for all of God’s children,” said Rev. Curry.