Who is NHS nurse and newest royal Harriet Sperling?
Who is NHS nurse and newest – Peter Phillips, the nephew of King Charles and son of Princess Anne, married NHS nurse Harriet Sperling in a private ceremony at All Saints Church, Kemble, Gloucestershire. The event, attended by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and the Prince and Princess of Wales, followed an engagement announcement made in August 2025.
Engagement and Background
The couple’s union was confirmed after two years of dating, which began in 2024. Their relationship has been highlighted by shared appearances at high-profile events, including Royal Ascot and Wimbledon. Phillips and Sperling were seen together at these occasions, with the latter occasionally accompanying her teenage daughter Georgina.
About Harriet Sperling
Harriet Sperling, now Mrs. Phillips, is a freelance writer and paediatric nurse specialist based in Gloucestershire. She gained recognition for a column published in March 2024 under the name Harriet Sanders, discussing parenting as a single mother. In that piece, she described her journey as a Christian and reflected on the challenges of raising a child alone, stating:
“I liken us to an island and it has often felt hard to imagine anyone joining that island.”
Wedding Details
The ceremony included a traditional carriage procession, a custom shared by the Royal Family. Harriet was escorted by her brother Nicholas Sanders, honoring their late father, Rupert Sanders. Her mother, Mary, and sisters Louisa and Rebecca were also present. Among the guests were Zara and Mike Tindall, along with their daughters, and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, who brought their son James, Earl of Wessex. Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice, with their spouses, celebrated the couple as they exchanged rings.
Harriet’s wedding attire featured a dress designed by Emilia Wickstead, earrings from Pragnell, and the family tiara. She wore Jimmy Choo shoes, while the bridesmaids also donned designs by Emilia Wickstead. The bouquet included sweet peas, myrtle—a tradition for both the Royal Family and Sperling’s own lineage—and lily of the valley.
Royal Connection
King Charles and Queen Camilla managed to attend both the Epsom Derby and the wedding on the same day. According to The Telegraph, the royal couple traveled via helicopter for the 100-mile journey from Gloucestershire to Surrey, ensuring they were present for the Derby and the nuptials. The event marked a significant moment in the royal family’s history, with the new bride’s inclusion as a member of the extended royal circle.
