There was much speculation before Pippa Middleton’s wedding as to what role sister, Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge, would have during the ceremony. Pippa Middleton famously served as one of Kate’s bridesmaids at the 2011 royal wedding (her dress becoming one of the most discussed bridesmaid dresses of all time). However, Kate was not given an official role in Pippa’s ceremony, presumably as a means for letting Pippa shine the brightest, without being upstaged by her uncommonly famous sister.
The Duchess did seem to play several roles based on photographs —though they were not formally designated. She was seen helping Pippa make her entrance, holding up the train, and also leading the group of young children serving as bridesmaids and page boys. She was also seen shushing Prince George in one of the most circulated photographs from the day.
It turns out Kate also contributed to the service, held at St. Mark’s Church, in a more subtle, surprising way. Kate, per a new report from The Sun, drew a sketch of the church that was featured on the program for Pippa’s ceremony. The program was photographed in the hands of groom James Matthews’ mother, as she left the service.
According to The Sun, Matthews himself also cited Kate’s drawing during his speech, saying, “To Pippa’s sister, such ability—a beautiful drawing of St. Mark’s Church in the order of service.” That she would not be referred to by name further indicates the intention to mitigate drawing any extra any to Kate.
The Duchess of Cambridge has always been known to be a supporter and champion of the arts. She majored in art history in college and has become a patron of the National Portrait Gallery, as well as the charity The Art Room. She also now regularly takes the photographs of Prince George and Princess Charlotte that are typically released on their birthdays or holidays. This is the first time the public has become privy to her drawing talent.