Manufacturing Dreams: the Royal Wedding Delivers

For many women around the globe, one dream is officially over. These women raised to don tiaras and slippers and sing “Some Day my Prince Will Come,” whilst frolicking in the woods with the deer and birds, watched with anguish as Kate declared, “I do” on Friday. As one sign in the crowd read, Kate did indeed checkmate and win the king.

Yes, it was the quintessential Disney-esque wedding. Even the origins of their love story, a prince falling in love with a commoner while away from home, has its roots in archetypal mythology. What woman, or little girl for that matter, has not believed – has not dreamed – she would find her prince disguised in everyday clothes, struggling to be just like everyone else?

And what a way to seal the deal! Only this wedding could bring back the elegance of Sunday hats and morning coats. If Disney producers were not part of the planning, then I’m sure their imagineers will be stealing, or “will be inspired by” many of the details. Trees in Westminster.  A Fleet of royal cars, carriages, horses, and airplanes. Angelic voices of a boys’ choir. Page boys, flower girls, global dignitaries…. And the dress! Oh – that amazing, sophisticated, classy dress.

But no event, even this royal wedding, would be complete without a faux pas. It was Will’s first cousins Beatrice and Eugenia who starred in the roles of Cinderella’s ugly stepsisters. While their mother was not invited to the royal event, it does seem shameful that no one mentioned wearing a flattened albatross on one’s head might not be the most stylish accessory. Sorry Beatrice, you won’t be filling Kate’s slippers this time.

After months of anticipation, the royal wedding turned into a satisfying event. The empire is turning a new page, and by showcasing the youth and vibrancy of this new monarchy, one can’t help but feel optimistic about the future.

Many argue that there is no place for the British monarchy in our world. But if that institution collapses, what happens to our dreams?  Disney marketing has proved that there will always be a place for the idea that an everyday girl can become a princess.

I don’t want to give little girls the impression that marrying a prince will make life perfect. But, I do think that there is value in the world watching a couple who do seem to love each other, profess holy vows, and devote themselves to making the world a better place.

I guess my dream is in fact over. Wills is officially taken. But fear not young ladies, your dream continues. After all, the mischievous Prince Harry is still on the market.