His Holiness Serbian Patriarch Irinej officiated the wedding of HRH Prince Philip and Miss Danica Marinkovic at the beautiful Serbian Orthodox Minster in Belgrade.
The wedding was described as “lavish”, the first in Belgrade since 1922.
“This is one of the most beautiful days in my life and I am overjoyed to share it with you! We are here to celebrate the beginning of Philip’s and Danica’s life together, for which we wish them to be filled by happiness and love. It is my duty and privilege to welcome Her Royal Highness Princess Danica to our home. I welcome her parents, too, wishing that good luck, health, harmony and family blessings will follow the new couple and through them our homes. Dear Danica, dear Philip, please know that you can always rely on our support”, said on this occasion HRH Crown Prince Alexander.
“Danica and I thank you all for being with us on the most beautiful day of our lives so far. We are so happy to share the joy of this moment with you. We thank our parents for organizing this magnificent celebration for us here at the White palace. And above all, thank you Dana for all your love and making for making me the happiest man in the world”, said Prince Philip in his address.
The newlyweds appeared elated as they were showered with rose petals when they left the Church by children in national costume. The royals waved at the hundreds who had patiently waited for a glimpse.
Media reported that Danica, 30, looked “stunning in an elegant white gown with billowing sleeves and a sweeping train, which was adorned with a large bow at the front” created by world-famous British-Serb fashion designer Roksanda Ilincic.
European royals were in attendance including Queen Sofia of Spain, and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, who served as godmother while the royal groom’s brother Hereditary Prince Peter was kum’ (godfather).
British papers noted that HRH Prince Philip was educated and lives and works in London. Danica, daughter of renowned impressionist artist Cile Marinkovic, is a French citizen and a graduate of the Chelsea College of Arts in London. Her work has been displayed throughout Europe.
The reception was held in the grounds of the white palace where the couple took their first dance as Prince and Princess.
The Prince addressed his wife at the groom’s speech saying, “Thank you Dana for all your love and for making me the happiest man in the world”.
The Daily Mail had previously published an article with news of the couple’s engagement and described Danica as a lover of sun-kissed holidays and high fashion who nevertheless “likes to shop at Top Shop” and has “already rubbed shoulders with Prince Charles”.
