That old conundrum: what to buy the happy couple? Toasters are so 80s and buying a single John Lewis bowl and fork at the eleventh hour feels cheap and unthoughtful. Imagine then, having to buy for the future King and Queen of England. What might cut the mustard on that gift table? Platinum cruets? If we were on the guest list, we'd definitely be buying them a set of those ace alternative plates. And a pair of those mugs.
Unfortunately, our invitations got lost in the post but that need not stop us showering the newlywedstobe with our munificence. Prince William and Miss Middleton have set up a 'good gifts' solution with the creation of their own charitable pot to benefit good causes close to their hearts. Kate 'n' Wills know you "bought" your Mum an African goat for Christmas. Hence, you are invited to celebrate the impending jolly nuptials with a donation to their fund and the leaving of a goodwill message.
It's a neat idea. The fund reflects their personal and joint interests and passions and sets them up as humanitarians in tune with 21st century needs with an eye for innovation. Plus they're championing charities that Prince William is not already patron of. Whilst the world renowned ZSL is writ large in the conservation category, niche organisations like Dance United, Ocean Youth Trust and Oily Cart feature in 'changing lives through art and sport'. You can also donate to organisations working to 'support service personnel and their families', 'children fulfilling their potential' and 'help and care at home'.
Warning: attempts at satire on the Messages of Goodwill page is a treasonable offence. At least, don't expect them to make it past the royal moderators.
You can keep an eye on all the arrangements for the Official Royal Wedding 2011 at the Official Royal Wedding website. The British Monarchy have a Flickr stream where you can look at Catherine Middleton aged 3 and a half.
We hope our Royal Wedding coverage might offer you something slightly different.
Engagement photo courtesy of Clarence House
