Imagine a royal wedding so enchanting, its memories still captivate us years later. Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank’s seventh anniversary is here, and it’s not just the couple celebrating—their wedding photographer, Sandra von Riekhoff, has shared a breathtaking behind-the-scenes photo that feels like a fairy tale come to life. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: this isn’t just any snapshot. It’s a rare, intimate glimpse of Eugenie in the back of a Bentley, en route to St George’s Chapel at Windsor, her bridal gown cascading around her as she looks down, lost in the moment. And this is the part most people miss—the gown itself was a masterpiece, designed by Peter Pilotto and Christopher de Vos, featuring a low V-shaped back, a portrait neckline, and a full skirt. But what truly makes it special? The fabric was adorned with the White Rose of York, a heartfelt tribute to her parents, the Duke and Duchess of York. Controversial or not, could this be one of the most meaningful royal wedding gowns in recent history?
Now, let’s talk about the tiara—because who doesn’t love a little royal bling? Eugenie wore the Greville Emerald Kokoshnik tiara, a 1920s Art Deco heirloom said to have been crafted in Paris. Its centerpiece? A jaw-dropping 93.7-carat emerald. But here’s the kicker: while Alex Bramall was the official wedding photographer, Sandra von Riekhoff was the one entrusted with capturing these private, sentimental moments. And this is where it gets tricky—Sandra revealed in an interview with HELLO! that one of the biggest challenges was winning over a key individual who really didn’t like having their photo taken. Is it Prince Andrew? Or someone else entirely? Sandra’s solution? Building trust and disarming reluctance with charm and conversation. “Having a photographer that’s really likeable and easy with people is great for that kind of thing,” she explained. But what’s truly remarkable is how Eugenie herself recognized Sandra’s unique ability to handle the royal family with sensitivity and humor. In a heartfelt note, Eugenie praised Sandra’s “way with people” and her talent for matching energy—a skill that’s priceless in such high-pressure environments. So, here’s the question: What makes a wedding photographer truly exceptional—technical skill, or the ability to connect on a human level? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears!
