The Most Memorable Royal Weddings of All Time

Royal weddings have always held a special place in the hearts of people around the globe, symbolizing unity, tradition, and the continuation of a royal lineage. These grand events are not only significant for the royal families themselves but also serve as moments of celebration for entire nations. From the majestic Westminster Abbey to the intimate settings of royal residences like Windsor Castle, each venue chosen for a royal wedding carries its historic significance and adds to the allure of the occasion. Moreover, the attire worn by the bride, groom, and their distinguished guests, along with the elaborate ceremonies and time-honored customs, all contribute to the magnificence of these regal celebrations. Today, we delve into the fascinating history of British royal weddings, exploring the iconic ceremonies, the memorable venues, and the enduring legacies left behind by these extraordinary events.

Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten

The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Sir Philip Mountbatten (later Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh) took place on Thursday 20 November 1947 at Westminster Abbey in London, United Kingdom. The bride was the elder daughter of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother) as well as the heir presumptive to the British throne. The groom was born a Greek and Danish prince; he stopped using these foreign titles on his adoption of British nationality four months before the announcement of their marriage and was made Duke of Edinburgh, Earl of Merioneth, and Baron Greenwich on the morning of the wedding.

The couple first met in 1934 when Princess Elizabeth was just 8 years old, and Philip was 13. Their paths crossed several times over the years, and they began exchanging letters during World War II when Philip served in the Royal Navy. Their engagement was officially announced on July 9, 1947, after Elizabeth turned 21.

Venue

The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten took place at Westminster Abbey on November 20, 1947, making Princess Elizabeth the tenth member of the royal family to be married at the Abbey.

Bridal Party

Princess Elizabeth was attended by eight bridesmaids and accompanied by Prince William of Gloucester and Prince Michael of Kent as page boys. The best man was the Marquess of Milford Haven, Philip's maternal first cousin.

Wedding Attire

Princess Elizabeth wore a stunning ivory silk wedding dress designed by Norman Hartnell, which featured intricate floral embroidery, a fitted bodice, and a 13-foot-long train. She accessorized with a diamond tiara and a double-string pearl necklace, a gift from her father, King George VI. Prince Philip, who had renounced his Greek and Danish titles to become a British subject and adopt the surname Mountbatten, wore his Royal Navy uniform for the occasion.

Wedding Service

The wedding ceremony was broadcast on the radio to millions of listeners worldwide, making it the first royal wedding to be broadcast on such a scale. Despite the austerity measures in place due to post-war rationing, the wedding was a grand affair, bringing some much-needed joy and celebration to the nation. The music included hymns and anthems, with William Neil McKie serving as the director of music. The couple exchanged vows in front of a congregation of 2,000 guests, including foreign royals, diplomats, and dignitaries.

Following the ceremony, which was a significant highlight among the best royal weddings around the world, the newlyweds embarked on a carriage procession through the streets of London. This allowed the public to catch a glimpse of the royal couple, marking the event with widespread enthusiasm and heralding the beginning of a long and enduring partnership between Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

Wedding Ring

Princess Elizabeth's wedding band was made of Welsh gold, originating from the Clogau St David's mine, a nugget of which was given to her by Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon.

Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones

The union between Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, and Antony Armstrong-Jones, a distinguished photographer, captivated the world with its glamour and elegance. On May 6, 1960, their nuptials marked a momentous occasion in the history of royal weddings, blending tradition with modernity.

Venue

The wedding ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey, the iconic venue steeped in centuries of royal tradition. Its grandeur provided the perfect backdrop for the royal couple's exchange of vows, witnessed by dignitaries, celebrities, and millions around the globe.

Bridal Party

Princess Margaret was attended by a distinguished bridal party, including her niece Princess Anne, her cousin Princess Alexandra of Kent, and other members of European royalty. Antony Armstrong-Jones was supported by his best man, Dr. Roger Gilliatt, a neurologist and close friend.

Wedding Attire

Princess Margaret's wedding gown, designed by Norman Hartnell, was a masterpiece of elegance, featuring a fitted bodice, full skirt, and intricate embellishments. Her veil, crafted from silk tulle, cascaded gracefully from a diamond tiara lent by her mother, Queen Elizabeth, and adorned with sparkling diamonds.

Wedding Service

The ceremony was conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Geoffrey Fisher, and televised to millions worldwide, offering a rare glimpse into the royal festivities. Guests were treated to a majestic display of pomp and pageantry, as the couple exchanged vows amidst the strains of traditional hymns and anthems.

Wedding Ring

Princess Margaret's wedding band, made of Welsh gold like those of other royal brides, symbolized the enduring nature of her commitment. Antony Armstrong-Jones also received a simple gold band, signifying their union in matrimony.

Reception and Festivities

Following the ceremony, a lavish reception was held at Buckingham Palace, where guests were treated to a sumptuous banquet and entertainment fit for royalty. The newlyweds embarked on a honeymoon voyage aboard the royal yacht Britannia, setting sail for the Caribbean amid much fanfare and adulation.

Princess Anne and Mark Phillips

On November 14, 1973, Buckingham Palace witnessed a grand celebration as Princess Anne, the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, exchanged vows with Mark Phillips, a British Army officer. Their union, celebrated as one of the most romantic royal weddings of all time, marked a moment of joy and splendor for the royal family and the British public, as they gathered to witness the marriage of a beloved princess.

Venue

The wedding ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey, a venue steeped in royal tradition and history. Its towering spires and magnificent interior provided a fitting backdrop for the solemn vows exchanged by the royal couple.

Bridal Party

Princess Anne was attended by a distinguished bridal party, including her younger brother, Prince Edward, who served as a pageboy, and her cousin, Prince Richard of Gloucester, who acted as her best man. The bridesmaids included her cousin, Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones, and other close friends and relatives.

Wedding Attire

Princess Anne's wedding gown, designed by Maureen Baker, was an exquisite creation of white silk with a high neckline and long sleeves. The dress featured intricate floral embroidery and a flowing train, embodying the elegance and grace befitting a royal bride. Anne's veil, held in place by the Queen Mary Fringe Tiara, added a touch of regal splendor to her ensemble.

Wedding Service

Led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Michael Ramsey, the wedding ceremony was a solemn and sacred affair, as Princess Anne and Mark Phillips exchanged vows of love and commitment. The traditional Anglican service was accompanied by hymns and prayers, creating a sense of reverence and joy among the gathered guests.

Reception and Festivities

Following the ceremony, a grand reception was held at Buckingham Palace, where dignitaries, foreign royals, and members of the aristocracy gathered to celebrate the newlyweds. Guests were treated to a lavish banquet and dancing, with the palace's opulent ballroom serving as the perfect setting for the joyous occasion.

Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer

Amidst the grandeur of St. Paul's Cathedral in London, on July 29, 1981, the world witnessed a spectacle of unprecedented proportions - the wedding of Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, to Lady Diana Spencer, a young woman who captured the hearts of millions around the globe. The union of the Prince of Wales and the shy kindergarten teacher hailed as one of the biggest royal weddings in history.

The wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer captivated the imagination of the world, transcending the boundaries of culture, class, and geography. Their fairytale romance, immortalized in photographs and televised broadcasts, became a symbol of hope and optimism during a time of profound social change. Though their marriage faced challenges in later years, their wedding day remains etched in history as a moment of unparalleled splendor and romance, forever remembered as the dawn of a new era in the British monarchy.

Venue

St. Paul's Cathedral, with its magnificent dome and iconic presence on the London skyline, served as the majestic setting for the royal nuptials. Its grandeur and historical significance provided a fitting backdrop for the union of the future king and his beloved bride.

Bridal Party

Lady Diana Spencer was attended by an ensemble of bridesmaids, including her nieces, Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones and Lady Jane Fellowes, along with young relatives of the royal family. Prince Charles was supported by his brothers, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward, who acted as his groomsmen.

Wedding Attire

The world eagerly awaited the first glimpse of Lady Diana's wedding gown, a creation of ivory silk taffeta and antique lace designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel. The dress featured voluminous sleeves, a fitted bodice, and a dramatic train measuring 25 feet in length, adorned with hand-embroidered sequins and pearls. Diana's veil, held in place by the Spencer family tiara, cascaded elegantly behind her, creating an ethereal vision of bridal beauty. Prince Charles looked resplendent in his naval uniform, complete with ceremonial regalia and military decorations.

The Jewelry

As befitting a royal bride, Lady Diana adorned herself with exquisite jewelry, including the Spencer family tiara, adorned with diamonds and featuring a stunning sapphire centerpiece. She also wore diamond earrings, a wedding gift from her groom.

Wedding Service

Led by the Most Reverend Robert Runcie, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the wedding ceremony was a blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting the evolving nature of the royal family. In front of a captivated audience, Prince Charles and Lady Diana exchanged traditional vows, pledging their love and commitment to each other in a ceremony filled with solemnity and emotion.

Following the exchange of vows, the newlyweds shared a tender kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, much to the delight of the crowds gathered below. It was a moment of pure romance and joy, etched forever in the pages of history.

The wedding featured a selection of music befitting its grandeur, including hymns such as "I Vow to Thee, My Country" and "God Save the Queen." The ceremony also included performances by renowned musicians, adding to the enchantment of the day.

Reception and Festivities

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds embarked on a carriage procession through the streets of London, greeted by throngs of well-wishers who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the royal couple. A grand reception was held at Buckingham Palace, where dignitaries, foreign royals, and celebrities mingled in celebration of the historic occasion. The evening culminated in a gala dinner and dancing, with fireworks illuminating the night sky as a symbol of joy and hope for the future.

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson

On the radiant morning of July 23, 1986, Buckingham Palace was adorned with splendor as Prince Andrew, Duke of York, and Sarah Ferguson exchanged vows in a ceremony that captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Let's delve into the enchanting details of one of the best royal weddings!

The Venue

The majestic setting of Westminster Abbey provided the perfect backdrop for the royal nuptials. Steeped in history and tradition, the Abbey's grandeur lent an air of regal magnificence to the occasion.

The Bridal Party

Sarah Ferguson, affectionately known as "Fergie," was attended by her sister Jane Ferguson and her close friends, while Prince Andrew's support came from his brother, Prince Edward. The adorable presence of Prince William and Prince Harry added a delightful touch to the bridal procession.

The Dress

Designed by Linda Cierach, Sarah Ferguson's wedding gown was a vision of elegance and sophistication. Crafted from ivory duchesse satin and featuring intricate beading and embroidery, the gown showcased the bride's radiant beauty as she walked down the aisle.

The Jewelry

Adorned with a stunning tiara lent by Queen Elizabeth II, Sarah Ferguson sparkled with regal grace on her wedding day. The tiara, adorned with diamonds and adorned with a striking diamond fringe, added a touch of royalty to her ensemble.

The Ceremony

Led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Robert Runcie, the wedding ceremony was a blend of solemnity and celebration. With hymns, prayers, and vows exchanged in the presence of esteemed guests and dignitaries, the union of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson was sealed in a moment of profound significance.

As they stood before the altar, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson pledged their love and devotion to each other in a ceremony filled with emotion and sincerity. Their vows echoed through the hallowed halls of Westminster Abbey, resonating with the promise of a lifetime of happiness together.

Following the exchange of vows, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson shared a tender kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, much to the delight of the cheering crowds gathered below. It was a moment of pure romance and jubilation, symbolizing the beginning of their life together as husband and wife.

The wedding was graced with the melodic strains of timeless hymns and classical music, filling the Abbey with a sense of joy and reverence. From Handel's "Zadok the Priest" to the traditional wedding march, each musical arrangement added to the enchantment of the day.

The Reception

A grand reception was held at Buckingham Palace, where guests were treated to a sumptuous feast and dazzling entertainment. From champagne toasts to lively music and dancing, the festivities continued late into the night, marking the joyous occasion in style.

Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones

Amidst the splendor of St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, Prince Edward, the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth II, exchanged vows with Sophie Rhys-Jones on June 19, 1999, in a ceremony that captured the imagination of people around the world. 

The Venue

St. George's Chapel, with its Gothic architecture and rich history, provided an exquisite setting for the royal nuptials. Located within the grounds of Windsor Castle, the chapel has been the backdrop for numerous royal weddings and ceremonies throughout the centuries.

The Bridal Party

Sophie Rhys-Jones was attended by a select group of bridesmaids, including her sister-in-law, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. Prince Edward's brother, Prince Charles, served as his best man, standing by his side as he awaited his bride at the altar.

The Dress

Designed by Samantha Shaw, Sophie Rhys-Jones' wedding gown was the epitome of timeless elegance. Crafted from ivory silk organza and featuring intricate beading and lace appliques, the gown perfectly complemented the bride's grace and poise.

The Jewelry

 Adorned with a delicate tiara borrowed from her mother-in-law, Queen Elizabeth II, Sophie exuded regal charm on her wedding day. The tiara, adorned with diamonds and pearls, added a touch of royal glamour to her bridal ensemble.

The Ceremony

Led by the Dean of Windsor, the wedding ceremony was a blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting the unique personalities of the bride and groom. With vows exchanged amidst the grandeur of St. George's Chapel, Prince Edward, and Sophie Rhys-Jones sealed their union in a moment of profound significance.

Following the exchange of vows, Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones sealed their marriage with a tender kiss, much to the delight of the gathered crowds and well-wishers. It was a moment of pure romance and celebration, marking the beginning of their life together as husband and wife.

Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles

On April 9, 2005, Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, and Camilla Parker Bowles tied the knot in a ceremony that epitomized the evolution of modern royal weddings. This event, the culmination of a decades-long love story, was celebrated amidst both reverence and controversy, capturing the world's attention. The wedding, marked by its blend of tradition and modernity, elicited mixed reactions. Many people congratulated the couple and embraced their union, while others held reservations, influenced by the complexities of their past and the enduring memory of the late Princess Diana.

The Venue

The wedding took place at the Guildhall in Windsor, followed by a service of blessing at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. The choice of venue reflected the couple's desire for a more intimate ceremony, away from the grandeur of Westminster Abbey or St. Paul's Cathedral.

The Bridal Party

Unlike traditional royal weddings, Prince Charles and Camilla opted for a modest bridal party. Camilla's daughter, Laura Parker Bowles, served as her chief bridesmaid, while Prince William and Prince Harry, Charles's sons, attended as ushers. The absence of a maid of honor or pageboys was a departure from convention but underscored the couple's desire for simplicity.

The Dress

For her wedding day, Camilla chose an elegant ensemble designed by Robinson Valentine. The cream-colored silk dress featured exquisite embroidery and lace detailing, reflecting her understated style and sophistication.

The Jewelry

Camilla accessorized her bridal attire with heirloom jewelry, including a diamond brooch gifted to her by Prince Charles. The brooch, featuring intricate floral motifs, held sentimental value and symbolized their enduring bond.

The Ceremony

The civil ceremony at the Guildhall was a private affair attended by close family and friends. Prince Charles and Camilla exchanged vows and rings in a solemn yet heartfelt ceremony, officiated by the Registrar of Windsor and Maidenhead.

The Blessing

Following the civil ceremony, the couple proceeded to St. George's Chapel for a service of blessing conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams. The service, attended by members of the royal family and dignitaries, affirmed the couple's commitment to each other in the eyes of the church.

The Reception

A reception was held at Windsor Castle, where guests were treated to a lavish banquet and musical performances. The atmosphere was one of joy and celebration, as family and friends gathered to toast the newlyweds and wish them happiness in their married life.

Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly

On May 17, 2008, within the majestic confines of St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, Peter Phillips, the eldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II, and Autumn Kelly, a Canadian management consultant, were united in matrimony. Their wedding beautifully merged tradition with modernity, making it a memorable celebration that perfectly captured the spirit of contemporary royal ceremonies.

The Venue

St. George's Chapel, renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and historical significance, provided a majestic backdrop for the wedding. Located within the grounds of Windsor Castle, the chapel has been the setting for numerous royal weddings, including that of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

The Bridal Party

The bridal party included members of the royal family, with Peter's cousins, Prince William and Zara Phillips, serving as best man and maid of honor, respectively. Autumn's close friends and family members from Canada also played significant roles, adding a touch of international flair to the proceedings.

The Dress

Autumn Kelly's wedding gown, designed by Sassi Holford, epitomized timeless elegance. Crafted from ivory duchess satin with a delicate lace bodice, the dress showcased Autumn's radiant beauty and sophisticated style. A flowing veil adorned with intricate lace motifs completed her bridal ensemble.

The Ceremony

The wedding ceremony, officiated by the Dean of Windsor, Reverend David Conner, followed Anglican tradition with hymns, prayers, and scripture readings. Peter and Autumn exchanged traditional vows, pledging their love and commitment to each other in the presence of their families and friends.

The Reception

Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a lavish reception held within the grounds of Windsor Castle. The reception featured a sumptuous banquet, fine wines, and live entertainment, creating an atmosphere of warmth and conviviality. The guest list included members of the royal family, dignitaries, and close friends of the bride and groom. Among the notable attendees were Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, Prince Charles, and other members of the royal household, as well as representatives from Autumn's native Canada.

In addition to the private reception, Peter and Autumn greeted well-wishers outside the chapel, sharing their joy with the public. The newlyweds exchanged smiles and waved to the crowds, receiving congratulations and gifts from admirers gathered along the procession route.

The Floral Arrangements

The floral arrangements for the wedding were a sight to behold, with cascades of seasonal blooms adorning the chapel and reception venue. From fragrant roses to delicate lilies, the flowers added a touch of natural beauty and romance to the occasion.

Prince William and Catherine Middleton

On April 29, 2011, the world watched with bated breath as Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, exchanged vows with Catherine Middleton, now known as Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, in a ceremony that captivated hearts across the globe. Let's delve into the grandeur and splendor of one of the top royal weddings in history.

The Venue

The iconic Westminster Abbey served as the majestic setting for the royal nuptials. Its soaring arches and ornate architecture provided a breathtaking backdrop for the ceremony, attended by dignitaries, royals, and millions of viewers worldwide.

The Bridal Party

Catherine Middleton, radiant in her Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen gown, was attended by her sister, Pippa Middleton, who served as her maid of honor. Prince William's younger brother, Prince Harry, stood proudly by his side as his best man, creating a poignant tableau of sibling support and camaraderie.

The Dress

Designed by Sarah Burton, creative director of the fashion house Alexander McQueen, Catherine's gown was a masterpiece of craftsmanship and elegance. With its delicate lace sleeves, fitted bodice, and flowing train, the dress evoked timeless grace and sophistication, earning admiration from fashion enthusiasts around the world.

The Ceremony

Steeped in tradition yet infused with personal touches, the wedding ceremony was a blend of solemnity and celebration. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, officiated the service, which included hymns, prayers, and readings selected by the couple. As William and Catherine exchanged vows, the world witnessed a moment of profound significance and joy.

The musical program for the wedding was a harmonious blend of classical compositions and contemporary arrangements. From Handel's "Zadok the Priest" to Elgar's "Nimrod," the stirring melodies filled the abbey with a sense of grandeur and reverence, underscoring the solemnity of the occasion.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds embarked on a majestic procession through the streets of London, traveling in a horse-drawn carriage adorned with flowers and regal splendor. Crowds of well-wishers lined the route, cheering and waving flags in a display of jubilation and support.

The Balcony Kiss

One of the most iconic moments of the day came when Prince William and Catherine appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, sharing a tender kiss before the cheering crowds below. It was a gesture of love and affection that captured the hearts of millions and became an enduring symbol of their romance.

The Reception

A glittering reception held at Buckingham Palace offered guests a chance to toast the newlyweds and celebrate in style. From champagne toasts to gourmet delicacies, the evening was a feast for the senses, with music, dancing, and laughter filling the historic halls of the palace.

The wedding guest list included members of the royal family, foreign dignitaries, celebrities, and close friends of the bride and groom. Among the notable attendees were Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, and other members of the royal household, as well as celebrities from the worlds of entertainment, sports, and philanthropy.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

On May 19, 2018, a global audience tuned in to watch Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Meghan Markle, now the Duchess of Sussex, as they pledged their vows in a spellbinding ceremony. This modern-day fairy tale, rich with charm and elegance, captivated hearts worldwide, weaving together tradition and contemporary romance.

The Venue

St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle provided the perfect backdrop for the most recent royal wedding. The chapel, with its Gothic grandeur and intimate ambiance, provided a perfect backdrop for a ceremony that was both reverent and deeply romantic.

The Bridal Party

Meghan Markle, resplendent in a stunning Givenchy gown designed by Clare Waight Keller, walked down the aisle accompanied by her bridal party, which included Prince Harry's niece and nephew, Princess Charlotte and Prince George, as well as a group of adorable page boys and flower girls.

The Dress

Meghan's timeless and elegant wedding gown featured a bateau neckline, three-quarter sleeves, and a sleek silhouette that epitomized understated sophistication. The dress, with its intricate lace detailing and sweeping train, was hailed as a triumph of classic couture, perfectly complementing Meghan's natural beauty and grace.

The Ceremony

Led by the Dean of Windsor, the wedding ceremony was infused with personal touches that reflected the couple's values and beliefs. From the stirring rendition of "Stand by Me" by The Kingdom Choir to the inspiring address by Bishop Michael Curry, the ceremony was a celebration of love, inclusivity, and unity.

As Prince Harry and Meghan exchanged vows, the world watched with bated breath, moved by the sincerity and depth of their commitment to each other. Their vows, spoken with heartfelt emotion and unwavering devotion, resonated with audiences around the world, reaffirming the power of love to transcend boundaries and bring people together.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds embarked on a carriage procession through the streets of Windsor, greeting throngs of well-wishers who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the happy couple. The joyous atmosphere, punctuated by cheers and applause, reflected the universal outpouring of love and support for Prince Harry and Meghan.

The Reception

A lavish reception at Frogmore House provided an opportunity for the couple to celebrate with family and friends in a more intimate setting. From heartfelt speeches to lively music and dancing, the evening was filled with laughter, joy, and moments of pure magic as guests toasted the newlyweds and wished them a lifetime of happiness together.

The wedding guest list included members of the royal family, dignitaries, celebrities, and close friends of the bride and groom. From Queen Elizabeth II and the royal household to Oprah Winfrey and George Clooney, the guest list reflected the couple's diverse backgrounds and wide-ranging connections.

The Global Impact

Beyond the pomp and pageantry, the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had a profound impact on society, sparking conversations about race, identity, and the role of monarchy in the modern world. Meghan, as a biracial American actress, brought a fresh perspective to the royal family, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers in the process.

As Prince Harry and Meghan embarked on their journey as husband and wife, they carried with them the hopes and dreams of a generation. Their wedding day, a testament to their love and commitment, remains etched in the hearts of millions as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the future.