Julia Melchior

Few occasions have the power to thrill us like a royal wedding. This spring, the world watched as Prince William and Kate Middleton exchanged their vows. Both as public events and personal milestones, these ceremonies are storybook endings--and bright beginnings. Whether she carries the charisma of Sweden's Crown Princess Victoria or the allure of Lady Di, each bride is a living fairytale. And on the 29th of April, 2011, Princess Catherine joined the tradition of royal beauties. Of course, we mustn't overlook the royal grooms--every prince from Felipe to Rainier is a legendary knight in arms. Royal weddings provide the opportunity for nations to celebrate their age-old customs. These grand events embody a young couple's love, and a country's faith in its own future.