30 May 2023 , 10:18
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Prince Harry fell head in heels for Meghan Markle, but he wanted to make sure he had the time and space to get to know her properly before telling the world about their love.
They enjoyed months of private dates and holidays, making memories as they learnt about each other's lives.
But once he knew she was The One, it was time to introduce her to his friends - and of course, his royal family.
First up were Harry’s cousin Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank, who Harry is extremely close to.
But the most important meeting - the Queen - came as a bit of a surprise.
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Meghan's first meeting with the Queen came long before the couple went public with their relationship (Splash News)Before the big introduction, Harry wanted Meghan to meet other members of the family and started with his aunt Sarah Ferguson.
However on their way to Windsor Lodge, which Fergie shares with ex-husband Prince Andrew, he got a message which changed everything - and resulted in a slightly awkward conversation with Meghan.
In his book Spare Harry recalls being told the Queen was also at the house, so Meghan would meet her without any time to prepare.
The Queen had popped in on her way back from church, dressed up in one of her finest outfits. With little knowledge of the inner workings of the family, Meghan didn’t think this was a big deal as she was just meeting her boyfriend’s grandmother - but Harry had to correct her.
He writes: “I asked if she knew how to curtsey. She said she thought so. But she also couldn’t tell if I was serious.”
Harry told her she was going to meet the Queen, and she replied: “I know, but she’s your grandmother.” Harry then said: “But she’s the Queen.”
Meghan only carried out a handful of engagements with the late Monarch before quitting the royal family (Getty Images)Thankfully, Fergie was on hand to provide some last minute training when they pulled into the driveway.
She came out the front, asked if Meghan knew how to curtsey and when she said know, gave her a very quick lesson.
They also gave her a quick etiquette lesson in terms of how to address her (Your Majesty on the first occasion and then Ma’am).
Despite the last minute stress, Meghan did everything perfectly.
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Harry describes her debut curtsey as “deep” and “flawless”.
During the brief visit they discussed Meghan’s visit to the UK and her work in Canada.
The Queen also asked what Meghan thought of Donald Trump, but she quickly changed the subject.