On January 5, 1956, Hollywood beauty Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier of Monaco announced their engagement from her family home in Philadelphia, marking the beginning of what many would call a fairy-tale romance. Exactly 68 years ago today, the world witnessed the union of two seemingly disparate worlds: the glitzy film industry and the regal life of European royalty. Grace’s father, Jack Kelly Sr., who had been known to disapprove of his daughter's previous suitors, declared, "The Prince is such a wonderful man and we are so happy."
At the time, Grace, fresh off her success as one of Hollywood's leading ladies, expressed her delight about the engagement, stating, "I liked everything about Prince Rainier. His simplicity completely captivated me. I can't speak any French, so I will obviously have to start taking lessons." The couple's romance had captivated the public, especially as they initially met during the Cannes Film Festival in 1955, when Grace was promoting her film The Country Girl. A charming serendipity brought them together, thanks to the divine intervention of the press, leading to her invitation for a photoshoot at the Prince's palace, which initiated their long-distance correspondence over the coming months.
Prince Rainier, 32 years old at the time, was equally thrilled about his engagement. "My people will be very happy to accept Grace as their princess," he proclaimed during their announcement. Their union soon became one of the most followed romances, not just for its regal significance but also for the transition of Grace Kelly from actress to Princess Grace.
The couple had two engagement rings, both exquisite examples of Cartier craftsmanship. The first was a stunning eternity band adorned with rubies and diamonds, symbolizing the national colors of Monaco. Shortly thereafter, they deemed her first ring unsuitable for Grace's role as Tracy Lord in her last film, High Society. Rather than wear a fake ring for the film, Prince Rainier gifted her with another breathtaking piece: a 10.48-carat emerald-cut diamond. The latter has gone down in history as not just hers but also as one of the most iconic engagement rings, inspiring future generations of brides. Vogue noted its legendary status, emphasizing its influence on rings worn by modern celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Amal Clooney.
After their engagement, preparations for the wedding began, and it was clear both the couple and Monaco were ready to celebrate. They exchanged vows on April 18, 1956, during a quiet civil ceremony held within the Palace of Monaco's throne room. The following day, they had their religious ceremony at Saint Nicholas Cathedral, where millions tuned in on television to celebrate the royal nuptials alongside 700 guests, including the likes of Aristotle Onassis, hotelier Conrad Hilton, and film legends Cary Grant and Ava Gardner. Grace arrived at the ceremony via boat from New York with her family, and upon disembarking, she was greeted by throngs of reporters and 1,800 photographers.
For the wedding, MGM gifted Grace two stunning wedding dresses crafted by costume designer Helen Rose. The religious ceremony featured an elaborate gown with a high neckline and intricately detailed lace bodice, admired by all present as the guests gasped at her beauty. Notably, Grace sported no tiara; instead, she chose to wear a delicate beaded Juliet cap adorned with 90 yards of tulle, skillfully crafted to keep her visage unobscured from the cameras. Her practicality was evident, altering the design of her attire to avoid overshadowing her prince. During the civil ceremony, she donned another sophisticated two-piece ensemble, which was also elegantly made from French Alençon lace.
The post-wedding celebrations were equally grand, with lively gatherings at the Hotel de Paris where guests indulged in culinary delights, including the iconic six-tiered wedding cake enshrined with the sugary replica of the Palace. The couple headed to the Prince's yacht, the Deo Juvante II, embarking on their seven-week Mediterranean honeymoon shortly after their wedding, filled with the dreams of their growing family.
Grace and Rainier welcomed three children: Princess Caroline, Prince Albert, and Princess Stéphanie. They enjoyed 26 years of marriage before tragedy struck on September 14, 1982, when Grace died following a car accident at the age of 52, which left Prince Rainier heartbroken. He never remarried and devoted himself to his royal duties until his own passing in 2005, at which time their son, Prince Albert, ascended the throne of Monaco. The story of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier remains firmly ensconced in the annals of history—a poignant reminder of fairy tales manifested through love and commitment against the odds.