The reason why Meghan Markle is not having a maid of honor

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are a pretty untraditional royal couple, and their wedding on May 19 will reflect that. In fact, the bride-to-be has ditched the notion of having a maid of honor on her big day in the way that Pippa Middleton was there for Kate Middleton at her wedding, according to a palace spokesman.

The reason for forgoing a maid of honor is quite sweet: Markle has many close girl friends and did not want to choose just one to be by her side during the wedding.

“She has a very close-knit circle of friends and she didn’t want to choose one over another,” a palace spokesperson said. “All have been actively involved in helping her prepare for the day and will be there in the days beforehand. She’s very happy to have their support.”

Prince Harry, however, will be accompanied by his brother, the Duke of Cambridge, who will serve as best man.

There is one tradition the bride isn’t skipping out on, however, and that is having her father walk her down the aisle, according to a press release from the palace.

“Both of the bride’s parents will have important roles in the wedding,” the press release read. “Ms. Markle is delighted to have her parents by her side on this important and happy occasion.”

On the morning of the wedding, her mother, Doria Ragland, will ride by car with her daughter, and Markle’s dad, Thomas Markle, will walk her up the aisle to meet her prince. How sweet!

Ragland lives in California, while Thomas Markle lives in Mexico. The bride-to-be’s parents will be coming to the UK to spend time with Prince Harry’s family before the wedding and get to know each other. According to the press release:

“Mr. Thomas Markle and Ms. Doria Ragland will be arriving in the UK in the week of the wedding, allowing time for Prince Harry’s family, including The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, and The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, to spend time with them before the big day.”

Who else is excited to watch in the early morning hours (here in America, at least) on May 19? We know we’ll be watching the televised event!