When Peter Phillips marries Harriet Sperling this weekend, many eyes will be on the expected royal guests gathering in Gloucestershire.
But among those likely to attend is a little-known member of Princess Anne’s extended family who has largely remained out of the spotlight throughout her life.
Stephanie Phillips, the daughter of Anne’s former husband Captain Mark Phillips and his second wife Sandy Pflueger, shares a close bond with Peter and his sister Zara Tindall despite not being widely known to royal watchers.
The 28-year-old, who grew up on the Gatcombe Estate in Gloucestershire, has maintained a notably private life away from the public attention that often follows her older half-siblings.
Although she is not a member of the Royal Family, Stephanie has long been part of the close-knit family circle surrounding Princess Anne, Peter and Zara. Over the years, she has appeared at a number of major family occasions, including Peter’s first wedding to Autumn Phillips in 2008 and Zara’s marriage to Mike Tindall in 2011, where she served as a flower girl.
Despite a significant age gap, Stephanie has remained close to both of her half-siblings. Social media posts shared in previous years offered rare glimpses into their relationship, with Stephanie describing Peter as “the best big brother” and sharing photographs of family celebrations.
Like her father and Zara, Stephanie also developed a passion for horses and has built a career in the equestrian world. After studying Business Management at the University of Worcester, she has competed in eventing competitions across the country while largely avoiding public attention.
Stephanie herself celebrated a family wedding in 2022 when she married William Hosier at St Mary the Virgin Church in Tetbury. The occasion brought together much of Princess Anne’s family, including Peter, Zara, Mike Tindall and Anne herself, who watched as Captain Mark Phillips walked his daughter down the aisle.
Now attention is turning to Peter’s forthcoming marriage to NHS nurse Harriet Sperling, which is expected to take place at All Saints Church in Kemble on Saturday.
Peter Phillips, the son of Anne, Princess Royal and Captain Mark Phillips, announced his engagement to NHS nurse Harriet Sperling last year after their relationship became public in 2024.
According to reports, the King and Queen are expected to be among the guests as the royal family gathers to celebrate the occasion.
The wedding will take place just hours before Their Majesties are due to attend Derby Day at Epsom Downs, where they will watch the running of the Betfred Derby as part of a longstanding royal tradition.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are also expected to attend the ceremony, potentially accompanied by their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
The wedding marks a significant moment for Phillips, who is the eldest grandchild of the late Elizabeth II and has largely remained outside the spotlight despite his close ties to the Royal Family.
Harriet Sperling has increasingly appeared alongside Peter at public events over the past two years and has been warmly welcomed into royal circles. She joined members of the Royal Family at several high-profile engagements, including Royal Ascot and charity events, following the public confirmation of their relationship.
