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.
Picture by
i-images
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.