Princess Margaret’s grandson, Sam Chatto, 29, has announced his engagement to artist Eleanor Ekserdjian, also 29. Chatto proposed with a unique porcelain ring he crafted himself. The couple, who began their romance after Ekserdjian began depicting Chatto in her artwork in 2021, are planning to marry next spring. Ekserdjian's presence at Sandringham last Christmas, a privilege not afforded to Catherine Middleton until after her wedding, suggests an early welcome into the Royal Family.
Chatto, whose mother is Lady Sarah Chatto and a first cousin to King Charles, comes from an artistic family. His father, Daniel Chatto, is an actor-turned-artist, and his mother has exhibited paintings at the Royal Academy. A family member expressed joy, stating, "Everyone is over the moon." King Charles has reportedly been informed and is "is very happy" for the couple.
In other celebratory news, Nic Collins, 25, son of musician Phil Collins, is engaged to Isabella Cristina Serralles. The couple has been together for nearly a decade. Nic, also a drummer like his father, is the half-brother of actress Lily Collins. Phil Collins, 75, has been facing health challenges, including neck and spine surgery, which have impacted his ability to perform.
Princess Alexandra is also celebrating the birth of her first great-grandchild. Her granddaughter, Flora Vesterberg (née Ogilvy), 31, and her husband Timothy Vesterberg, 32, welcomed a baby girl named Isabel. Flora, an art historian, married the Swedish hockey player-turned-financier in 2020. Flora shared her joy, stating, "Timothy and I are overjoyed and full of love for her."
Amidst these personal milestones, there are also mentions of escalating costs for major events. Sam Palmer, the husband of Petra Ecclestone and son-in-law of Bernie Ecclestone, expressed frustration with ticket prices and general expenses at the World Cup in the U.S., describing them as "utter bo*****s" and noting the high cost of economy flights for upcoming matches. Separately, celebrity chef Raymond Blanc is set to host a fundraising dinner at King Charles's Dumfries House, with tickets priced at £250 per head.