How They MetAt this point in her career, Kelly was one of the highest paid and most respected actresses in the world. In 1955, she was asked to join the United States Delegation Committee at the Cannes Film Festival in France. During a photo shoot, she met Prince Rainier III of Monaco, who happened to be seeking a bride. If he didn't produce an heir, Monaco would become part of France. The press glamorized their courtship, depicting it as a fairy tale romance. A year later, their wedding date was set.
The "Fairy tale" WeddingShe married Prince Rainier on April 19, 1956, in a very public and ornate ceremony, Kelly abandoned her acting career in order to become Princess Consort of Monaco. She was also required to give up her American citizenship, and Prince Rainier banned her films in Monaco.Grace Kelly's wedding gown was designed by Helen Rose, who had dressed her in High Society and The Swan.
The gown was the most expensive dress that Rose had ever made. The dress was known as one of the most elegant and ornate in history. It consisted of a rounded collar, full skirt of ivory peau de soie, and a fitted bodice made from Brussels lace embroidered with seed pearls. The lace was over a century old and had flower designs in it. 25 yards of silk taffeta and 100 yards of silk net were used in the construction of the dress. |
Her Life as a RoyalThe royal couple had three children: Princess Caroline, Prince Albert, and Princess Stéphanie. Despite many attempts by filmmakers to lure Princess Grace back into the film industry, she resisted, embracing her role as a leader of Monaco. She became very involved in many cultural and charitable organizations over the course of her life. Unlike many royal marriages, her marriage with Prince Rainier was happy and joyous, she loved him, and put a lot of effort into Monaco.
Though some believe she deeply missed her acting career, she often spoke of the many problems afflicting the film industry: "Hollywood amuses me. Holier-than-thou for the public and unholier-than-the-devil in reality." |