© Maison du Grand-Duc / Sophie Margue
Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume has been a prominent public figure since birth and formally assumed his official duties at the age of 19.
In his twenties, he represented Luxembourg internationally while pursuing his studies. His 30th birthday marked a significant milestone in his life. As the Hereditary Grand Duke stated in a 2011 interview, "At 30, one enters a new phase of life, with more responsibilities and where one no longer really has the youth to excuse or view some things as naive."
In response to a deeply personal question about his relationship status, the direction of the following years became clear. When asked if he had a girlfriend, he revealed, "Yes, I have a girlfriend."
On 27 April 2012, it was officially announced that Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume was engaged to Countess Stéphanie de Lannoy. "I am very happy and proud to introduce my fiancée, Stéphanie, to the people of Luxembourg, and it is with great emotion and joy."
Engagement photos were taken, and the whole country began preparing for a royal wedding, which was not without its challenges. "It’s a strange feeling to see your face everywhere," Prince Guillaume remarked, but his future wife had a different view: "I’m delighted because I see Guillaume everywhere, even when he’s not beside me".
In love, engaged, married
On 20 October 2012, the couple tied the knot, bringing together Luxembourg's royal family and international royals to celebrate the occasion. The Grand Duke, a proud father, delivered an emotional speech at the gala dinner: "Observing you, there is no doubt. You are made for each other. Dear Guillaume, we are proud of you. You are a man of duty, and we will always be there to support you if you need us."
The emotions surrounding their wedding were filled with joy and anticipation for their future together.
In 2016, the Hereditary Grand Duke and his wife embarked on a significant joint project, De Main de Maître, which reflected their shared interests. "It has two facets – for my wife, it’s culture, and for me, more the economic aspect, and a few months ago, we asked ourselves, 'How can we bring craftsmanship to the forefront?'"
In 2018, the couple relocated to London for further education. "The idea of lifelong learning applies to everyone," Prince Guillaume remarked.
There were also sad moments. In April 2019, Grand Duke Jean passed away.
"For me personally, it is a great loss because my grandfather was always someone who had an open ear for all of us."
At the end of 2019, good news came: the Hereditary Grand Duke and Duchess were expecting a child. "It is, of course, an immense joy for both of us. We have been waiting for this moment for a long time, and now it has arrived."
On 10 May 2020, Prince Charles was born. The couple settled in Fischbach, where they had a wonderful start to family life despite the pandemic.
They are no longer just a family of three. In March 2023, more happy news came from the royal household: Prince François was born, completing the family’s happiness.
