Photo: Getty Images
Pippa Middleton is now an engaged and to-be wedded lady and we couldn’t be more excited for this royally-related wedding. Will Middleton follow in her big sister’s steps and wear a truly epic Oscar de la Renta wedding dress? Will the Queen make the guest list? Will the Duchess of Cambridge take on royal bridesmaid duties? Woah, sorry. We’re getting a little ahead of ourselves, aren’t we? First thing’s first: Who the heck is Middleton marrying? We previously reported that the lucky groom is Middleton’s sweetheart, James Matthews. But what else do we know about the guy besides the fact that he has some truly excellent taste in jewelry? (Have you seen the bride-to-be’s vintage-style engagement ring??!) Well, after a bit of sleuthing, we have a pretty good picture of the guy who is about to become related to royalty. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Pippa Middleton and her new fiancé have a bit of a history
This new “It” couple started off as friends, before briefly dating back in 2012, according to ABC. Middleton then began a relationship with financier Nico Jackson. Three years later, they broke it off and Middleton became one of the most eligible bachelorettes in England. And soon enough in August 2015, Middleton and Matthews were back together. Last New Year’s, they were seen sunning at Matthews’ family’s resort in St. Barts, and six months later Matthews put a ring on it!
2. James Matthews is the middle child in a pretty posh family.
In fact, Matthews younger brother Spencer Matthews is a reality TV celeb, starring in the popular British show Made in Chelsea, which chronicles the lives of London socialites. Tragically, Matthews’ older brother passed away back in 1999 on Mount Everest, after becoming the youngest Brit to ever reach the summit.
3. He’s hella smart…
10 years ago, the accomplished entrepreneur launched a hedge fund, Eden Rock Capital Management Group, and is currently serving as their CEO. So, that’s how he could afford that mega-watt rock on Middleton’s finger!
4. And a total jock!
This soon-to-be bride and groom both share a serious love of sports. (Really though, how cute is that?!) They are both accomplished tennis players and were recently spotted in the Wimbledon stands. And last year, Middleton and Matthews competed in both a Swedish 50-mile swim-and-track race and a cross-country ski race in Norway. Okay, obviously there are no wedding diets are needed for these two…
5. He attended the same boarding school as his future royal brother-in-law.
According to People, Matthews, Prince William, and Prince Harry all attended Eton College, a private boarding school for boys in Windsor, England. Too cool, right?
See More: Kate Middleton Just Re-Wore Something from Her Wedding Day — And Totally Rocked It