Royal sister-in-law Pippa takes spotlight in star-studded British wedding

Pippa Middleton and James Matthews kiss after their wedding at St Mark's Church in Englefield. Pippa Middleton is the sister of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.Reuters

Pippa Middleton, younger sister of Kate, Britain's Duchess of Cambridge, was married in a small English country church on Saturday surrounded by royals and celebrities but those hoping for a dash of Hollywood were left in the cold.

The event had been at risk of being overshadowed by the most high-profile appearance yet of Prince Harry's girlfriend, Meghan Markle. But the US actress failed to appear before cameras.

Prince George stands with other flower boys and girls after the wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews at St Mark's Church in EnglefieldReuters

Three-year-old Prince George, third in line to the throne after grandfather Charles and father William, took a starring role with his younger sister as attendants to the bride.

Middleton, 33, who married financier James Matthews, wore an elegant white lace gown with a cut-out in the back and a full long skirt. She arrived in a open-top car accompanied by her father, smiling broadly and waving to crowds gathered near St. Mark's church in Englefield, about 50 miles west of London.

Matthews sported a three-piece morning suit with a pale waistcoat and tails.

Pippa Middleton and James Matthews smile after their weddingReuters

Prince William walked up to the church accompanied by younger brother Harry. Celebrity guests included 18-times grand slam tennis champion Roger Federer and the fashion editor of British Vogue magazine.

Middleton took the spotlight by surprise when she acted as maid of honour at the 2011 wedding of her sister to William mainly due to her svelte figure, the back of which was captured by many a camera.

"Rear comes the bride," joked the Daily Star newspaper.