"There is very clear direction from the couple themselves, and it is being very closely looked after by the household." a spokesman tells PEOPLE about the ongoing plans for the couple's big day in April. "Prince William's household is taking a lead on this."
So who is included in the household? Taking the lead is William's private secretary, Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, 50. The former army officer was brought to the Palace by Prince Charles five years ago and has been influential as Princes William and Harry planned their careers in the Armed Forces.
Helen Asprey is also closely involved. As the Princes' personal secretary, she has been organizing their lives for a decade. In the early days that meant setting up their shooting weekends and personal appointments. More recently, she was seen in the background as William and Kate stepped in front of the cameras at the state apartments of St. James's Palace.
Asprey was also at Kate's side when the bride-to-be paid a visit to Westminster Abbey – a visit shortly followed by official confirmation that the wedding would be held there. (Also present: Lowther-Pinkerton and one of Prince Charles's former aides who now has a senior post at the Abbey.)
Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton and Prince William
Tim Graham / Getty
Meanwhile, Kate is likely to be learning on her sister, Pippa, 27, and mother Carole, 55, for advice in big decisions (including a dress!). Some have suggested that Pippa will be a lady-in-waiting when Kate needs one, and will mostly likely be the maid of honor at the wedding.
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