Pippa Middleton's Proposal Wasn't as Public as Kate's, but It'll Still Put You in a Good Mood

Before we get to experience all the excitement and glamour of Pippa Middleton's wedding next month (we especially can't wait to see Prince George and Princess Charlotte fulfill their duties during the ceremony), we're detailing her romantic engagement story. Pippa got engaged to her on-and-off love, financier James Matthews, on Sunday, July 17, 2016.

Pippa and James spent that weekend in the Lake District of England, a popular vacation destination roughly 90 miles from London. During a walk up to the top of a hill, the couple stopped to enjoy the view and catch their breath. While taking in the scenery, James reportedly got down on one knee, pulled a diamond ring from his pocket, and asked Pippa to marry him.

The Daily Mail reported that James asked permission from Pippa's father, Michael Middleton, before popping the question; an insider added that "James is a traditionalist and very much wanted to do things properly." A Middleton family friend remarked that Pippa was "completely and totally surprised" by the proposal but accepted it immediately.

Pippa was presented with an Art Deco-inspired Asscher-cut diamond ring set in the middle of an octagonal halo of sparkling channel-set diamond. The day after the exciting proposal, she and James released a joint statement confirming the news: "Miss Pippa Middleton and Mr. James Matthews are delighted to announce they became engaged on Sunday, July 17 and plan to marry next year." Pippa and Kate's father, Michael, followed up by telling the Press Association that he and his wife Carole could not be happier. "Carole and I are absolutely thrilled with the news," he said. "They make a wonderful couple and we wish them every happiness together." Kate and Prince William followed suit with a congratulatory message of their own: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are absolutely delighted with the news," Kensington Palace announced.