Royal officials launch website for April wedding

[March 02, 2011]  LONDON (AP) -- They've got the carriage, the abbey and a national holiday in their honor. Now Prince William's marriage with Kate Middleton is getting what every young engaged couple really needs -- a wedding website.

Tech-savvy couples the world over set up websites to feature their nuptials. Such sites give guests a handy way to get directions, browse photos, buy gifts or even choose the music.

Although Internet users aren't likely to get much say in the royal reception's playlist, fans will find photos, updates, videos and more on a website that Prince William's office, St. James' Palace, says may be used to livestream the event itself..

On Wednesday much of the site seemed to consist of content from the royals' existing social media ventures, such as Buckingham Palace's Flickr account, Clarence House's Twitter page, the Royal Channel on YouTube and the British monarchy's Facebook site.

But officials are promising exclusive content about the wedding, including that most coveted detail of all -- details about Middleton's gown when they are made public.

St. James' Palace said the site was being hosted by Google App Engine, which is designed to handle large bursts of traffic. A spokeswoman declined to say how many visitors the site was expected to receive, although it seems safe to say that it will draw many more than the 1,900-odd guests expected at the ceremony.

The government has also launched a separate site intended to offer practical information for members of the public interested in taking part in celebrations for the wedding.

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Online:

http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/

http://www.direct.gov.uk/RoyalWedding/

[Associated Press; By RAPHAEL G. SATTER]

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