Who is Harriet Sperling? The NHS nurse set to marry into the royal family

A new name is quietly gaining attention in royal circles, and her recent appearance at Windsor has only added to the intrigue.

Harriet Sperling stepped into the spotlight over Easter as she joined Peter Phillips for a church service at Windsor Castle, marking one of her most prominent appearances yet alongside the royal family.

Her presence at the traditionally low-key gathering, often seen as a family occasion rather than a formal engagement, has sparked fresh curiosity about the woman preparing to marry into the monarchy.

Sperling is engaged to Peter Phillips, the son of Princess Anne and grandson of Queen Elizabeth II. The couple announced their engagement in August 2025 and are set to marry on June 6 in a private ceremony in Gloucestershire.

Unlike many figures linked to the royal family, Sperling comes from outside aristocratic circles. Born Harriet Eleanor Sander, she works as a paediatric nurse specialist for the NHS, focusing on early childhood development.

She is also a mother to a teenage daughter, Georgina, whom she has raised as a single parent. In past writings, Sperling has reflected on that journey, describing it as one shaped by resilience, faith and a deep sense of responsibility.

Over the past year, she has gradually become a more familiar face at high-profile events, including appearances at the Badminton Horse Trials and Royal Ascot. She has also been seen spending time with extended members of the family, including Zara Tindall, suggesting she is already settling into royal life.

Her Easter appearance, however, marks a noticeable shift.

Appearing alongside both her daughter and Peter Phillips’ daughters from his previous marriage, Sperling seemed firmly integrated into the wider family dynamic, offering a glimpse of what her future role may look like.

With her wedding now just weeks away, interest in Sperling is expected to grow, as she transitions from a relatively private life into one increasingly in the public eye.