Lord Nigel Ashcombe, Duke of Wexley, and Miss Mary Smith shared with me the details of their upcoming nuptials...I offer their words below, as they shared them with me—modest, tender, and utterly sincere.

Charles was a master of his craft, known far and wide for his lush rose bushes and sprawling ivy. But there was one flower that had always eluded him—the delicate and elusive lady slipper orchid.

Millicent sighed. At sixty-two, she had weathered enough society storms to know that scandal was as inevitable in their circles as rain in an English spring. “And you’re certain it was him? The fog has been terribly thick these past evenings.”

As they ascended the stairs, she whispered, “Maybe the lamplighter will make you an offer.” Eugenie stopped, turning wide-eyed.

March 1853 Kent, England "My lady, if I may interfere," her maid stepped forward from behind the desk where Lady Mary Fontaine sat...

"Mary," he interrupted gently, "people here are far too concerned with appearances. There is nothing improper about feeding ducks."

What customs did the Victorians follow when courting? What could a woman say with her fan if she didn't want a man to approach?

His mother was coming in with a large plate of gingerbread men. His mouth watered as the aroma of the warm spices filled the air.

Thick fog shifted and swirled between the walls of the large stone house. A weak sun was feebly attempting to shine through