Carole Middleton has been described as a "mastermind" in her daughter Pippa's romance with fiancé, James Matthews.
Mrs Middleton, whose other daughter is the Duchess of Cambridge, is said to be thrilled that the couple are marrying after almost a decade of speculation surrounding their relationship.
One friend said Miss Middleton's mother confided several years ago that she hoped they would give it a serious go. "This is something she has hoped for for quite some time," said one associate. "She appears to be something of a mastermind in making this happen."
![Pippa and her fiance, James Matthews. Photo / Getty](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/FHQQCUPYGI6QM3RQ3EBB3KQNMM.jpg?auth=78a38bb0cc8b221deed84c81ada4fbda4ac029d07d665bdb10aee52072b04c2a&width=16&height=9&quality=70&smart=true)
Mr Matthews, 40, a hedge fund manager, reportedly proposed after arranging a meeting with Mrs Middleton, undoubtedly seeking permission for her daughter's hand.