Sofia Hellqvist Glows At Gala Dinner Days Before Royal Wedding

Just days away from the most-awaited royal wedding in Sweden, former reality TV star Sofia Hellqvist -- the future Duchess of Varmland -- attended a royal gala dinner hosted at Stockholm Palace on Monday. The 30-year-old was joined by her fiancé Prince Carl Philip of Sweden. Looking elegant in a black gown, the future royal looked confident as she helped welcome India's President Pranab Mukherjee.

The bride-to-be's gown featured a full ruffled skirt and an embroidered floral bodice. Sofia paired the outfit with green oval drop earrings and swept her brunette hair into a neat low side bun. Prince Carl Philip, 36, stood by her side and gave her a tender look, according to Hello.

The couple joined King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia for the evening. Carl Philip’s older sister and the future queen, Crown Princess Victoria, and her husband Prince Daniel were also in attendance. The banquet was held at the palace’s Karl XI Gallery, which is where Carl Philip and Sofia will celebrate part of their wedding. On their big day, the newlyweds and their guests will have dinner in the palaces White Sea Hall, followed by dancing in the Karl XI Gallery.

The couple’s big day is a hotly anticipated event on the Swedish calendar. There is already speculation about what Sofia -- who is known to take style risks and looks amazing in couture gowns -- will wear. Hundreds of guests and millions of television viewers will watch the entire ceremony live June 13.

The grand affair -- Sweden’s third royal wedding in five years -- will see world stars like Swedish DJ Avicii and duo Icona Pop play at the party. Sofia, who has been in a relationship with her prince for five years, has said that her future in-laws have been very welcoming. Speaking recently in a joint interview with Carl Philip, the former reality TV contestant told Swedish news agency TT that she was definitely nervous before meeting her in-laws. “I think everyone is before they meet the royal family. But we’ve been together for so many years now, and I feel Carl Philip’s family has become my own.”