The marriage of the Duke of Windsor, previously known as King Edward VIII, to Wallis Simpson marked a significant moment in royal and social history. After abdicating the British throne in December 1936, Edward chose love over duty, deciding to marry Wallis, an American socialite who had been twice divorced. Their union was controversial, immediately attracting public attention due to the scandal surrounding Simpson's marital history, which was viewed as incompatible with the expectations of the British monarchy. The couple's decision to marry outside of traditional royal expectations symbolized a shift in social norms regarding marriage and personal choice during the early 20th century.

The wedding ceremony was held on June 3, 1937, at the Château de Candé in France. This setting was chosen for its privacy, allowing the couple to avoid the public scrutiny that a royal wedding would typically attract. The event was attended by a small group that included close friends and family, a stark contrast to the lavish ceremonies often associated with the British royal family. The simplicity of the ceremony and the absence of formal royal trappings further emphasized the couple's desire to break from convention and live life on their own terms. While Edward took on the title of Duke of Windsor, he and Wallis faced ongoing challenges regarding their status and acceptance in society.