Sam Chatto, the 29-year-old grandson of the late Princess Margaret, has announced his engagement to artist Eleanor “Ellie” Ekserdjian. Buckingham Palace confirmed the couple intends to marry in 2027. The news follows a years-long relationship between the two artists, who first met while studying at the University of Edinburgh.
The Engagement and Artistic Background
The engagement was made public on July 13, when Chatto shared three black-and-white photographs on Instagram. In his announcement, Chatto revealed a personal touch regarding the proposal, stating, “I am very happy to be able to tell you that Ellie and I have gotten engaged. We couldn’t be happier. I proposed with a porcelain ring that I made myself.”
Chatto, who is the eldest son of Lady Sarah Chatto and Daniel Chatto, works primarily as a ceramicist. Based in his workshop in West Sussex, he creates both functional pottery and clay sculptures. His professional background includes an apprenticeship with Japanese ceramicist Yagi Akira, marking a career path distinct from the formal duties often associated with the British royal family.
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Eleanor Ekserdjian is an accomplished artist in her own right. Her portfolio includes an abstract portrait of Chatto titled “SAM,” which was previously exhibited at The Gallery at Green & Stone in London.
Integration into the Royal Circle
While Sam Chatto sits 30th in the line of succession to the British throne, he holds no official royal title and performs no public duties on behalf of the monarchy. Despite this distance from the crown, he and Ekserdjian have become increasingly visible within the extended royal family’s social circle.
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The couple’s relationship first gained public attention in 2021. By the following year, they made a high-profile appearance together at the Tatler “Little Black Book” party in London. Since then, Ekserdjian has participated in key family events, including the traditional Christmas service at Sandringham in December 2024 and the wedding of Peter Phillips and Harriet Sperling in June 2026. According to Buckingham Palace, King Charles has expressed his support and happiness for the couple.
Royal Lineage and Family Connections
Sam Chatto is the grandson of Princess Margaret. His mother, Lady Sarah Chatto, is a cousin to King Charles. This lineage makes Sam Chatto a grandnephew of Queen Elizabeth II and a great-grandson of King George VI and the Queen Mother.
Though he maintains a private life, Chatto’s connections remain strong. He was recently documented meeting Queen Sonja of Norway at Oscarshall in Oslo in May 2025. His transition toward marriage in 2027 marks a significant milestone for the Chatto family, bridging his professional life as a craftsman with his place in the broader history of the British royal family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sam Chatto?
Sam Chatto is the grandson of Princess Margaret and the eldest son of Lady Sarah Chatto. He is a professional ceramicist and stands 30th in the line of succession to the British throne.
When is the wedding scheduled?
Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the wedding is planned for the spring of 2027.
Does Sam Chatto have royal duties?
No. Chatto does not hold a royal title and does not perform official duties on behalf of the British royal family.
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