Less than a year after they started dating, Pippa Middleton's hedge fund manager boyfriend, James Matthews, popped the question during a romantic break in the Lake District last weekend. Pippa is said to be surprised and delighted by the news, as are Prince William and her sister, the Duchess of Cambridge.Â
 
James, who is the older brother of Made in Chelsea star Spencer Matthews, attended Eton with Prince Harry and Prince William, and is the chief executive of Eden Rock Capital Management Group. His parents own a hotel in St. Barths (sounds like the perfect wedding venue if you ask us).Â
The couple share a love of the outdoors, and are both avid skiers. After spending new year's at James' parents hotel, their romance has continued to blossom. They were spotted at Wimbledon last week looking blissfully happy, leading to speculation that a proposal could be on the horizon.Â
It is reported that James asked Pippa's father, Michael, for her hand in marriage before proposing (awwh! We love a traditionalist), and her parents are over the moon. We have a feeling that budget won't be a problem for this wedding, which is expected to go ahead sometime next year.Â
Congratulations to the happy couple - we can't wait for the wedding!
Photo credits: Pinterest.Â