An ex-reality TV star is set to become the first "commoner" for centuries to become a Swedish princess when she marries Prince Carl Philip.

Sofia Hellqvist, 30, has worked as a topless model, later becoming a yoga instructor and working for charity.

Her fiance, 36-year-old Carl Philip, is third in line to the Swedish throne.

Half a million are expected to line the streets of Stockholm for the event, despite polls suggesting the Swedish royal family's popularity is waning.

The pair reportedly first met at a restaurant in 2010, with news of their relationship being revealed soon after.

The Swedish media made much of Ms Hellqvist's past, which includes posing with a boa constrictor and an appearance on the reality show Paradise Hotel, in which scantily dressed singletons compete to stay in a luxury hotel.

In response, Ms Hellqvist told Swedish television she had long since moved on.

"I don't regret anything. All these experiences have made me the person I am. I wouldn't have made those choices today."

Amid rumours that her past had caused disquiet among the royal family, the palace has emphasised her charity work, which includes setting up a charity to help disadvantaged children in South Africa.

(BBC)