A FORMER reality TV star and model became the first commoner for centuries to become a Swedish princess when she married Prince Carl Philip today.

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

Hellqvist, 30, has worked as a topless model, a yoga instructor and works for charity.

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

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

The pair reportedly first met at a restaurant in 2010.

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."

The royal family has emphasised her charity work, including setting up an organisation to help disadvantaged children in South Africa.