Because of Bertie's previous sexual indiscretion with Nellie Clifden, which had worried his parents who were afraid he had inherited the immoral tendencies of his Hanoverian forebears, Albert and Victoria were agreed that an early marriage was essential for Bertie and his future wife must be beautiful enough to keep his attention, and his morals, at home. Albert had seen a photograph of Alexandra and was very enthusiastic - when decrying Bertie's escapade he even worried that Alexandra's parents might reject Bertie for his immorality (he over-reacted dreadfully in fact). Although things were put on hold as Albert died soon after this (Victoria blamed his death at least partly on the distress Bertie's behaviour undeniably caused him), the proposed match had the approval of Albert and thus became even more sanctified, so Victoria pursued this as a high priority when her first immediate grief had passed.
The couple met in Belgium under the aegis of King Leopold, to see whether they liked one another. Vicky was there too, to provide detailed reports on Alexandra and her family for QV, who was too overwhelmed to travel abroad on this sort of errand. The couple decided they could get on, Bertie was impressed with Alexandra's beauty, Vicky made a favourable report, and QV agreed the match should proceed. Bertie was keen to set up his own establishment and become independent. Alexandra was a well-brought-up princess and prepared to fall in love with the heir to the throne of Great Britain. They became fond enough of one another, but love match it was not.
