The youngest of the Cambridge royals, Prince Louis, who peacefully snoozed away in his mother’s arms, was at the heart of another major royal event yesterday – his very own christening.
It was the first time that the family of five stepped out all together since the birth of Prince Louis on 23rd April, and the first appearance of the Duchess herself in around a month, who’s been on maternity leave from royal engagements over the last few weeks.
Prince William and Kate Middleton arrived at the Chapel Royal at St James’ Palace in London with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, looking every inch the adorable young family that they are.
The Duchess of Cambridge looked radiant in a white Alexander McQueen dress – the same designer she chose for her wedding dress as well as the christenings of her other two children – and white hat by Jane Taylor. She couldn’t stop smiling down at the cute bundle of joy in her arms, who wore a replica of the intricate lace and satin robe made for Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter in 1841, which was also worn by Prince Louis’s brother and sister for their christenings.
The ceremony was conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, who also officiated Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding last May.
Only a handful of guests were invited to the private event – particularly immediate family and close friends, including Prince Charles and Camilla, Kate’s parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, her brother James Middleton, and sister Pippa Middleton, together with her husband, James Matthews. The most notable absentees were Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, who were reportedly tied up with a hectic schedule of events.
Closely following the arrival of the Cambridge family were Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The Duchess of Sussex looked elegant in an olive green dress by Ralph Lauren and matching accessories, as did Prince Harry on the occasion of his nephew’s baptism. The ever-proud uncle reportedly gifted Prince Louis with a first edition Winnie The Pooh book for his christening, which cost close to €10,000, and is believed to be a tribute to Princess Diana, who read bedtime classics to Prince Harry when he was a child, the memories of which are immensely dear to the royal.
The ceremony was followed by an afternoon tea at the Palace, where guests were served, among other things, fruit cake from the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
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