KATE MIDDLETON
DESPITE HER MANY ROYAL OBLIGATIONS, THE DUCHESS WORKS HARD TO MAKE HOLIDAY MAGIC FOR HER FAMILY
How the duchess is making sure her family gets the full royal treatment for the holidays.
Long before Prince George’s and Princess Charlotte’s schools let out for the holiday recess, preparations have begun at Anmer Hall for the arrival of Kate Middleton, Prince William and their children. The staff decorates with festive garland and twinkle lights and stocks the pantry with everything that Kate could need to bake Christmas treats. By the time the family arrives at their country home, it blazes with cheer ready to welcome guests.
A TIME FOR FAMILY
Though Christmas Eve and Day will be taken up with pomp and pageantry, Kate, 36, feels it’s important to re-create the simpler holiday traditions she grew up with for George, 5, Charlotte, 3, and Louis, 8 months. “She has already taken George and Charlotte shopping to buy gifts for each other and their little brother, Louis,” says an insider.
In the days leading up to Santa’s arrival, she plans to bake homemade cookies. “She usually limits George and Charlotte’s sweets intake, but this year she’ll be surprising them with mini stockings full of treats,” says the insider. “George loves sweets!”
A few days before Christmas, William, Kate and the kids will sit down to an intimate dinner to celebrate the season. “Kate is surprising her family with a special home-cooked meal,” says the insider, who adds that the kids will help her cook. “They love getting their hands messy!”
Kate, William and their brood may also be joined by Prince Harry, 34, and his bride, Meghan Markle, 37, who — despite rumors of a rift — are expected to be houseguests at Anmer Hall over the holiday. “Christmas,” says the insider, “is really a big family affair for the royals.”
“The children still believe in Santa Claus.” — a royals insider