Princess Catherine, also known as the Princess of Wales, is gearing up for her birthday on Tuesday this week.
As she turns 42, the Princess and her family are expected to celebrate the occasion surrounded by loved ones in the regal surroundings of Windsor.
In a special gesture, King Charles has planned a birthday gift for his beloved daughter-in-law that could potentially elevate her status within the royal ranks.
Speculations are rife in royal circles that Princess Catherine may be appointed as a Royal Lady of the Order of the Garter, a prestigious title dating back almost 700 years.
This appointment, personally chosen by the monarch, would solidify her seniority and place within the royal family.
If these speculations hold true, Princess Catherine would join an illustrious company of individuals who have held the esteemed position of Royal Knight.
Furthermore, there is talk that both Princess Catherine and her husband, Prince William, may be granted the power to issue their own royal warrants for the first time.
This birthday promotion promises to be a splendid chapter in Princess Catherine’s life, celebrating not only her remarkable journey but also her unwavering commitment to family and duty.
It is evident that she shares a close bond with King Charles, perhaps even closer than her husband, Prince William.
Last year, King Charles and Queen Camilla took to social media to wish Princess Catherine a happy birthday, accompanied by a thoughtful photo choice.
The image selected was from Catherine’s first visit to Wales with Prince William after they were bestowed with the titles of Prince and Princess of Wales.
In the photo, she can be seen smiling as she accepts a bouquet from two-year-old Charlotte Bunting, who was dressed in a traditional Welsh costume.
Princess Catherine has previously marked her 40th birthday by sharing three new portraits, taken by photographer Paolo Roversi.
These portraits have become a part of the permanent collection at the National Portrait Gallery, where she serves as a patron.
It is anticipated that similar commemorations will take place this year.
In addition to well-wishes from military groups and charities she supports, Westminster Abbey in London is set to ring their bells in honor of the Princess’s birthday on Tuesday.
This tradition, which previously celebrated the birthdays of 12 senior members of the Royal family, has been altered due to financial constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moving forward, the bells will ring for the four most senior royal birthdays: Princess Catherine on January 9, Prince William on June 21, Queen Camilla on July 17, and King Charles on November 14.
They will also chime on June 15 for Trooping the Colour, the King’s public birthday celebrations, as well as other significant royal occasions such as the coronation anniversary on May 6.
In previous years, Catherine and William have attended Mass at St. Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk during their birthday weekends.
This is the same location where the Royal family recently celebrated Christmas.
As Princess Catherine prepares to celebrate her special day, it is evident that she is not only cherished by her family but also holds a significant place within the hearts of the British public.
Her dedication to her role as a member of the royal family, along with her commitment to various charitable causes, has endeared her to many.