Prince William and Princess Kate prepare to mark Prince Louis’ christening
Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton are likely feeling sentimental today as they mark a special milestone in their family’s journey, the seventh anniversary of Prince Louis’ christening.
On July 9, 2018, the couple’s youngest child, who turned seven in April, was christened in a beautiful ceremony steeped in royal tradition and surrounded by family at the Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace in London.
His parents no doubt hold fond memories of the event.
Prince William and Princess Kate mark Prince Louis’ christening
The intimate ceremony included the presence of then-Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall (now King Charles and Queen Camilla), as well as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who had recently wed.
Louis’ older siblings, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, were also in attendance. Kate’s parents, Michael and Carole Middleton and her siblings James and Pippa rounded out the guest list.
The christening was also an opportunity for the royal couple to announce Prince Louis’ six godparents. Each one was chosen from close friends and family members.
They included Nicholas van Cutsem, Guy Pelly, Harry Aubrey-Fletcher, Lady Laura Meade, Mrs. Robert Carter, and Kate’s cousin Lucy Middleton, all of whom were present on the day.
Royal tradition
In keeping with royal tradition, Louis wore a handmade replica of the historic Royal Christening Robe. The robe was originally created in 1841 and worn by generations of royals, including the late Queen Elizabeth II. The replica was crafted by the Queen’s personal dressmaker, Angela Kelly. It was first commissioned by Queen Elizabeth in 2008 to preserve the original heirloom.
Prince Louis was also baptised using the Lily Font. This silver-gilt font has been used for royal baptisms since it was commissioned by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1840. The font was filled with holy water from the River Jordan, another longstanding tradition.
The family later gathered in the gardens of Clarence House, King Charles and Queen Camilla’s official London residence, for a private celebration.
Guests were served slices of a tier from William and Kate’s 2011 wedding cake, continuing another royal custom.
Surprise photo of the young prince
A week after the official portraits were released, royal fans were treated to a surprise bonus photo of Prince Louis. The image showed the little prince flashing a wide grin in the arms of his mother, Princess Kate. It was taken by family photographer Matt Porteous.
Although it had initially been intended for private use, the image was deemed too precious not to share.
Kensington Palace released the photo along with a message: “Their Royal Highnesses hope that everyone enjoys this lovely photograph of Prince Louis as much as they do.”
Matt, who previously photographed Prince George’s third birthday portraits, reflected on the special moment.
“Moments like these,” he wrote on Instagram. “It was an honour and a privilege to photograph the christening of Prince Louis. Overwhelmed by the love and support. It’s an image that has touched so many hearts. Thank you for all the comments and support.”
Meanwhile, Prince William is also preparing for official duties this week.
The future King is set to fly to Switzerland to cheer on the England team in their UEFA Women’s Euro match against the Netherlands.
