Upon marrying Prince William in 2011, Kate Middleton stepped into the role of a key figure in the British Royal Family. As she adapted to her responsibilities as the Duchess of Cambridge and later the Princess of Wales, the late Queen Elizabeth II provided essential guidance during public engagements and royal duties.
Building a Close Bond
Kate first encountered the Queen in 2008 and cultivated a strong relationship with her before the monarch’s passing in 2022. Royal author Russell Myers highlights that the Queen embraced a mentoring role from the outset of Kate’s romance with William. “Right from the off, the Queen was really interested in Catherine as a person, and really interested in being able to support her and mentor her as well,” Myers stated in an interview promoting his book, William & Catherine: The Intimate Inside Story.
Their partnership extended far beyond lending jewelry for Kate’s wedding. In March 2019, Kate accompanied the Queen on her first solo royal outing, nearly eight years after the April 2011 ceremony. Myers notes a genuine sense of the Queen watching over Kate, including private conversations where she shared insights on managing headstrong husbands, drawing from her own experiences. Kate deeply valued this wisdom and support.
Pre-Wedding Guidance
Ahead of the wedding, Kate met privately with the Queen at Buckingham Palace over tea and finger sandwiches. Rather than delving into event logistics, the Queen focused on reassuring the future royal. A former courtier recalls the monarch offering encouragement for Kate’s emerging senior role and practical advice on handling assertive spouses.
William, known among staff and family for his approachable nature—preferring his first name over formal titles—could also be straightforward when directing tasks.
Jewelry Loans Symbolize Support
The Queen loaned Kate the iconic Cartier Halo tiara for her wedding day, an 18th birthday gift from the Queen Mother. This marked the only time Kate wore that piece, but she has frequently borrowed other treasured items since.
At a 2017 state banquet honoring King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, Kate donned a ruby floral necklace originally presented to the Queen by her parents as a wedding gift. She also wore the Queen’s diamond bracelet, a gift from Prince Philip, in 2015, along with the Lover’s Knot tiara—previously adorned by Princess Diana—and various other pieces over the years.
