Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Share Unforgettable Photos of Princess Lilibet on Her 3rd Birthday
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, are celebrating a special milestone for their daughter, Princess Lilibet. Although Lilibet’s third birthday falls on June 4, the family got the festivities started early with a pre-birthday bash over the weekend at their home in Montecito, California. PEOPLE confirms that the event was attended by close friends and family, as well as some of Lilibet’s friends.
Princess Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor was born in California in 2021, after Prince Harry and Meghan had stepped back from their royal roles and relocated to Meghan’s home state in the United States. The couple made this significant move with their son, Prince Archie, who is now five years old.
Lilibet’s birth was announced through the Archewell Foundation website, revealing that she was named after Queen Elizabeth’s family nickname, “Lilibet.” Her middle name, Diana, was chosen to honor her beloved late grandmother, the Princess of Wales.
Since her birth, the Duke and Duchess have affectionately called their daughter Lili, a nickname that has stuck within the family. The couple’s use of royal titles for their children was first publicly acknowledged in March 2023 when PEOPLE exclusively reported on the christening announcement for Lilibet. Following King Charles’s ascension to the throne in September 2022, both Archie and Lilibet were granted the titles of prince and princess, respectively.
The royal family’s official website was promptly updated to reflect the new titles of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Furthermore, these titles are used in their parents’ biographies on the Sussexes’ official website, which launched in February.
Around this time, it was also revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan have adopted the last name Sussex for their children, following the traditional practice used by members of the royal family.
The decision to use their titles as last names underscores the Duke and Duchess’s intent to blend their royal heritage with their new life in the United States. The couple’s commitment to maintaining their children’s royal connections is evident, even as they navigate their independent path away from the core royal duties.
Lilibet’s pre-birthday celebration in Montecito exemplifies the Sussexes’ dedication to creating joyful and memorable experiences for their children.
The intimate gathering allowed Lilibet to celebrate with those closest to the family, ensuring a warm and personal occasion. The use of their home for the celebration highlights the importance of privacy and comfort in their family life.
The choice to celebrate early also underscores the flexibility and freedom the Sussex family now enjoys, free from the stringent schedules and formalities of royal engagements. This new lifestyle allows them to focus on their roles as parents, prioritizing their children’s happiness and well-being.
Read More: Meghan Markle Shared a Series of Photos of Son Archie and Daughter Princess Lilibet
Prince Harry and Meghan’s journey since stepping back from royal duties has been marked by significant changes and new beginnings. From welcoming Lilibet into their family to establishing their presence in the United States, they have embraced a life that balances royal tradition with modern, independent living.
The early celebration of Princess Lilibet’s third birthday is a testament to the couple’s dedication to family values and their commitment to providing their children with a nurturing and loving environment. As they continue to build their life in California, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain focused on creating a fulfilling and enriching childhood for both Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
In conclusion, the pre-birthday bash for Princess Lilibet highlights the Sussexes’ blend of royal tradition and modern family life.
The intimate celebration at their Montecito home reflects their dedication to family and the joy they find in celebrating significant milestones with loved ones. As they mark Lilibet’s third birthday, Prince Harry and Meghan continue to honor their royal heritage while forging their unique path as a family.
