Princess Charlotte of Wales was born on May 2, 2015, at St Mary’s Hospital in London. To celebrate, the United Kingdom held gun salutes and lit popular London landmarks pink. Her full name, Charlotte Elizabeth Diana, honors her great-grandmother and grandparents. She is currently third in line for the throne because of the Perth Agreement, which was passed in 2011. This got rid of rules favoring male inheritance, so when her brother Louis was born in 2018, she didn’t lose her spot in the succession.
Charlotte’s parents, Princess Kate and Prince William, try their best to keep her out of the public eye as much as possible. It is important to them that she have a normal childhood, but she is a princess after all. The public adores her, and in her rare public appearances, she is a perfect little lady. Here are 10 times she captured the hearts of the world.
Leaving the hospital
As is royal tradition, Charlotte made her public debut not long after being born. She and her parents posed for photos on the steps of the Lindo Wing at St. Mary’s Hospital. Kate left the hospital just 10 hours after giving birth. It is normal for mums in the U.K. to spend less time in the hospital after giving birth. Kate is also aware that her presence causes a public frenzy, so she likes not to overstay her welcome if medically possible.
Christening
As the reigning monarchs, Charlotte’s family is also in charge of the Church of England. So Charlotte’s christening was a big deal. It took place on July 5, 2015, at St Mary Magdalene Church, Sandringham. Justin Welby, the archbishop of Canterbury, performed the sacrament. The princess looked especially adorable outside the church in her pram pushed by mum Kate.
More from Mom: Kate Middleton’s Parents Stand in for the Princess of Wales at Wimbledon
Trooping the Colour 2016
The United Kingdom celebrates the monarch’s birthday with the annual Trooping the Colour. It is a big parade in which the king or queen inspects the troops. The grand finale of the event is a Royal Air Force flyover with the royal family looking on from the balcony of Buckingham Palace. In 2016, Charlotte looked so cute in pale pink looking at the planes. What a way to celebrate her great-grandma’s birthday.
Royal tour to Canada
William and Kate are very hands on parents. So when they go on tour as part of their royal duties, the whole family comes along. In 2016, the gang traveled to Canada. Charlotte and her older brother, Prince George, had a blast playing with instruments at a children’s event for military families.
Royal Tour to Germany
In 2017, the family traveled to Germany and Poland. When they landed in Berlin, they color-coordinated their outfits. They looked beautiful in blue. Charlotte accessorized with a blue bow in her hair and patent leather shoes.
Bridesmaid
When Charlotte was 3 years old, she served as a bridesmaid in her uncle Prince Harry’s wedding. There was drama over the dresses. Reports first stated that Meghan made Kate cry after an argument over the garments. Meghan later told Oprah that the opposite was true but that Kate apologized for it. Despite the tension, Charlotte looked charming in her white gown and flower crown.
Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral
To the world, Queen Elizabeth II was a steadfast monarch ruling who over the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. To Charlotte, she was just great-grandma. When Elizabeth died on September 8, 2022, Charolette was just 7 years old. She attended the state funeral and wore a special horseshoe brooch. It was a gift from Elizabeth since the two shared a love of horses.
King Charles III’s Coronation
While King Charles III officially became sovereign immediately after Queen Elizabeth’s death, his coronation took place eight months later. It was held at Westminster Abbey on May 6, 2023. Charlotte was on hand to support her grandfather. She looked angelic in all white and wore a tiara for the first time. It was designed by Jess Collett and Alexander McQueen and look similar to the one her mum Kate wore.
Trooping the Colour 2024
Time goes by so fast. In 2024, Charlotte turned 9 years old. She has regularly attended the Trooping the Colour over the years. These days it celebrates her grandpa’s birthday. Compare this photo to her first in 2016 and ponder where the years went.
Wimbledon
Charlotte’s mom, Kate, serves as the royal patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. As part of her duties, she normally attends Wimbledon and presents trophies to the winners of the men’s and women’s singles events. In March of 2024, Kate shared that she was diagnosed with cancer. She did not share specifics but did announce that she will be taking time off for treatment. She was able to make it to Wimbledon in July of 2024 and brought Charlotte along. The crowd gave her a standing ovation as Charlotte looked up, beaming with pride at her mom.