Kate Middleton entered the Royal Family upon marrying Prince William in 2011, poised to shape its future. As she embraced duties as Duchess of Cambridge and later Princess of Wales, Queen Elizabeth II provided essential guidance through public engagements and royal responsibilities.
The two first met in 2008, building a deep bond that lasted until the Queen’s passing in 2022.
Immediate Interest and Support
Royal author Russell Myers highlights the Queen’s early engagement with Kate. “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 tied to his book, William & Catherine: The Intimate Inside Story.
Their connection went beyond wedding jewelry. Kate wore the Cartier Halo tiara on her wedding day, an 18th birthday gift to Elizabeth II from the Queen Mother. Kate has since borrowed other pieces multiple times.
In March 2019, nearly eight years after the wedding, Kate accompanied the Queen on her first solo royal outing.
“There was a real sense that the Queen was looking out for her as well,” Myers noted. “She had invited her for private chats. She spoke to her about headstrong husbands, which she had certain experience of.” Kate valued this wisdom deeply and cherished the Queen’s love, guidance, and backing.
Personal Pre-Wedding Counsel
Before the nuptials, Kate met the Queen alone at Buckingham Palace for tea and finger sandwiches. The Queen skipped wedding logistics to offer reassurance on Kate’s emerging senior role and tips for managing willful partners.
William earns praise from staff and family for his approachable, thoughtful nature—he prefers his first name over formal titles—but he remains direct and assertive when pursuing goals.
Cherished Heirlooms on Loan
Kate often wears the Queen’s treasured jewels. At a 2017 Buckingham Palace state banquet honoring Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, she donned a ruby floral necklace, a wedding gift to Elizabeth II from her parents.
She has also sported the Queen’s diamond bracelet, presented by Prince Philip in 2015, and the Lover’s Knot tiara—previously worn by Princess Diana—among various other items over the years.
