Princess Kate and the Middleton clan had reason to celebrate this week, as her sister-in-law Alizée Thevenet celebrated a milestone birthday and as always, the family story has a charming twist.
Alizée, the French financial analyst who won the heart of Kate’s younger brother, James Middleton, turned 36 on November 30.
And although James, usually quick to post heartfelt tributes, has kept this year’s celebrations under wraps, we can imagine a fun day surrounded by their two-year-old son, Inigo, and their pack of beloved dogs.
Since first meeting James in 2018 thanks to an unexpected matchmaker, his late cocker spaniel, Ella, who visited Alizée at the South Kensington Club where she became a valuable figure within the Middleton fold.
From holidays to Saint-Barthélemy to family reunions with Carole, Michael, Pippa and of course Princess Kate, she has long felt like one of them.
Today, as she celebrates her 36th birthday with her growing family, the woman who arrived in James’ life by happy coincidence continues to shine at the heart of Middleton’s circle.
Meanwhile, royal watchers will notice a notable absence at King Charles’ traditional Christmas lunch this year, as William and Kate are reportedly not in attendance at the festive gathering.
It seems almost surreal and bittersweet to remember that not long ago, Princess Kate quietly stepped away from royal life to focus on her health following her cancer diagnosis.
Her annual Christmas carol concert always took place in 2024, but as the Princess of Wales wisely prioritized recovery, it became a rare, stripped-down treat for royal watchers.
This year, the holiday favorite is not only back with a bang, but it’s also taking on a whole new meaning.
Royal expert and Woman & Home Correspondent Emily Andrews says Kate’s “slow, thoughtful return to work” proved exactly the right approach.
And now, with her newfound strength, the princess is once again at the heart of her beloved holiday tradition.
Unlike last year, where she naturally took a step back, this season sees Kate “heavily involved in organizing, selecting and inviting all the participants”, Andrews reveals.
The December 5 concert, which will be broadcast across the UK on Christmas Eve, offers much more than Christmas carols and candlelight.
