Kate Middleton launches photo career
Kate Middleton launched her new photographic career yesterday by setting up an exhibition of limited edition shots of celebrities by Alistair Morrison. She organized the event, which was in aid of UNICEF, together with her sister Pippa at The Shop at Bluebird in Chelsea.
Kate Middleton and Prince William arriving
Kate made a big impression by mingling with a well-attended guest list, including Laura Lopes, pregnant daughter of the Duchess of Cornwall and — eventually — Prince William.
Despite the excellence of the photography on display, the talk of the show was the huge ring she wore on her left hand. Was it from Prince William, everyone was asking?
Although he arrived late, William made amends by taking Kate, Pippa, their mother and Guy Pelly for dinner.
Photographer Alistair Morrison tipped Kate as a future star in the art world. “She takes beautiful, detailed photographs,” he said. “She has a huge talent and a great eye. I’m sure she will go far.”
Kate also attended a book launch this week, suggesting perhaps that high-class art events have now replaced trips to familiar old haunts and merry wateringholes.
I’d say that organizing an event like this is real work! Better yet, it’s for a good cause, and not just profit. In my eyes, this is a good move for Kate, better than her job at Jigsaw.
I’m not concerned that Prince William showed up late. He’s a busy man. Taking the crew out for dinner was a nice gesture, and shows he’s in good standing with Kate’s family.
As for the ring, time will tell! I wouldn’t be at all surprised if it was a gift from William, engagement or not. Everyone will be watching to see if it’s something she wears every time she’s out; if so, it’s significant!
By Evelyn on November 29th, 2007 at 3:17 pm
I agree, Evelyn. I think it’s more appropriate for her than travelling around buying accessories for fashion stores. It will at least allow her to use her creativity and give her more control over her life and her time.
By John on November 29th, 2007 at 3:37 pm
John, I have seen previous pictures where she is wearing a very similar ring, on her right hand I believe. Do you think it is new, perhaps belonging to Princess Diana?
By Madelaine on November 29th, 2007 at 5:24 pm
She looked wonderful that night and I’m very glad that William was there to support her. Great job Kate!
By Claudius on November 29th, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Madelaine, it may well have been Diana’s ring, mentioned earlier. I don’t know, I’m afraid. We’ll have to wait for details to filter out.
By John on November 29th, 2007 at 5:52 pm
This is a young woman with a great deal on the ball. I think that William and the Royal Family are very lucky indeed if she becomes a member of the family.
More power to her!
By Emeline on November 29th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
John, it’s good to see Kate moving forward with her photography career. Organising this event was certainly a step in the right direction for Kate, not to mention a step in a positive direction by benefitting charity!
I also think it’s great that Kate’s whole family was taken out to dinner by Prince William, including her father Michael Middleton and her brother James. I saw a couple of photos of Kate’s father with Guy Pelly and someone else, and I was surprised that Kate’s father Michael was such a handsome man. I’m not usually attracted to older men his age, but he’s quite good-looking. Her mother was very pretty also, I see where Kate gets her good looks.
By mapleleaf on November 29th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
How super and Kate did look so beautiful but was a little bit put out early on with Laura commenting. I’m glad William eventually arrived (with Pelly again. Bet he will go on holiday with them too). Ring is costume ring Kate purchased herself a few months ago At the time it was refered to as ‘bling.’ Was William drunk ? I bet he’d been for a drink or two with Pelly before arriving 7 minutes before end of exhibition. John report it as it was.
By penny on November 29th, 2007 at 6:53 pm
John, Isn’t it true that William arrived late and left early without Kate. I still feel that he just doesnt give her the attention a lover should. Why oh why does he need Pelly by him so often. I cant help feeling very uneasy when he is about. As a matter of interest who was it in the taxi with Kate ?
By Will on November 29th, 2007 at 7:29 pm
Penny, where do you get your story from?
By John on November 29th, 2007 at 7:40 pm
Very little to say except Kate is GORGEOUS, she is so elegantly dressed and as she is reported to have said ‘He is lucky to have me’ and so will the RF be! I just hope PW realises it before it’s too late, just get rid of that parasite Pelly, cut down on the drink and give Kate the time she deserves.
Maplleaf where did you see the photos of Kate’s father?
By Royalist on November 29th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
Hi John, Have you found out where William and his poodle went on to after Exhibition ? I understand that William arrived back after 3am. Sloshed!
By Will on November 29th, 2007 at 8:22 pm
Poor Kate it seems that even on her night William can’t be without Guy Pelly not far behind!!! I wonder where his so-called girlfriend Susannah was? Kate I think has finally found her niche doing what she really loves and it helped benifit a charity to. Yes she really looked lovely and positivley glowed. I wish her more success. By the way John some posters have noticed Guy’s presence constantly with William What is the real STORY?
By Trudie on November 29th, 2007 at 8:45 pm
I love it that Kate did this! Was William really “late” or exactly on time? If this was her first show, I doubt she would have wanted him there the whole time to distract from the event.
By Cate on November 29th, 2007 at 8:56 pm
I agree with you, Cate. Kate was working; it wasn’t a social event. I’m sure K&W had talked about the timing in advance of the day.
By Evelyn on November 29th, 2007 at 10:26 pm
Unless I’ve missed something, William is currently serving in the military and his time isn’t exactly his own. Military duties prevent William from just running off, whenever he pleases, to see Kate. Perhaps William arrived at the gallery as early as he possibly could. Kate didn’t appear upset and William certainly behaved like an officer and a gentleman by taking Kate and her family to dinner. I can’t think of a better way to spend an evening during the work week. Let’s not try to read between the lines for something that isn’t there!
By Arthur on November 29th, 2007 at 11:02 pm
Hi Trudie, I sometimes feel that John thinks that I am somewhat biased about Pelly. Up until Jan/Feb this year where Harry was there we saw Pelly. Since then its William and (poodle) sorry Pelly. I understand that William left The Shop with Pelly and arrived home at 3am. Kate and escort went home in a black cab at about the same time as William left with his friend. Kate’s brother and sister also left together shortly before.
Cate/Evelyn; William WAS late when he arrived with his friend and looked as if they had been out earlier.
Truy when you find out THE real STORY let me know. Thanks
By Will on November 29th, 2007 at 11:02 pm
Guy Pelly was already at the show when William arrived. William was a bit late, but Guy Pelly actually arrived with Jamie Murray-Wells, I’ve seen the photos of them walking to the show.
Guy Pelly even took pictures with Kate’s father Michael Middleton.
In addition to Prince William’s friends Guy and Jamie Murray-Wells, James Meade was present, as was Holly Branson, and even JJ Jardine Paterson, who arrived with Pippa.
William arrived accompanied only by his bodyguards. I’ve seen his arrival photos also, they were all on the usual papparrazzi photo web sites.
By mapleleaf on November 30th, 2007 at 1:58 am
Hi Will we seem to be on the same page as far as Pelly is concerned. IMO he is the Camilla of this generation. If Kate marries Willie Pelly will probably make that marriage a bit crowded.
By Trudie on November 30th, 2007 at 3:49 am
Guy Pelly is actually good friends with Prince Harry, he may actually be even closer to Harry than he is to William. He is not the Camilla of this or any other generation, he has never professed or shown any preference to be with men instead of women. He has only ever dated women and he currently has a lovely girlfriend. He doesn’t have anything to prove to anyone, if he didn’t like women he wouldn’t date them.
The same for William and Harry. I believe some people have assumed that Guy Pelly isn’t straight, I think based moreso on looks than anything else, and so they make suppositions without any facts at all to substantiate them. I think that’s very bad form.
By mapleleaf on November 30th, 2007 at 6:15 am
Prince William arrived alone at the exhibition organised by Kate, and he was actually there in the gallery mingling at the show with everyone else. Guy Pelly may be a practical joker and has shown some immature behaviour in the past, but that’s no reason to automatically assume he leads an alternative lifestyle.
By mapleleaf on November 30th, 2007 at 6:16 am
Guy Pelly was there at the show with others, its only William who came at the end and sneaked from the back, while Kate and her family left from the front entrance. Apparently he called Guy and Holly to let them know when the event ended and decided to drop in as a last minute plan and have dinners with them, then left for another party with Guy and others.
By Eliz on November 30th, 2007 at 7:21 am
Thanks for information Eliz. I did hear that William had gone on to a party without Kate and stayed out late.It used to be said that William used Pelly to ‘look over’possible dates before he approached them and that had started up again. I fear that we have a repeat of the late 2006/early 2007 scenario but in a way Im not surprised . There is just somethink in the way that William ‘doesnt look’ at Kate. I think he is so weak willed and so easilly led and feel sorry for Kate who obviously loves William. He will not do the dumping this time as his minders fear for his popularity but poor Kate is in for a rough time. She is so loyal and beautiful.
By Will on November 30th, 2007 at 9:21 am
Mapleleaf, I agree with you. Pelly is just one of a large set of friends. Many turned up to support Kate’s first venture, which is completely normal. Let’s not bring evil suppositions into it.
As a friend of both William and Kate, not to mention her sister, it would be natural for Pelly to be invited to dinner, especially if William and others intended going back to Mahiki — where Pelly is a manager — afterwards.
As for Wills not looking at Kate, that’s tosh. There are many photographs of them together and descriptions of how they behave in private. He’s just not demonstrative in public, that’s all. These are perfectly normal traits in an Englishman.
Harry is the exception — but then he always is.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 10:44 am
I don’t think William was late at all. I think it had been agreed that he come near the end, after all Kate was hosting the event it was her night not a couple night so I see nothing wrong with him coming when he did.
I also don’t see anything wrong with him going for a few drinks beforehand, it was a night out after all.
I feel that William and Kate are in a catch 22 situation; if they are loveydovey in public the press being hyperventilating about a wedding and if they stay low key its claimed that William still isn’t sure and poor Kate.
Personally, I would like them to be more tactile in public, I’m not looking for a major snog but holding hands would be nice.
By Eliza on November 30th, 2007 at 12:09 pm
Eliza, I think the strategy is to keep the media away from Kate by making her a non-story. It seems to be working and I think it’s the right way forward.
If nothing is to happen until early 2009, when William leaves the Forces, we have all of 2008 to get through. I’m sure neither of them wants 2008 to be the Year of the Royal Snog.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 12:19 pm
Why are you all supposing I suspect their gay? hehe. During Diana’s courtship with Charles it was Camilla who was always there knowing more about the relationship before Diana. Pelly IS always around even on vacations which is worse and that makes a relationship crowded. However that said how often is he photographed with his girlfriend when out with William and Kate HMMMMM
By Trudie on November 30th, 2007 at 12:29 pm
No, we certainly don’t but I don’t want it to be the year of ducking and diving either. Zara can hold hands with her boyfriend and nobody takes any notice so why not our lovebirds?
If they just relaxed maybe that would allow the thing to be a non story too. Its all the speculation that gets newspaper inches.
By Eliza on November 30th, 2007 at 12:31 pm
Mapleleaf Pelly and Harry have not been photographed together since the concert for Diana and not with Pelly much before that. I don’t believe they are that close and Harry CERTAINLY has not taken Pelly on vacation with himself and Chelsea. See the difference?. Why is it when a story or discussion about William that may not be to other peoples image of him is Harry’s name always dragged out? Whether Pelly was their first or not he WAS there and as I said It was Kates night and where was Susannah?
By Trudie on November 30th, 2007 at 12:46 pm
Trudie, Susanna is studying at the Institute of Performing Arts in Liverpool — which is a long way to come for an evening photo exhibition and book launch.
Both Princes obviously enjoy an evening with the raucous and amusing Pelly. He’s their court jester, simple as that. But there are usually plenty of other around too, including on the skiing holiday.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 12:54 pm
Hi John and everyone, first I should say that I have the utmost respect for both John and Claudius who have been real rocks in their support for Kate even in bad times. My comments however do take into account reports and spin occasionally reported from ‘sources close to Clarence House’. If these are genuine or not, who knows? I can only relate my feelings to how I and most friends think and behave with friends and loved ones. William, withdrawn or not, sober or not does not give the impression of care where Kate is concerned. Again briefs by ‘friends’ say that he cares but his actions do not bear this out. Recently he has been very busy but his nights out have been with Army collegues and others. If he cared he would make every effort to get to Kate but seems to prefer the company of others even going out after the Exhibition with ‘friends’ and leaving Kate to go home with her escort. Apparently he didnt even say goodbye to her before slipping out. There is a very sad photograph of Kate leaving alone and looking lonely and carrying her bags
Finaaly I dont thing Kate is friendly with Pelly and this has been noted in the past. Yes Eliza wouldn’t it be lovely to see William holding Kate hand after all he has been seen holding hands with Jesica Craig and Holly Branson fairly recently. Unfortunately I do think there are problems. How I wish there wern’t.
By Will on November 30th, 2007 at 1:17 pm
Will, here’s what I reported in RA on October 5th :
A few nights ago, Kate Middleton and Prince William were spotted dining at a small Kensington restaurant, Locanda Ottoemezzo, far from their usual haunts.
They reportedly sat side-by-side at a small table, and “held hands with their faces close together in the candlelightâ€. William was said to be the more demonstrative, one time holding Kate’s face between his hands.
Another diner said, “It was remarkable because there were other people in the restaurant. My only guess is that they felt comfortable because they were well away from their usual patch and knew nobody would expect to find them there.
It’s very different when they’re not in front of the cameras.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 1:23 pm
Hi John, Once again thanks for information. Yes I did read your story but unfortunately I also read two or three others on the same theme and the words were identical. My view is that William is not demonstative with Kate but has few inhibitions with others. I am a few years older that William and can only relate his actions with my own and others. By analysing William’s formal engagements and his reported outings recently he and Kate have hardly seen one another over the past 6-8 weeks and when there is an opportunity for them to be together such as after the Exhibition, he ignored her, and yes he did ignore her despite sitting at the same table four places from her. He then left after arranging to meet others ,both guys and girls, for ‘drinks’ later while leaving Kate to go home. To make matters worse he did have his ‘sampler’ Pelly with him which was bad news. John think of Jan,Feb,March and this is history repeating itself. Only this time William has to protect his reputation . Perhaps he will say that Kate is boring. He’s said it before but again, perhaps she doesn’t want to drink every night away. I feel, no, I know there is more to Kate than that and at the risk of repeating myself, I am worried for their relationship and in the long term it will be Kate who will suffer.
Regards again
By Will on November 30th, 2007 at 2:33 pm
Will, what you read about is only a fraction of their lives together. Remember, Kate has a security pass to Clarence House where William lives when in London.
Kate almost certainly left after dinner the other night because she just didn’t want to go clubbing after her busy day organizing the show and book launch. It would be absurd to suggest she wasn’t invited.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 2:37 pm
I agrre with Will, if only he would hold her hand in public, that for me would be some degree of commitment short of engagement.
Is anything known ‘for certain’ about their press publicised post Christmas holiday in the Bahamas, hopefully sans Pelley?
By Royalist on November 30th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
Will, the quote was identical because there was only one witness quoted in the restaurant. It’s not permitted to change a witness’s words. The rest of the piece was not identical with other reports written around the quote. You obviously have an agenda.
Royalist, as far as we know the holiday in Rodrigues is still on. Although like all such arrangements, it’s possible to cancel at the last moment — without the original report being wrong.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
I wonder if there is another factor here that we need to consider. There is a great variety in people, we are not all alike. Just because Prince William is not outwardly demonstrative does not mean that he does not feel deeply. My own husband is circumspect in his demonstrations of affection, but that does not mean that he is not a loving, compassionate person. The key here is that Kate does not appear to have a problem with Prince William’s responses to her. It seems to me that she knows Prince William far better than we do and is happy with their relationship. No matter how closely we observe Prince William and Kate, we cannot truly know what their relationship is. The most reliable clue for me is that Kate is happy and Prince William is there when it is important to her that he attend. We have always to remember that they are endeavoring to avoid the media circus and manage the intrusive paparazzi. Further, it is my belief that people falling all over each other in public often does not signify a healthy relationship. When people are in love, they don’t require to contantly demonstrate that to others.
Regarding Guy Pelly, I admit that I find his presence annoying, but Prince William does not and all of us have friends who make us laugh and are valuable for that trait alone. If Kate had strong objections to Pelly, she appears to have reevaluated her position. Prince William did take Kate on a romantic, private vacation on an island and apparently there are holiday plans as well, just for the two of them. Further, and I cannot stress this too strongly, I think it is a mistake for any of us to assume that there is an alternative lifestyle working in the mix here. For one thing, it may not be true. For another, it is a non-issue even if true, as Prince William is a heterosexual. Guy Pelly is a jolly, high-spirited, hail-fellow-well-met personality and he is currently playing Falstaff to Prince William’s Prince Hal. I do not see anything sinister in that, especially since it is not an issue for Kate. As for Prince William spending time socializing with his military buddies, such close-unit comaraderie is in the best tradtion of the military and is invaluable for building trust and loyalty among the troops. It will be one of the few times Prince William gets to form enriching relationships with ordinary folks, something Princess Diana felt was very important for her sons.
Regarding Kate not going out after the gallery, I am not a bit surprised. Such an undertaking is exhausting and she probably wanted to go home and sleep! She is a mature adult, secure in the love of Prince William and does not feel the need to prove to the public or the press that they are a couple.
By Gigi on November 30th, 2007 at 5:10 pm
John, I don’t know if she was invited or not, but I am aware that William did not speak to Kate directly, did not sit near her at their meal which was not dinner but an extented buffet. William ate very little but drank wine and talked almost exclusively to Pelly and a blond lady who I think was Miss Branson. Kate may have been tired, agreed, but as she hadn’t seen William for well over a week, what an opportunity to get together and spend a few hours together. Yes it is said that Kate has security pass to Clarence House but I don’t think she has been there since her visit to Balmoral when she loaded her case into her Audi and drove to her parentsa home. Royalist makes a valid point about the well publicised holiday during Christmas period. Have you ever known such identifying information be published so far in advance? I have a feeling that a security advisor would never allow such detail to be in the public domain. John, there is a bad smell about and possibly clarification must be under consideration. There is something amiss. I hope I’m wrong but whatever facts are available only point in one direction and in the absence of positive information one can only consider the worse.
By Will on November 30th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
Personally I’m not a fan of public displays of affection and perhaps William and Kate share my view. They both seem like very private people and I have to say that I think their lack of affection towards each other in public is a wise choice. If their relationship ends, any future relationships they have will be compared to this one and I think that fewer photographs that there are of them together the better. I certainly wouldn’t like to be subjected to photographs of my partner with his ex-girlfriend in all the newspapers and online.
By Ash on November 30th, 2007 at 5:39 pm
John, Following on from my tirade earlier I am informed that Kate has been seen with an unidentified man near her home. No details are available but may have some significance on earlier views. I think it happened yesterday and Kate apparently had hand luggage and left in her car.
Will be interested to hear if anyone has confirmation of this
By Will on November 30th, 2007 at 6:13 pm
I really think people need to stop doubting their relationship. William & Kate is fine, it’s the press and others who think there’s more to what meets the eye. Kate looked great that night and she did a wonderful job. She had her family, friends and of course William there to support her. That is all that matters, the love that surrounds her is endless. I really like to reflect on The Queen & Duke of Edinburgh’s marriage, The Earl & Countess of Wessex’s marriage and Princess Anne’s marriage to Tim. These are people who don’t openly show their relationship to people of the public but you know there must be a lot of love there in order for those marriages to work and last all these years. There is a lot of love between William & Kate, you can see it. They really don’t have to prove anything.
By Claudius on November 30th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
Out of everything that has been reported in the press, I think the summary of their dinner out at Locanda Ottoemezzo is the best we’ve seen of their personal time together. I thought it was very tender and charming. This is exactly what you would expect of a couple in love.
By Cate on November 30th, 2007 at 7:45 pm
What I find annoying is that I was on the King’s Road a few hours before this event took place (in the same building)…..and only found out about it the day after as I was reading my newspaper in the tube!
By Chloe on November 30th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
It does seem a bit suspicious that William and Kate’s holiday destination would be made public, and so far in advance at that. On the other hand, is there any possibility that a fictitious destination has been leaked to throw the press off the scent of their true vacation spot?
Gigi is completely right about the fact that no one really knows what is going on in their relationship. I do have my own opinions but it’s based solely on my own experience plus observing the relationships and personal dynamic of people that I know or have known throughout my life. My current hunch is that this romance will not have a happy ending but it IS merely a hunch. I do hope that all is well between the two and that someday we will see a lovely royal wedding “starring” William and Kate. She does seem happy although we also all know that she would never let it show if her heart was breaking, as what we saw back in the spring when she and William broke up and she was smiling in public and moving on with her life.
By Melissa on November 30th, 2007 at 8:00 pm
Dont think the sighting of Kate with a guy yesterday is signifiant but I understand that there are photographs recording it.
Incidentally Kate left London last evening, destination unknown and companion(s) also unknown.
Away now for weekend. Bye all.
By Will on November 30th, 2007 at 8:35 pm
I’m always suspicious when commenters seem to have access to information that others don’t, especially when they seem to have it in for someone in particular — in this case Prince William.
I’ve had a lot of this on this site, much of it vindictive.
Will, I think you should give us your sources.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 8:35 pm
Will, the unidentified man could have been security or a friend or family member. What is the source of this information? Is it a tabloid, personal witness, or a credible media source (there’s an oxymoron for you!) I was just wondering.
Melissa, your comments are very interesting and insightful. However, if the relationship is in trouble, I doubt Prince William would have come to the gallery. He can use the pressure of military duties as an excuse, after all, and be totally credible.
I really believe that Kate and Prince William are in love, and, barring unforseen circumstances, will, in the fullness of time, marry and have a wonderful life together. Of course, I am a romantic, but I really believe in them as a couple. Naturally, I could be wrong, but right now, I am pinning my hopes on the dream of a royal wedding between Prince William and Kate.
By Gigi on November 30th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
Gigi, you’re absolutely right. There’s not a sliver of evidence that Kate and William are on the rocks.
Innuendo is an easy game to play, but these are people’s lives we’re talking about here. A little reticence is called for before claiming to have access to others’ souls.
By John on November 30th, 2007 at 8:46 pm
Well said, John. Unless one is a paparazzi, how does one know who was with Kate at her residence, who ate dinner with Prince William and that it was a buffet, and who talked with whom? This is beginning to make me uneasy. I always take comfort from knowing that John runs this site, knows who is actually posting, and monitors postings carefully. Nevertheless, I think we need to be careful–all of us–to make sure that what we write in our posts is accurate and fair, especially when we are discussing, as we are, senior members of the Royal Family. In this gossip-driven world, people’s reputations can be materially damaged with one ill-chosen statement which can be transmitted on the internet, magnified and distorted in an instant, even if the statements posted are unfounded. I am sure none of us wishes to cause distress to anyone.
By Gigi on November 30th, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Gigi, I didn’t at all mean that they are not currently a couple. People spend time together until one day they don’t. As I said, it is my HUNCH that things may not end well. As you said, no one really knows what is going on with William and Kate. Only Kate knows if she is unhappy with how things are going and if she is unhappy, the last place she would be likely to show it is out in public. Only William knows if he is dithering or otherwise. Sometimes men of all types keep one toe in the water even though they don’t plan on jumping in.
I hope that is not the case and that all is going well. A year ago we were expecting an engagement and they proved us wrong. All of this points to the fact that no matter how well informed or well connected we are, we are all speculating just the same. 
By Melissa on November 30th, 2007 at 8:58 pm
I’ve been following the comments and then I tried to put my self in William and Kate’s situation. Given the history, I would bend over backwards not to draw attention to the relationship. I think their not demonstrating affection publicaly is more than likely intentional and actually an indication that things are fine. I agree with Claudius and others that all is well.
By Armoni on November 30th, 2007 at 9:19 pm
You are very much right Gigi. People need to be careful about what they are saying. I really have no doubt that William knows about this site. It’s a great site so we can talk about the royal family. I really thank John for that but again being careful is key. William was there to show his support and that’s all. As for their vacation that’s coming up, I’m sure they will have a good time, just like the previous one. Being alone with the one you love is a beautiful and priceless moment.
By Claudius on November 30th, 2007 at 9:26 pm
John, I’m still wondering: would false information ever be put out regarding a holiday destination in order to keep the prying eyes of the press away from the real destination? Maybe they are trying to ensure their privacy by throwing the press off their vacation trail. More power to them, if that is the case!
By Melissa on November 30th, 2007 at 9:46 pm
I happen to be looking at this with respect to Kate. I know boys will be boys and hang out together but William and Kate are 25. Perhaps I am selfish but Kate clearly is in love with William and it seems Pelly is always around I don’t see many photos or story’s on Kate and William spending alone time. As a woman Prince or no Prince I would want my Guy to spend more time with me than with his friends especially now with a new career starting and all. Also there are other clubs to go to besides the one Pelly manages but they always wind up there. I say William could spend may be once a week with his friends doing a guys night and the rest with Kate and his military friends. A healthy relationship needs nurturing always If I were Kate that would not be to much to ask for.
By Trudie on December 1st, 2007 at 12:19 am
I hate to bring this up but did anyone read Richard Kay in the Daily Mail today. Even Kay acknowledges Pelly as Williams pal Harry did not even get a mention. Also how come Kate doesn’t feel the need to bring her pals on vacations or nights out with William?. I suggest to Kate surprise William with a get away and don’t let him know where only for security reasons tell the PPO”S and swear them to secrecy That will really add spice to the relationship. Kate you are now being true to yourself with a new career choice you keep going girl!!!!
By Trudie on December 1st, 2007 at 1:34 am
Trudie, I don’t think you’re selfish at all. You just want Kate to be respected and treated well. It definitely does take work and nurturing to maintain a sense of togetherness after five years together and no official commitment. Hopefully they are being so discreet and private that no one knows how much time they do spend together. Let’s hope they are somewhere together, chuckling at all of the hype and speculation.
By Melissa on December 1st, 2007 at 2:08 am
Melissa, I think you have something there. Kate and Prince William have access to Clarence House and I would not be a bit surprised to find that they are spending many evenings together at CH, away from prying eyes and papparazzi cameras. Couples don’t always want to go out on their evenings together, after all. As for their evenings out, at Mahiki or on holiday, I do not find it odd at all that friends accompany them. When my husband and I were the ages of Kate and Prince William and dating each other, even after we became engaged, we had a close group of friends with whom we enjoyed spending time on a regular basis. Before long, all the couples in that group became married to the people they were dating at that time, and we were all present for these weddings or part of the bridal parties. After all were married, we often went camping or went on other holidays as a group. Is this so unusual, then?
By Gigi on December 1st, 2007 at 4:35 am
Melissa, holiday destinations have been mentioned in the past and then they’ve gone somewhere else. It could be that once the news gets out, they drop the idea and find another destination.
As for Pelly, he’s the centre of a group of Highgrove friends, many of whom went to Cirencester Agricultural College. William is probably invited by text and just turns up. Pelly’s clearly a useful aide de camp.
As I said before, we don’t know how much time William spends with Kate in Clarence House. There was a report of her smuggling herself in a few months ago, when she parked her car some distance away. This may happen on a regular basis for all we know.
Both seem to be very happy with the arrangement.
By John on December 1st, 2007 at 10:10 am
Thanks for replying, John.
I was reading a story about this event on another website. They posted the same picture of Kate and described the dress as “form-fitting.” In no way would I describe her dress as form-fitting. It looks rather loose to me. (I saw a couple of other views of the dress, as well.) This perfectly illustrates how two people can look at the same thing, be it a picture or a situation, and wind up at completely opposite ends in their opinions. That’s what makes the world go ’round!
By Melissa on December 1st, 2007 at 11:35 am
And John, I happened across a picture of Zara Phillips on her way to the wild west party that you mentioned in another posting. Egads! What a disappointing contrast to the elegant pictures of her when she received the MBE and when she attended the anniversary service.
I assume that the party was somehow an homage to the American West, or an excuse to wear cowboy hats and boots, as I don’t recall the UK having a ‘wild west.’ LOL
By Melissa on December 1st, 2007 at 11:40 am
Yep, it was a cowboys and injuns party with Yeeee haas and thigh slapping all round. Zara was a bit overexposed on that occasion.
Actually, I live in the West Country of England and it’s not at all wild — except Penzance on a Saturday night.
By John on December 1st, 2007 at 11:45 am
LOL, John. You mean there are no gun-toting cowboys riding about on their palomino fillies in the west of England?
By Melissa on December 1st, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Nope. But we do have line dancing classes in some old people’s homes.
By John on December 1st, 2007 at 2:14 pm
I never would have thought, John! I have a clear image in my mind of all the lovely ladies and gents participating in a line dance. I’m also blaming you for why I now have the amusing scenario in my head of a cattle drive pushing through the wild countryside in the west of England. LOL
You know, I was thinking, maybe Zara is planning a switch to calf roping and barrel racing after she meets her goal of procuring an Olympic medal. No, I don’t really think so!
I digress yet again…
By Melissa on December 1st, 2007 at 2:24 pm
I saw that picture of Zara, at the wild west party, and thought she looked wonderful showing off her “Girls of Great Britian.”
By Arthur on December 1st, 2007 at 6:07 pm
Changing subjects… The Daily Mail is reporting that Sophie Wessex is “scheduled” to have their baby on Christmas Day. I assume that means it’s a planned c-section.
The article says that Louise’s birth was very difficult, and that they almost lost mother and baby. Does anyone here have any more details about that?
By Evelyn on December 2nd, 2007 at 1:06 am
Well Evelyn you have just delivered the best post on this thread yet. Was the source a friend or just gossip coming from Bagshot?.
I just hope and pray for a safe delivery and a healthy Christmas present to the parents.
By Trudie on December 2nd, 2007 at 2:12 am
I really have no idea what the Daily Mail’s source is, or how credible it is. The article is written by Angella Johnson. Here are two quotes from it:
“Sophie Wessex, 42, is already booked into her local hospital for the Christmas Day birth of the Queen’s eighth grandchild. …
“Sophie is being closely monitored by Royal obstetrician Marcus Setchell, and staff at Frimley Park Hospital near the home of the Wessexes, at Bagshot Park in Surrey, have been put on 24-hour standby.”
That sounds to me like a planned c-section, with the medical staff on alert in case labor begins before Christmas. I would expect the hospital to be less busy around Christmas, with most people wanting to put off elective surgeries and treatments until after the holiday. That would make security a bit easier to manage, I’d think. Given the medical complications last time, they’ll want the best medical people available in case of problems.
By Evelyn on December 2nd, 2007 at 2:42 am
I think it’s awful to plan a c-section for Christmas day. The poor child will forever be shortchanged when it comes to gift giving. They will receive one gift and a card that reads: “Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday.” Bah, humbug!
By Arthur on December 2nd, 2007 at 3:59 am
Let us all concentrate our energy and pray for a safe delivery of the new Royal baby and that Mother and child are in good health. What happened to the Countess of Wessex when Lady Louise was born was very frightening, I confess I shall be quite anxious until we hear that Mother and baby are safe and well.
By Gigi on December 2nd, 2007 at 4:46 am
Gigi, WHAT HAPPENED???
By Evelyn on December 2nd, 2007 at 5:17 am
I haven’t seen the story yet, but I think it unlikely that either Sophie or the medical staff would schedule an induced or Caesarean birth for Christmas Day. It sounds like that’s the best guess and they’re clearing the decks
As for what happened last time, I believe she started to haemorrage massively. A servant rang the police to get an ambulance and alert the hospital, but nothing happened. It wasn’t treated as an emergency, so it took 30 minutes or longer to get help to her.
As far as I remember, Edward wasn’t there and it was a huge shambles. Sophie and the baby nearly bled to death. It was touch and go by all accounts.
One thing’s for sure, she herself will make sure a military-style operation is in place this time.
By John on December 2nd, 2007 at 11:08 am
Who cares when it’s born!!!! It is still December and no matter if she goes early it is still a beautiful Christmas gift early. I just hope like John said it will be a sort of military operation this time and none of the complications of last time. How much Champagne is on hand ?
By Trudie on December 2nd, 2007 at 11:41 am
My dear Trudie, I can assure you that the moment we are informed of the safe arrival of the Royal baby, I shall be serving Royal Anecdotes Gala Welcome to the Royal Infant tea and the champagne shall flow like the Thames at high flood! I fear I must ask John, Arthur and Claudius to be good enough to pour the champagne so that the champagne flutes of the merry makers can be well-supplied!
Evelyn, John is correct about the frightening and nearly life-ending disaster that the Countess of Wessex endured during the birth of Lady Louise. The snafu was very nearly responsible for taking the lives of both mother and baby and if the Queen has to post the Life Guards around Bagshot Park to ensure the safe delivery of the second child of the Earl and Countess, then I say let it be done! John is not over-stating the peril Sophie and Lady Louise were in, they very nearly bled to death. For my own part, I very nearly went into cardiac arrest when I read the accounts of the travail at the time.
As a woman who has given birth to two children myself, I know very well that babies are born when they decide to be born and often not when the doctor expects them to do so. Therefore, my prayers for the safe delivery and the health and safety of the Countess of Wessex and her second child begin right now and will continue until after all are vouchsafed. The baby will be a splendid Christmas present for all, I agree!! There is nothing so wonderful as a new baby in the house!
By Gigi on December 2nd, 2007 at 3:32 pm
My dear Arthur, there can be no greater honor than being born on Christmas Day, the birthday of Our Lord Jesus Christ. I am sure that the doting parents will make sure the Christmas child is not slighted on his or her birthday. There are residuals, you know. All his or her life, the child will hear the church bells peal on Christmas Day and feel that the joy they herald is, in part, for him or her. Christmas is the happiest time of the entire year, a splendid time for a birthday!
By Gigi on December 2nd, 2007 at 3:38 pm
John, I am quite dismayed by the Cunard organization by-passing the Queen and asking Camilla to launch their new ship, the Queen Victoria! What a misstep and, indeed, an insult to the Queen, by clueless executives at Cunard! I read that the Queen is surprised not to have been asked and more surprised that Camilla was chosen, but my guess is that the Queen is far more than slightly surprised. These luxury vessels named for Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Elizabeth II were all launched by Queens and so should the Queen Victoria. Camilla is not a queen, no matter how much Charles is conniving to make her so. I am most seriously put out! This little fiasco puts paid to any idea that I shall ever travel on a Cunard vessel!
By Gigi on December 2nd, 2007 at 4:08 pm
Gigi, the great British maritime companies are no longer in British hands, I’m afraid. The last I heard Cunard was in Danish hands and, of course, P&O was sold to Dubai last year, meaning that the ownership of the great ports of the Empire, including many American ones passed out of British hands.
There was a big to-do in Congress about it and I believe they’ve now reconciled themselves to Arab ownership — although some ports may have been sold off to western interests.
So, probably the Danish owners of Cunard were looking to the future.
By John on December 2nd, 2007 at 4:30 pm
The Danes need to remember that insulting the Queen of England is bad form and ill-advised. Further, their own history includes members of their Royal family who became rulers in other countries (i.e. Greece) and did not remain rulers for very long. It is unwise to do business by anticipating the future in reference to who might become be king or queen of another country. Further, the Duke of Edinburgh was a Prince of Denmark and thus the Danish owners of Cunard have also insulted a member of their own Ruling House–the consort of the Queen of England.
Regarding the ownership matters you mention, it is a sad fact of recent years that both France and Britain have sold so many of their companies and institutions to foreigners. It is happening in America now at an alarming rate, all for the sake of money. I suspect that the day will come when those careless decisions will be deeply regretted by all of us.
By Gigi on December 2nd, 2007 at 7:06 pm
Hello All- I am an American anglophile and regular follower of RA. I really hope for a very safe and easy delivery for Sophie and a healthy baby for the parents. I love all of this talk about the holidays in the U.K. but have never had the privilege of being there at that time of year. My apologies if this is off topic, but the holidays there sound so special there. Could someone please tell me what makes the holidays unique/special in the U.K.? Many thanks!
By Lisa on December 2nd, 2007 at 8:18 pm
Gigi I so agree with you!!! Old Chucky probably connived and lobbied for Cammy to launch the ship and present her as he did much to my disgust in Uganda as a Queen. I am sure HM is more than surprised as from what I hear she has a great admiration for her Great-Great Grandmother and quotes her often.
As for the Danes not only is PP a Prince of Denmark, HM being the Great-Granddaughter of Queen Alexandra, Edward VII’s consort also makes her a relative of the Danish House.
By Trudie on December 3rd, 2007 at 2:39 am
Alright, I just heard that kate has turned down the Royals offer for another shoot maybe this weekend but will join the royals for a break. Now where is this story coming from? Also I just read that Chelsy was seen at the gates of Kensington Palace because Harry had droped her off. I didn’t even know that they were back at KP. How wonderful.
By Claudius on December 3rd, 2007 at 3:05 am
Well said, Trudie, and that is a good point about the Queen being Queen Alexandra’s Great Granddaughter.
Excellent information, Claudius! If all goes well, we may have our Royal couples merrily reunited in time for Christmas! As for me, unless Canada invades Michigan, I will be totally focused on the expected birth of the Royal Wessex baby!!
By Gigi on December 3rd, 2007 at 6:07 am
she is showing so much happiness even she is in pain. for sure this will tend to mislead many press people to think they are alright. but common sense will tell she was not assured marriage bcoz again she is allowed to work? why?how much does it cost to date a prince? if only william is willing to marry her he could have done it right away.but on the contrary it’s the woman who seemed to be courting her man, infact, tested to be dumped!!a man’s test if he can w/stand trials?but this happened to kate, she was put to test by her man if she can w/stand being dumped-well i think she passed- she is rated very satisfactory! the next test is : can she wait until the time william will propose her-w/out losing her MIND! I think she is now beginning to lose her senses if she will not surrender. it will take so much pain if she will continue hanging! the prince always arrive late in every occassion he is invited, maybe bcoz he doesn’t want to attend but was forced by kate ! how sad for kate-she is too unfortunate!!
By AMY on December 18th, 2007 at 5:35 am