On 9 March 2026, the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey brought together members of the British royal family, including Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, and Princess Anne. Their attendance marked a celebration of the Commonwealth, yet the day also provided a moment of light-heartedness as the two royal women opted not to greet each other with a customary kiss on the cheek.
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Observers noted that the absence of the traditional greeting was likely influenced by the size of Kate Middleton’s elaborate hat. As noted by royal reporter Rebecca English from the Daily Mail, the Princess of Wales’s headpiece made a cheek-kissing exchange quite challenging. English took to social media to share a video of the interaction, asserting, “There was no way Princess Anne was going to attempt a kiss under a hat like the Princess of Wales.”
Despite the missed opportunity for a cheek smooch between the two, the royal family exchanged warm greetings throughout the event. The greeting rituals remained in line with royal tradition as Prince William, Kate’s husband, was observed greeting his father, King Charles III, with kisses on both cheeks upon the monarch’s arrival just prior to the ceremony.
Prince William also extended a kiss to Queen Camilla, maintaining the royal family’s customary displays of affection. The event showcased a blend of formal greetings typical of royal interactions and more relaxed exchanges, often forming a familiar part of their family dynamics.
While Kate Middleton adeptly navigated her impressive headpiece while exchanging kisses with other royals, Princess Anne, who is known for her preference for more formal interactions, appeared to have opted for a cheeky avoidance. Anne’s light-hearted jibe reflects her personality, which often balances propriety with a dash of humour.
The Princess Royal has been noted for her preference for structured greetings in recent years, particularly following the death of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. Royal biographer Robert Hardman documented in his book, *The Making of a King: King Charles III and the Modern Monarchy*, a moment in which Princess Anne reportedly expressed her aversion to informal gestures of affection. Following the Queen’s passing, a senior staff member offered Anne a hug, only to receive a wry smile and a firm declaration that “that is the last time that’s going to happen.”
These glimpses into the dynamics of the royal family reveal the delicate balance they maintain between their formal roles and personal interactions. The event at Westminster Abbey not only served as a celebration of Commonwealth unity but also highlighted the individuality of its members.
In a climate of increased public scrutiny on royal behaviours, moments like these can provide insights into the royal family’s character. Princess Kate and Princess Anne’s interaction, surrounded by the embrace of tradition and a touch of personal flair, contributes to the evolving narrative of modern monarchy.
As the royals continue to engage with the public through various ceremonies and functions, the importance of these informal moments remains a testament to their personal relationships, reflecting the humanity behind their royal titles. The exchanges at the Commonwealth Day service serve as a reminder that even within the confines of regal obligation, warmth and jest can shine through.