Princess Charlotte’s Christening A Sweet Family Affair

Sunday marked Princess Charlotte’s christening. The day included an intimate baptismal ceremony held in an iconic church, along with thousands of well-wishers witnessing the royal family’s quick walk to the church, with Prince William and Kate Middleton’s youngest in a carriage.

Close friends and family of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge witnessed Princess Charlotte’s christening in the Church of St. Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham Estate. The proud parents arrived walking toward the church, with Prince William holding Prince George’s hand, while Kate pushed the baby carriage in which Princess Charlotte was nestled, reported Us Weekly,

Kate looked stunning in an all-white Alexander McQueen suit, with a Jane Taylor hat and nude pumps. Prince George wore a white, short sleeve shirt with a rounded collar and red markings along the chest. This was paired with red shorts, white socks and black shoes. Observers note that the young prince’s attire held a close resemblance to what Prince William wore when he was taken to meet newborn brother Prince Harry in 1984.

According to E! News, guests who turned out for Princess Charlotte’s christening included Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip, grandparents Prince Charles and wife Camilla, and Michael and Carole Middleton. Kate’s siblings Pippa and James Middleton were also in attendance, along with Princess Charlotte’s five godparents. Prince Harry was unable to attend as he is currently on a three-month conservation trip in Africa.

Princess Charlotte was baptized by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, who also christened Prince George. The baptismal ceremony used water from the River Jordan, as did George's 2013 christening, which took place in London. After the 45-minute private ceremony, the royal family and their guests proceeded to the royal couple’s Sandringham estate for tea and cake.

Well-wishers who gathered at the church brought flowers for Princess Charlotte’s christening. An estimated 3,500 people were at Sandringham, stated the Telegraph. Some even spent the night in a car parked near the church, to ensure a good viewing spot.

The whole affair was laden with sweet moments between Kate and Princess Charlotte, as the Duchess of Cambridge cradled her crying 2-month-old baby in her arms to try and calm her down. Meanwhile, Prince George looked adorable as he cutely stood on tiptoes alongside Princess Charlotte’s carriage, trying to sneak a peek at his baby sister.