Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has long captivated the public. While her royal duties and public appearances are well-documented, her private life remains less known. Despite her royal status, Catherine has maintained a down-to-earth and hands-on approach to household duties, striving to keep her family grounded.
When Catherine married Prince William in 2011, the couple opted for a relatively modest lifestyle compared to other royals. They moved into a farmhouse in Anglesey, Wales, where Prince William was stationed with the Royal Air Force. During this period, the couple embraced a low-key existence, often seen doing their own grocery shopping and enjoying quiet nights. Catherine took on many household responsibilities herself, including cooking and cleaning.
This hands-on approach starkly contrasted with the traditional royal lifestyle, where extensive household staff typically manage daily chores. This period allowed the couple to establish a strong foundation for their marriage away from the public eye and royal protocols. As a mother of three—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—Catherine has always been actively involved in her children's lives. She is often seen doing school runs, attending parent-teacher meetings, and participating in school events.
Catherine's parenting style has been described as nurturing and engaged, emphasizing the importance of creating a stable and loving environment for her children. In interviews, Catherine has spoken about the challenges and joys of motherhood. She has openly discussed experiencing mom guilt and the struggle to balance her royal duties with family life. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to being a present and involved mother. Her efforts to ensure her children lead as normal a life as possible are evident in their regular appearances at public events, where they often display typical childlike behavior.
The Waleses' country home, Anmer Hall, on the Sandringham Estate, is where Catherine's domestic skills truly shine. The 10-bedroom Georgian mansion, gifted to the couple by Queen Elizabeth II, has been their primary residence for several years. Here, Catherine is known to enjoy cooking, gardening, and engaging in various DIY projects. Anmer Hall serves as a retreat for the family, providing a sense of normalcy away from the pressures of royal life. It is said that Catherine often involves her children in household chores, teaching them the value of responsibility and hard work. The princess has a particular fondness for cooking and is known to prepare meals for her family, drawing inspiration from her childhood experiences and her mother, Carole.
Balancing royal duties with personal life is no small feat, yet Catherine manages to do so with grace and dedication. Her role as the Princess of Wales involves numerous public engagements, charity work, and representing the monarchy at various events. Despite a demanding schedule, Catherine prioritizes her family and ensures she is present for her children's important milestones.
In addition to her public and family responsibilities, Catherine has taken on several personal projects. She is an advocate for mental health, early childhood development, and various charitable causes. Her work with organizations such as Heads Together and the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood demonstrates her commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Catherine's approach to royal life has significantly impacted public perceptions of the monarchy. Her relatability and down-to-earth nature have endeared her to the public, making her one of the most beloved members of the royal family. By actively participating in household chores and child-rearing, she breaks away from traditional royal norms and sets an example of a modern, hands-on royal. Her efforts to balance personal and royal responsibilities also reflect the evolving role of women in the monarchy.
Catherine's ability to maintain a sense of normalcy for her family while fulfilling her royal duties showcases her resilience and dedication. She serves as a role model for many, demonstrating that it is possible to manage multiple roles with grace and authenticity.
