Since the moment Meghan Markle and Prince Harry became an item back in 2016, the couple has been known for their open displays of affection during royal appearances. Back then, they weren’t afraid to hold hands, hug, or share a loving glance in front of the cameras. But now that they're officially married, things have shifted a bit. At 33 and 36 respectively, Harry and Meghan have chosen to tone down their public displays of affection, particularly when they're in the presence of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.
Respecting Royal Tradition
According to People magazine, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are making an effort to honor the "stoic values" of the Queen and Prince Philip’s generation. While they were more open with their affection during their engagement, now that they're married, they're choosing to follow a more reserved approach. It's all about showing respect for the traditions and customs of the monarchy, even as they bring their own modern flair to the royal family.
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Why Hand-Holding Matters
During their engagement, Harry and Meghan weren’t shy about holding hands, and it was a gesture that many people loved. As royal etiquette expert Myka Meier, founder and director of Beaumont Etiquette, explained to People, "While Prince Harry and Meghan holding hands is unusual for royal engagements, it's a gesture that celebrates their unity and joy during their engagement period. There’s no official protocol that says they can’t show affection during official events, and this made them relatable and endearing to the public."
Meier continued, "It’s rare to see royal couples holding hands during official outings. While we don’t often see Prince William and Kate Middleton doing it, we do see Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall holding hands. It all comes down to personal preference for each couple, as well as the nature of the event they’re attending. A more serious engagement might call for a higher level of professionalism, which every royal is sure to follow."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wuV-agbb1k
A Change in Approach
While Prince William and Kate Middleton have traditionally avoided public displays of affection during their royal duties, Harry and Meghan took a different path. They introduced their romance to the world by holding hands at the Invictus Games in Toronto back in September 2017. It was a bold move that captured the hearts of many, but now that they’re married, they’re choosing a more traditional route.
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