Kate Middleton Put Family First Before Wedding
Princess Kate reportedly set a clear personal boundary before she married Prince William in 2011, insisting that her family would remain her top priority even after joining the royal family—an approach that continues to shape how the Prince and Princess of Wales balance public duty with private life.
InStyle reported that royal biographer Mr Robert Jobson wrote in his 2024 book Catherine, The Princess of Wales: The Biography that Kate presented terms to both Queen Elizabeth II and then-Prince Charles ahead of the April 29, 2011 wedding, with her “No. 1 stipulation” being that her family would come before any and all royal duties.
According to Jobson, Kate “established some fundamental life rules” she intended to keep after joining “The Firm,” and was “clear from the outset” that she would not be pigeonholed into particular duties. Jobson added that “her priority, she emphasized, would always be her family,” while noting that the couple would still carry out their share of engagements.
The emphasis on family has been especially visible since the births of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, with Jobson writing that the couple believe being good parents is their most important role. Related reporting has also examined the pressures around royal relationships, including claims that Prince William reportedly “held a grudge” over a perceived snub involving Prince Andrew.
The account offers fresh insight into how Kate approached her transition into royal life, and why her public work is often framed around long-term stability at home as well as duty—an issue that remains central as the Waleses’ roles continue to evolve within the monarchy.
