Kate Middleton's Lady-In-Waiting: Who Is She and What Does She Do? (2024)

Just another royal perk! Not many people know that Kate Middleton has her own lady-in-waiting who helps tend to the duch*ess’ every want and need. So, who is Kate’s right-hand woman and what exactly does she do as part of her job? Scroll down to see everything you need to know about the special role!

What is a lady-in-waiting?

The lady-in-waiting role dates back centuries and every queen or princess in a royal family typically has one. Basically, the woman — who is usually British nobility or comes from a “good society” family —acts as a personal assistant and is definitely thought of as more of a companion than an employee. They are historically chosen by the princess or queen herself, the royal family, or both. Watch the video below for more info on ladies-in-waiting!

Who is Kate Middleton’s lady-in-waiting?

When Kate married into the royal family back in April 2011, it was heavily rumored that her younger sister, Pippa Middleton, might take on the coveted role. But, Prince George and Princess Charlotte‘s mom reportedly did not even want to have a lady-in-waiting as part of her “no frills” approach to being a royal.

In fact, Kate allegedly did not have a lady-in-waiting accompany her on her first post-wedding royal tour of Canada and California back in July 2011. “Kate is very low maintenance. She said she doesn’t want a lady-in-waiting. That may change but she’ll see how she copes on this tour,” a source told the Daily Mail at the time.

Kate Middleton's Lady-In-Waiting: Who Is She and What Does She Do? (1)

Kate with her former lady-in-waiting, Rebecca. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

However, in 2012, Kate did get her own lady-in-waiting, Rebecca Deacon! “She is the perfect companion because she is similar in age to Kate, is very organized, and has lovely manners,” an insider previously told The Mirror. As the duch*ess’ right-hand woman, Rebecca was primarily responsible for planning the mom-of-two’s busy schedule and accompanying her on all royal tours.

What happened to Rebecca Deacon?

Rebecca announced she was leaving her position as Kate’s lady-in-waiting in March 2017. “After a decade of service to The Duke and duch*ess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, Rebecca Deacon will be stepping down as Private Secretary to The duch*ess of Cambridge,” a statement released by Kensington Palace read. “Their Royal Highnesses are incredibly grateful for all the hard work and support Rebecca has provided over the past ten years, and wish her well in the next phase of her career.” Rebecca reportedly left the position because she got married and wanted to explore new job opportunities.

Kate Middleton's Lady-In-Waiting: Who Is She and What Does She Do? (2)

Catherine at a royal event in October 2017. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

Who is Catherine Quinn?

On Monday, July 31 it was announced that Kate had hired a new lady-in-waiting to be Rebecca’s replacement. Kensington Palace revealed Catherine Quinn — the former Chief Operating Officer and Associate Dean for Administration at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School — would be the duch*ess’ new personal assistant starting in October 2017. On Tuesday, Oct. 31, Catherine was publicly spotted with Kate for the first time during the duch*ess’ visit to London’s National Tennis Centre. According to the Daily Mail, Catherine’s “heavyweight appointment suggests [Kate] plans to carve out a more serious role for herself with her patronages and charity campaigning” in the future.

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Kate Middleton's Lady-In-Waiting: Who Is She and What Does She Do? (2024)

FAQs

What were the duties of a lady-in-waiting? ›

Ladies-in-waiting performed intimate duties such as putting on and removing the queen's clothing and bathing her. They were expected to put her needs above those of their own husbands and children. They spent most of the day with the queen and provided her with companionship and entertainment in her private chambers.

Who is Catherine's lady-in-waiting? ›

María de Salinas, Baroness Willoughby de Eresby (c. 1490 – 1539) was an English noblewoman and courtier from Spain. She was a confidante and lady-in-waiting to Catherine of Aragon, Queen of England.

Does duch*ess Kate have ladies-in-waiting? ›

In Britain, ladies-in-waiting are titled noblewomen who serve not only the queen, but also high-ranking women in the royal household. Kate Middleton has one, while the queen's sister Princess Margaret had many.

How much does a lady-in-waiting get paid? ›

Like other ladies-in-waiting, she is not paid for the role and continues to serve out of personal loyalty to the Queen. When the Queen was still travelling the globe in her role as Head of State, Lady Susan was by her side.

What does a lady-in-waiting mean in England? ›

plural ladies-in-waiting. : a lady appointed to attend or wait on a queen or princess.

Is lady-in-waiting an honor? ›

Lady-in-waiting or court lady is often a generic term for women whose relative rank, title, and official functions varied, although such distinctions were also often honorary.

What does Kate do all day? ›

Kate's daily routine: school run, food shop, gym

Regularly dropping the children at school and doing the daily food shopping on nearby Kensington High Street, the duch*ess also prefers to swap the indoor gym at the Palace for runs in Kensington Gardens.

Does Kate Middleton use a nanny? ›

Prince William and Kate Middleton's relationship timeline

Spanish born Borrallo has been the Cambridge's live-in nanny since 2014, joining their team when Prince George was just eight-months-old.

Does Kate have a maid? ›

How many maids does Kate have? William and Kate are working royals who also have three young children. They reportedly have a nanny and one or two housekeepers.

Why do royals have ladies-in-waiting? ›

In the position, the women are tasked with supporting her as she carries out her official and state duties. It is believed the women will have similar responsibilities as the Queen's ladies in waiting, who have now been given the role of ladies of the household to assist the King instead.

Do ladies-in-waiting live with the queen? ›

She began serving the Queen in 2017. The ladies in waiting did not live at the Royal residences on a permanent basis. However, if their duties required they would stay in Royal apartments in London or within Buckingham Palace to be near the Queen, The National reports.

Who is the queen's closest lady-in-waiting? ›

Lady Susan Hussey, Queen's confidante and Prince William's godmother - profile - BBC News.

What happens to queen's lady-in-waiting? ›

The confidante was Elizabeth II's lady in waiting for more than 60 years. T he late Queen's loyal lady-in-waiting, Lady Susan Hussey, spent decades serving as one of Elizabeth II's closest confidantes. She was dubbed the monarch's 'number one head girl' but has now resigned amid a race row.

Who dresses the Queen every day? ›

Angela Kelly (born 4 November 1957, Liverpool) was taken on as a dresser in 1993 after working as a housekeeper for a British diplomat. She has served as Personal Assistant and Senior Dresser to Queen Elizabeth II since 2002 and creates all of her outfits, from day dresses to evening gowns.

Do Kate and William get along? ›

This royal couple are literally destined to be King and Queen of England, and as such, their relationship is extremely, well, polished. No one knows what really goes on behind the gilded doors of Kensington Palace, but Kate and William's love story has always been presented as a fairy tale. And it probably is!

Does Kate have to curtsy to Camilla? ›

Regardless of her royal status, Kate Middleton is expected to show her respect to certain members of her family by way of curtsying. That said, she doesn't have to — and is not supposed to — curtsy to everyone. Like other royal family protocols, there are strict rules about who curtsies (or bows) to who.

How do you address a lady-in-waiting? ›

Unless the writer is personally known to the member of the Royal Family, it is usual to write to the private secretary, equerry, Queen's Companion (for The Queen Consort), lady-in-waiting or lady of the household. Letters should be addressed to the holder of the office, not by name.

What does Kate call the Queen? ›

What name does Kate call the Queen? What Kate called the Queen. While the rest of the world is required to address Queen Elizabeth as Ma'am or your majesty, those closest to her are allowed to refer to her as Mama, according to Ingrid Seward, the editor of Majesty magazine.

Do the royals wipe themselves? ›

Do the royals wipe themselves? Nowadays they wipe themselves because it's modern times. Historically, the Groom of the Stool wiped them and it was just about the most coveted position at court.

How many ladies-in-waiting does the Queen have? ›

Queen Elizabeth II maintained an establishment of at least four Women of the Bedchamber, one of whom at a time was usually in attendance, until her death in 2022.

What is the difference between a handmaiden and a lady-in-waiting? ›

What is the difference between a handmaiden and a lady-in-waiting? Lady's maid are usually paid servants. Ladies - in - waiting are Titled lady friends of the Queen, they would be friends and traveling companions, they would receive expenses but nothing else.

Why does Kate always carry a purse? ›

Etiquette expert Myka Meier revealed that Kate holds her bags in her left hand so she can keep her right hand free to greet and shake hands with guests at the many public functions she attends as a royal. And Kate isn't the only royal to do this.

What dress size is Princess Kate? ›

How size 4 Kate Middleton got THAT incredible 24 inch waist - even after three kids. SHE may have three kids and a hectic schedule, but Kate Middleton has managed to maintain an enviable 24 inch waist over the years. Although she has proudly showed off her baby bumps during her pre…

What does Kate Middleton have for breakfast? ›

The 40-year-old is said to start her day with oats, which are heavy in protein, carbs, and fiber, and then follow that with a breakfast drink consisting of nutrient-dense foods, according to hair specialists at Longevita.

How much does a royal nanny get paid? ›

According to FEMAIL, newly qualified nannies can earn up to £42,000 for a non-residential role while some earn up to £120,000 after a few years' experience. This attractive salary also includes the benefits of designer handbags, trips abroad and luxurious living quarters.

Who does Kate Middleton teeth? ›

According to Dr. Rhona, Dr. Didier Fillion created Kate's smile with braces that go behind the teeth.

Does Kate Middleton have tattoo? ›

We're not about to tell you Kate has a constellation of stars up her spine, but she has been partial to semi-permanent inking.

Does Princess Kate ever cook? ›

"I do a mean steak," he said. "My sauces come out quite dry or lumpy — I've got to work on those!" Kate, 41, and Prince William have spoken before about their favorite foods as well as cooking and baking with their kids, Prince George, 9, Princess Charlotte, 7, and Prince Louis, 4.

Does Kate do housework? ›

It's no secret that Prince William and Kate Middleton rely on a team of expert staff to help look after their home, which just so happens to be in Kensington Palace.

Does Kate Middleton cook dinner? ›

In fact, Kate Middleton is said to enjoy relaxing after a long day by cooking for her family. The Princess often prepares dinner for husband Prince William and children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Why do royals sleep alone? ›

As an old tradition dictates, royal couples never share the same bed or bedroom, allowing them to move freely while asleep. It allows them much needed alone time after hours of being in the limelight.

What is the male equivalent to lady-in-waiting? ›

Lords-in-waiting (male) or baronesses-in-waiting (female) are peers who hold office in the Royal Household of the sovereign of the United Kingdom.

Does the Queen sleeps alone? ›

Yes you read that right. Apparently a lot of posh people actually prefer to sleep in separate beds, including the Queen and her man. As etiquette expert Lady Pam and Her Majesty's cousin explained in a biography about her relative: "In England, the upper class always have had separate bedrooms.

Who inherits the Queen's Jewels? ›

The Queen Consort, really, gets first choice of the Queen's jewelry. And after that is Princess of Wales, of course, Kate.

How much do the Queen's staff get paid? ›

The average The Royal Household salary ranges from approximately £15,330 per year for Cleaner to £57,446 per year for Procurement Manager. Average The Royal Household hourly pay ranges from approximately £9.09 per hour for Housekeeper to £12.12 per hour for Customer Service Team Lead.

Who does Meghan have to curtsy to? ›

According to protocol, Meghan is supposed to curtsy to those who outrank her. This includes the Queen, Prince Phillip, Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla. Because William is due to be the future King of England, he also receives a curtsy, and by extension so does Kate Middleton.

What soap does the Queen use? ›

Royal residences reportedly keep Yardley soaps on-hand, and per Marie Claire, private guests to Windsor Castle are given Yardley products, too.

What time does the Queen go to bed? ›

It's said that in order to feel fresh for her daily appointments the Queen always went to bed at the same time every night, 11pm, and slept for eight and a half hours – meaning she woke at 7.30am each day. It's so simple.

Which queen wore a lot of makeup? ›

She took to wearing white lead makeup to cover the scars. In later life, she suffered the loss of her hair and her teeth, and in the last few years of her life, she refused to have a mirror in any of her rooms. So, because of her vanity, perhaps we shall never know exactly what Elizabeth I (1533 – 1603) looked like.

Why do William and Kate not show affection? ›

Kate Middleton and Prince William don't often hold hands or publicly show affection. An unwritten rule saying royals must act professionally could be why they rarely engage in PDA. During rare occasions, the pair's been seen holding hands or touching each other's backs.

Do Kate and Meghan get along well? ›

In August 2021, a separate source exclusively told Us that Meghan and Kate's relationship had been getting better in recent months. “Meghan and Kate are actually getting along really well and have been in touch more often,” the insider explained. “Meghan and Kate's relationship was never that close.

Can William and Kate touch in public? ›

Why can't Prince William and Kate Middleton show affection in public? Here is what we know. Even while mourning the pair value their duties. The Prince and Princess of Wales are known for refraining their public displays of affection, other than subtly touching each other's arm.

What were the responsibilities of a lady? ›

As a wife, she is expected to serve her husband, preparing food, clothing and other personal needs. As a mother, she has to take care of the children and their needs, including education. As a worker, she has to be professional, disciplined and a good employee.

Whats the difference between a lady's maid and a lady-in-waiting? ›

Originally Answered: What was the difference between a lady-in-waiting's tasks and a lady's maid's tasks? NO. Lady's maid are usually paid servants. Ladies - in - waiting are Titled lady friends of the Queen, they would be friends and traveling companions, they would receive expenses but nothing else.

What does it mean to be someone lady-in-waiting? ›

/ˌleɪ.di.ɪnˈweɪ.tɪŋ/ plural ladies-in-waiting. a woman whose job is to help a queen or other woman of high social position. SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases. People who help or serve people professionally.

Does a lady-in-waiting have to be a noble? ›

✦ Ladies-in-waiting are the vital part of any royal household. Historically, they were chosen from noble families of ranks lower than their mistresses. However, nowadays, it is not necessary for a lady-in-waiting to come from a noble family. However, they are known to the queen.

What is the secret of a good wife? ›

Caring and compassionate

A good wife exhibits both care and compassion. She is sensitive to the family's needs, and does her best to provide a solution. She understands when her husband is frustrated, and tries to make him happy. Her caring disposition makes sure the family does not lack in any aspect of life.

What does the Bible say about a woman covering her body? ›

[6] For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. [7] For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.

What is a woman's job according to the Bible? ›

Be a helper to your husband.

While all of us are called to be helpers to others, the Bible places a special emphasis on this responsibility for wives. Genesis tells us that God realized it wasn't good for man to be alone, and that He decided to make a “helper fit” (Genesis 2:18).

What do you call a male lady-in-waiting? ›

gentleman-in-waiting.

How does the queen choose her ladies-in-waiting? ›

Ladies-in-waiting were appointed because of their social status as members of the nobility, on the recommendation of court officials, or other prominent citizens, and because they were expected to be supporters of the royal family due to their own family relationships.

How many lady-in-waiting does the queen have? ›

Queen Elizabeth II maintained an establishment of at least four Women of the Bedchamber, one of whom at a time was usually in attendance, until her death in 2022.

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