On a sunny afternoon in London, all eyes were on the Princess of Wales as she stepped into the spotlight at Buckingham Palace for one of the most anticipated royal events of the season — the annual garden party.
But this year’s gathering carried extra weight, blending tradition with heartfelt tributes and deeply personal memories.
Looking radiant in a familiar yellow Emilia Wickstead dress and a classic Phillip Treacy hat, Kate Middleton, 43, walked the Palace grounds alongside Prince William, who donned a sharp three-piece suit and top hat.
This marked her return to the event after missing last year due to her own cancer treatment — a powerful and quiet statement of resilience.
A Return to Royal Duties with Familiar Faces
It wasn’t just the Prince and Princess of Wales representing the Firm this time.
They were joined by fellow royals Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall — a generational show of unity.
Also in attendance were the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, with Sophie looking elegant in a Beulah dress paired with a Jane Taylor hat, as well as the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
Although King Charles wasn’t present in person, the event was still formally recognized as The King’s Garden Party, held on his behalf in the lush gardens of the royal residence at St James’s Park.
Honouring a Remarkable Young Life: Liz Hatton’s Family Among Special Guests
Amid the garden party’s elegance and ceremony, one invitation stood out — extended to the family of Liz Hatton, a 17-year-old cancer campaigner and talented photographer from Harrogate who captured the nation’s heart.
Liz passed away in November 2024 after a brave battle with Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumour, a rare and aggressive cancer.
In her final months, Liz poured her energy into a photography “bucket list,” determined to make the most of her time.
When Prince William heard about her story, he invited her to photograph an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle last October.
To the family’s surprise, Liz was also invited for tea with both William and Kate — a quiet, deeply human gesture that stayed with them.
A Hug That Went Viral and a Legacy That Lives On
A photo of Kate embracing Liz during that meeting soon went viral, and the outpouring of support for Liz’s remaining wishes was immediate.
The public and organisations rallied to help her complete her dreams — including an assignment at the Daily Mail.
Though Liz hoped to make it to Christmas and celebrate early with her beloved younger brother, Mateo, she sadly passed away just before, on November 27.
In a final act of selflessness, Liz chose to donate her body to medical science, hoping to help future research into the cancer that took her life.
Her body was transported to Glasgow University, where students continue to study her condition.
The Waleses Remain a Steady Source of Support
Since Liz’s passing, her mother, Vicky Robayna, has repeatedly expressed how deeply moved she’s been by the continued kindness of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
At a December memorial, Vicky shared how the couple had stayed in touch: “They have been so incredibly kind.
They check in on us often. Their support has meant so much.”
The family also attended Kate’s Together at Christmas Carol Service at Westminster Abbey — an emotional yet healing experience.
“We almost didn’t go,” Vicky admitted, “but it was beautiful. Liz would’ve wanted us there. William and Kate really helped us through it.”
A Modern Garden Party That Balances Tradition and Humanity
Every summer, the Royal Family hosts four of these garden parties — three at Buckingham Palace and one at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Scotland.
What once served as a formal debut into society has now evolved into a celebration of public service, community heroes, and remarkable citizens from all walks of life.
The guest list includes up to 8,000 individuals nominated by local authorities, faith communities, and charitable organisations.
Attendees enjoy tea, music, and strolls through the Palace gardens, often encountering senior royals along the way.
Each royal walks a designated path — or “lane” — making spontaneous introductions and chatting with guests before arriving at the Royal Tea Tent to meet even more people.
Remembering Other Guests with Powerful Stories
Among other notable attendees was Steven Frank, a Holocaust survivor photographed by Kate in 2020 as part of a project commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of the Holocaust.
The Prince and Princess also took the opportunity to connect with individuals involved in causes close to their hearts — including patrons and advocates from Homewards, Action for Children, Ty Hafan, and Duchy of Cornwall tenants.
A Day That Blended Grace, Strength, and Tribute
This year’s garden party was more than a formal gathering.
It was a quiet reminder of the human stories behind the royal spotlight — from Kate’s return to public duty amid her health journey to the enduring memory of a young girl who left a mark on everyone she met.
And in the gardens of Buckingham Palace, where tradition meets compassion, Liz Hatton’s legacy — and the Waleses’ continued devotion — stood as the truest form of royal grace.