Prince William and Princess Kate are celebrating 14 years of marriage as they navigate one of the most challenging periods of their relationship, strengthened by Kate's recent remission from cancer and growing royal responsibilities.
The Prince and Princess of Wales will mark their anniversary with a two-day trip to the Isle of Mull, staying in a self-catering cottage while carrying out engagements. Their milestone comes after a turbulent year, during which Kate revealed her cancer diagnosis and William shouldered increasing duties as heir to the throne following Queen Elizabeth II's death.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond said the couple's relationship is "even stronger than before," adding, "Their first anniversary after Catherine's official remission has to be that extra bit special. Every milestone takes them that little bit further away from the dreadful day when she was diagnosed with cancer."
Bond emphasized that their relationship is anchored by mutual respect and an equal partnership. "William is a much more hands-on dad than his father or grandfather," she said. "And I don't think Catherine would let him get away with anything less." She noted that their shared history at the University of St Andrews forged a deep understanding. "They operate as a partnership and they have such a deep understanding of one another that they can communicate when they are out and about with just a look or a gesture."
Kate and William first met as university students in 2001, and after a brief split in 2007, they rekindled their relationship and married in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey in 2011. Reflecting on their early years, Kate once remarked, "You know, over the years William has looked after me, he's treated me very well - as the loving boyfriend he is, he is very supportive of me through the good times and through the bad times."
Since their marriage, the couple has taken on an increasingly prominent role in public life, balancing royal engagements with parenting Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. In recent years, they have shown greater public displays of affection, a shift from the early days of their marriage. Last year, a video marking Kate's remission showed William tenderly embracing his wife on a beach.
Bond observed, "I think this gives us all the chance to see first-hand that theirs is a true love match, built on the strongest of all foundations: friendship and the shared experience of university life." She added, "Cancer must make you realise that life is short and is for living and loving. If they feel like touching or holding hands when they are in public, then why the hell not?"
Their bond is also evident in their playful public interactions. At the recent Six Nations rugby match between Wales and England in Cardiff, the couple's mischievous smiles and teasing captured public attention. Kate often laughs at William's quips, showcasing their shared sense of humor.
As they celebrate this anniversary, Bond suggested that William may present Kate with a special gift. "Traditionally ivory was the gift for the 14th wedding anniversary but obviously that's illegal these days," she said. "Maybe a beautiful golden elephant necklace or pair of elephant earrings might do the job."
Ahead, the couple faces significant decisions, including where to send Prince George for secondary school as he turns 13 next year. William's Homewards initiative to combat homelessness and Kate's advocacy for early childhood development also remain core focuses.
However, the weight of their eventual ascension to the throne looms larger, especially with King Charles undergoing cancer treatment. "Together they are facing the challenge of becoming King and Queen, possibly rather earlier than anticipated, given the King's cancer," Bond said. "That must weigh heavily on them, but, together, they are strong."
