Harriet Phillips Recalls Her First Time Meeting Princess Kate and Initial Royal Nerves
Harriet spoke about being welcomed into Peter's family and shared that she had a particularly positive experience with William and Kate.
Harriet Phillips officially became part of the British royal family when she married Princess Anne's son, Peter Phillips, in a beautiful ceremony on June 6, 2026. The couple tied the knot at All Saints Church in Kemble, Gloucestershire, surrounded by senior royals gathered to celebrate their special day. From King Charles and Queen Camilla to Prince William and Princess Kate, the monarchy's core members were right by their side. While Harriet has now settled into her role as a royal bride, her initial introduction to the family was understandably nerve-wracking. She has since shared her first reaction to meeting Kate and reflected on how their bond has grown over the months.
In an exclusive interview with HELLO!, Harriet spoke about how she was welcomed into her husband's family and revealed that she had an especially positive experience with William and Kate. She shared that it was actually their kids that brought them closer. Harriet, who is a mother to 14-year-old Georgina, married Peter, who shares daughters Savannah, 15, and Isla, 14, with his former wife, Autumn Kelly. The children reportedly played a part in helping the families bond when they happened to be on holiday in the same place as the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Revealing details, she shared, "I've had an incredible experience [being welcomed in]. We happened to be on holiday in the same place. It was great because the children were all jumping into the water at the same time. It was very casual, but there is a clear level of respect there." Further in the conversation, she praised Kate, describing her as someone she could comfortably approach whenever she needed advice. Harriet added, "I can look to Catherine for advice and guidance. She's very open-hearted, and I would always feel comfortable asking her if I needed advice about something." Other than being close to Kate, Harriet also shares a good bond with Peter's sister, Zara Tindall, as they live in the same Gatcombe Park Estate in Gloucestershire.
For the unversed, Harriet's relationship with the royal family had been developing long before her wedding. She and Peter first met in 2022 and began dating in 2024. They made their public debut together at the Badminton Horse Trials in May that year. Over the next few years they took time to get comfortable around each other and their families before finally tying the knot in 2026.
