“Sending warm wishes for a joyous and serene Christmas and New Year,” read the message. The Princess Royal, signing off as “from Anne,” gracefully drew a line beneath her name. This year, her chosen photograph captured a poignant moment from Garter Day, an event where members of the esteemed Order of the Garter, a title Anne has held since 1994, parade through Windsor donned in regal attire. The image depicted Anne clad in her Garter robes, seated in a carriage beside her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence. The card arrived in commemoration of Princess Anne and Sir Tim’s 32nd wedding anniversary, a union that began in December 1992 at Crathie Kirk, a charming church nestled near the royal family’s Scottish abode, Balmoral Castle.
On Garter Day, Princess Anne beamed and waved at the crowd as she gracefully rode through the streets in a carriage with her beloved husband by her side. This cherished tradition of Garter Day captures a moment of unity and splendor, highlighting the grace and nobility of the royal couple as they partake in this grand procession through the historic town of Windsor.
In a similar spirit of festive cheer, King Charles and Queen Camilla recently unveiled their own annual Christmas card, featuring a stunning portrait of the royal pair taken amidst the tranquil surroundings of the gardens at Buckingham Palace. This tradition of exchanging Christmas cards among the royal family dates back centuries, with the Royal Collection Trust noting that the practice began with the advent of the ‘penny post’ in 1843. Over the years, members of the Royal Family have chosen to share a glimpse of their personal lives through these heartfelt holiday greetings, often selecting a cherished family photograph to convey their warm wishes to loved ones near and far.
As the holiday season unfolds, these cherished traditions serve as a reminder of the enduring bonds of love, unity, and joy that connect us all. From the grandeur of Garter Day to the intimate moments captured in a Christmas card portrait, each image and gesture carries with it the essence of tradition, family, and celebration. As we embark on a new year filled with hope and promise, let us treasure these timeless traditions that bring us closer together and remind us of the beauty and magic of the holiday season.
