How Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Celebrated Daughter Lilibet's 3rd Birthday

Princess Lilibet recently turned 3, and her parents, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, marked the occasion with a delightful pre-birthday celebration at their Montecito, Calif., residence surrounded by close friends and family. The intimate gathering was a heartwarming affair, filled with love and joy.

Last month, Meghan Markle, who shares two children with Harry, including son Prince Archie, 5, provided a rare glimpse into Lilibet's vibrant personality. The former "Suits" actress revealed that dance was Lilibet's favorite class, attributing her enthusiasm to the energetic movements and jumping involved.

During a speech at the Lightway Academy in Nigeria focusing on mental health, Markle recounted a touching moment with Lilibet where the young princess expressed a profound connection, saying, "Mama, I see me in you." This heartfelt exchange highlighted the strong bond between mother and daughter.

Despite their busy schedules, Markle expressed how much she missed her children while promoting mental health initiatives in Nigeria alongside Harry. On Mother's Day in America, Markle acknowledged the significance of being in the "motherland" and among family, underscoring the importance of familial connections.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who exchanged vows in May 2018, welcomed Archie in May 2019 and Lilibet in June 2021. The family of four currently resides in a luxurious $14 million mansion in Montecito, enjoying a private and serene lifestyle.

Relations between Harry, Meghan, and the royal family have been strained since the couple stepped back from their royal duties in 2020. Tensions escalated following the release of Harry's memoir, "Spare," and the couple's Netflix series, "Harry & Meghan," which shed light on their experiences within the royal institution.

Notably, the royal family chose not to publicly acknowledge Lilibet's 2nd birthday, a departure from their previous social media posts celebrating the occasion. Reports suggested that King Charles III and Queen Camilla refrained from marking the event online, citing a policy of not recognizing the birthdays of non-working members.

As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex navigate their unique path outside traditional royal roles, they continue to prioritize their family's well-being and pursue initiatives that align with their values and passions.