As Prince William’s wife Catherine enters her final weeks of pregnancy, royal officials released new details surrounding the birth of the next heir to the throne. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge expect to welcome their bundle of joy on July 13, according to Time. That’s right Kate Middleton’s due date is expected in mid July. But just in case little Will or Kate arrives early, here are the latest details on the royal baby.
When will you first hear the royal baby is on the way? Well if you want to know the minute Kate goes into labor, you’re out of luck. To cut down on media frenzy, officials will alert the public only after Kate has been admitted to the hospital and settled into her room. Prince William plans to be by Kate’s side during the birth, according to palace officials.
Kate will give birth in the Lindo Wing of St. Mary’s Hospital in London, the same hospital where both William and Harry were born. Royal gynecologist Dr. Marcus Setchell and his medical team will oversee the delivery. The pricy, private wing is a state-of-the art medical facility with a few added perks, including private bath and “comprehensive wine list,” according to CNN. A necessary luxury if you want to give the baby a royal welcome. Cheers, Kate.
The actual birth announcement will both honor tradition and embrace modern social media, a fitting reflection of the next generation of royal families. After first informing Queen Elizabeth II and other family members, an official signed bulletin will be given to a royal aide who, with the help of a police escort, will rush to Buckingham Palace. The bulletin will be posted on an easel in the palace forecourt for the world to see. On the document will be the child’s gender, weight, and time of birth. Simultaneously to the ceremonial bulletin announcement, the birth will be posted on Twitter, twenty-first century style.
When will you first get a glimpse of newest addition to the royal family? The couple will likely do the same as Charles and Diana and pose for pictures when they leave the hospital, reports People.
Queen Elizabeth II will not visit the hospital as she will be summering at the family’s Balmoral Estate in Scotland. It is assumed they will take the baby to her. She is the Queen…
The name announcement is less certain. William’s name was released several days after leaving the hospital while Charles and Diana announced Harry’s name much sooner. It seems everyone in Britain is getting in on the name game, and betting on the winner. The leading contender seems to be Alexandra, the Queen’s middle name (no Kaidence Donda for Will and Kate.) But place your bets soon! The royal baby is on his or her way.
Image via People Magazine
