Prince William and Princess Kate commemorated 15 years of marriage on Tuesday, April 29, 2026, sharing a new family photograph that includes their three children and the family dog. The anniversary marks a decade and a half since their highly publicized wedding at Westminster Abbey in London captivated audiences worldwide.
The couple's journey began in September 2001 when they met as students at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, where both studied history. Their relationship developed over their university years, though they maintained privacy about their romance during their education. The pair experienced a notable separation in 2007 before reconciling and announcing their engagement in November 2010.
Reflecting on that difficult period during a joint interview in November 2010, Kate shared: "At the time I wasn't very happy about it, but it actually made me a stronger person. You find out things about yourself that maybe you hadn't realized. I think you can get quite consumed by a relationship when you are younger, and I really valued that time for me as well although I didn't think it at the time."
The proposal itself took place during a private holiday in Kenya in October 2010. "We had been talking about marriage for a while so it wasn't a massively big surprise," William revealed during their first joint video interview. The prince later admitted to BBC's Tom Bradby that during their courtship, he attempted to impress his future wife by preparing "amazing fancy dinners."
Their wedding on April 29, 2011, featured Kate in a long-sleeve Alexander McQueen gown while William wore a red Irish Guards Mounted Officer's uniform. The ceremony at Westminster Abbey became a defining moment in modern royal history.
The couple has since welcomed three children: Prince George, born July 22, 2013; Princess Charlotte, born May 2, 2015; and Prince Louis, born April 23, 2018. All three children have accompanied their parents to significant royal events, including attending the annual Easter service at St George's Chapel in April 2022 and King Charles' coronation at Westminster Abbey in May 2023.
The family relocated from their longtime Kensington Palace residence to Windsor in June 2022 to be closer to Queen Elizabeth II and Kate's mother, Carole Middleton. A source noted at the time that the children were "really excited about going to a new school and being in the countryside in the fresh air where there's lots of space for them to play freely."
The couple has maintained an active public presence throughout their marriage, undertaking royal tours and championing various causes. In May 2021, they returned to the University of St Andrews during a royal tour of Scotland. "It was here in Scotland — 20 years ago this year — that I first met Catherine," William stated during an appearance at The Church of Scotland. "Needless to say, the town where you meet your future wife holds a very special place in your heart."
Their relationship faced its most significant challenge in 2024 when Kate was diagnosed with cancer and underwent preventative chemotherapy. William's support during this period proved crucial. "Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too, as is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you," Kate said in her March 22, 2024 announcement video. "It means so much to us both."
Upon completing her treatment in September 2024, Kate emphasized the strength of their partnership. "This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted," she stated. "Of simply loving and being loved."
William publicly honored his wife on her 43rd birthday in January 2025, writing: "To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you've shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W."
The couple has continued their royal duties throughout 2025 and into 2026, including hosting President Donald Trump during his second state visit to the United Kingdom in September 2025 and traveling to Ireland's Long Meadow Farm in October 2025, where they participated in making the farm's famous potato apple bread.
As they mark this significant milestone, the Prince and Princess of Wales continue to balance their public responsibilities with their commitment to family life. Their 15-year marriage has weathered personal challenges, public scrutiny, and the evolving demands of royal duty, emerging as a partnership that exemplifies both resilience and dedication to service.