Duchess Meghan - Birthday Reply (2019)

A lovely reply arrived this week from the UK. I had written to Duchess Meghan back in August for her birthday.

The front of the envelope is the usual from the British royals.

The back of the card features Harry & Meghan's joint monogram.

Inside is the typical photocard from Clarence House.

The front of the card features a photo by Doug Peters, a UK photographer. We know Clarence House always asks the photographer for permission before using the photo. Doug shared a bit about this experience on his Instagram:

Honoured to have my image of her chosen for the Sussex Royal birthday message. [...] Thanks to the team back at EMPICS and PA for tracking me down on a Saturday night to sort out a few last details to get this done.

The photo is from Prince Harry & Duchess Meghan's visit to Tonga during their 2018 Autumn Tour. I always like it when the royals use a tour photo, as it brings back memories of the trip. I remember on this day, Meghan was laughing a lot. So it is nice to look at the photo and know Meghan was really happy at that moment (+ she had just announced her pregnancy so everyone was super excited).

I think this photo is a better choice than last year's as Meghan is actually looking at the camera. And  I know a lot of people will frame these cards, so a headshot or full body like this, works best. It is a bit of a shame they choose a photo with the white blur on the edge. The lighting really isn't the best. But as Meghan was sitting in the shade under a canopy, while the photographers were standing in the sun, there isn't much you can do about that. 

The back of the card has the usual sort of birthday message from Clarence House. But they changed it up a little from last year.

The card reads:

The Duchess of Sussex was so touched by your very kind Birthday wishes. 

Her Royal Highness sends her warmest thanks for your thoughtfulness and wishes you all the best. 

Back to Replies - Main Page