Whether for a gift idea, a secret Santa or a simple personal pleasure, the mail always has its effect.
Receiving mail stamped Kensington Palace, in the middle of the holiday season, is something of a joyful little uppercut in an often overloaded month of December. The idea circulates quickly and is intriguing, especially when we discover that it is not reserved for monarchy enthusiasts.
Curiosity set in as Internet users showed cards on Instagram signed with the names of Kate Middleton and Prince William. Because, yes, it seems surprising to be able to receive a greeting card from the princely couple so easily, especially when you know the ultra-codified image of the royal family. And yet, no courtship formula is required to participate in this tradition, nor any special knowledge of protocol. Moreover, the approach attracts fans of the Crown as much as those looking for an original nod for the holidays. It also gains visibility because the Christmas period coincides with the Princess of Wales’ birthday on January 9, encouraging some senders to slip two messages into one.
So, what is the procedure to follow to receive this famous letter? Simply send them your own card to the following address: Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales, Kensington Palace, London, United Kingdom, W8 4PX. No special protocol: a greeting message is enough. Obviously, remember to write your return address on the back of the envelope. It is this detail that will trigger the sending of a card in response, accompanied by a printed message and an official photo.
However, so many letters pass through the United Kingdom in December that the Post Office sets deadlines to hope for arrival before Christmas. In fact, you must send your letter by December 17 at the latest. Beyond this date, there is no guarantee of a response from the royal family.
Besides, know that if it doesn’t matter to you to hear from Kate and William, the trick also works for other members of the royal family. King Charles III and Queen Camilla, Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh also have official postal addresses, listed on the monarchy’s website. In short, it’s time to draw your best feather.
