The announcement of the engagement between Prince William and Princess Kate on November 16, 2010, remains an unforgettable moment for royal enthusiasts.
Prince William introduced his university sweetheart, now fiancée, to the world during a press event held at the State Apartments of St James’s Palace. Kate Middleton, glowing in a royal blue Issa wrap dress, stood beside William as they faced the cameras. The dress perfectly complemented her stunning engagement ring—Princess Diana’s iconic oval diamond and Ceylon sapphire piece.
While the couple appeared composed and joyful, royal photographer Arthur Edwards revealed a different story behind the scenes. Edwards recalled that Kate was visibly nervous during the engagement photocall, especially when he tried to capture a close-up of her ring.
Her hands were trembling so much that Prince William had to steady her hand for the photo. “She was so nervous, her hand was shaking. He had to hold her hand steady so I could photograph it,” Edwards shared, as reported on Instagram by @uk_royal_follower.
Reflecting on the significance of the ring, William said during the event: “It’s very special, as Kate is very special. It’s my way of making sure my mother didn’t miss out on today and the excitement.”
Kate’s pre-wedding jitters were not limited to the photocall. A clip from their engagement interview, recently trending on TikTok, captured her candid admission about becoming a working royal. When asked how she felt about joining the royal family, she responded nervously: “It’s obviously nerve-wracking because I don’t know what I’m doing—I sort of don’t know the ropes really.”
Despite stumbling over her words, Kate smiled and reassured viewers: “I’m willing to learn quickly and work hard.”
In the same interview, William affectionately reassured his future wife, patting her thigh and gently squeezing her knee as he added, “She’ll do really well.” The sweet gesture melted fans’ hearts, prompting many to comment on the “romantic” and supportive moment between the couple.
