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Marie Claire
Marie Claire
Lifestyle
Amy Mackelden

Expert Says Princess Kate and Prince William's "Partnership" Is Crucial to the Royal Family's Future, as Couple Shares Rare Valentine's Day Snap

Prince William and Kate Middleton at the Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall on November 19, 2025 in London, England.

Valentine's Day is the perfect time to reflect on important relationships and romances. For instance, according to one royal expert, Princess Kate and Prince William's "partnership and love story" is integral to the future of the British monarchy. And judging by the couple's Valentine's Day post in 2026, their relationship is stronger than ever.

Writing for Hello! magazine, royal expert Emily Nash reflected on Kate and William's decision to share a previously unseen photo for Valentine's Day. "The image, which was shared alongside a Happy Valentine's Day message, shows that, unlike generations before them, they are leading the charge in demonstrating their love following a difficult year for the future Queen."

The photograph of Kate and William was taken by Josh Shinner, and shows the couple posing outdoors in the countryside in Norfolk, England. The Prince and Princess of Wales own a home, Anmer Hall in Norfolk, close to the Sandringham estate.

"Happy Valentine's Day." (Image credit: Instagram/@princeandprincessofwales/Josh Shinner)

As noted by Nash, Kate and William's decision to be more public with their affection for one another is a huge shift from the Royal Family's previous policy. "William and Kate's partnership and love story are central to the future of the monarchy, and they are not afraid to show their affection for one another," the expert wrote in Hello! magazine.

"Traditionally, the royals have tended to avoid public displays of affection," Nash explained. "...But William and Kate clearly mean the world to one another, so they are happy to celebrate their love story with the world."

"William and Kate clearly mean the world to one another." (Image credit: Getty Images)

With their romantic 2026 Valentine's Day social media post, Kate and William are further confirming just how solid their relationship really is. As the future King and Queen, it appears as though Kate and William are prepared for whatever life throws at them.

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