The Prince and Princess of Wales have often ripped up the royal rule book, and following their own instincts when it comes to decision making has ultimately become an important part of their public image - whether it's how they parent their three young children, or the fact that they defied royal tradition during their 2011 wedding. The couple has also been praised for modernising the monarchy in recent years, taking a more relaxed and relatable approach to their duties.
Royal experts have claimed that Kate is the family's biggest asset, and 'holds the future of the monarchy in her hands'. However, when William and Kate first went public with their relationship, much was made of the fact that Kate had no aristocratic lineage and was considered to be a 'commoner' by royal standards. So when the time comes for Kate to take on the role of Queen Consort, she will be making history as the first common-born Queen of England since Elizabeth Woodville, who married King Edward IV in 1464 and was officially crowned a year later.
