Kate Middleton ‘Once Made a Wild, Festive Demand of Prince William’

Another insider added: “It wasn’t an act of defiance – it was about setting clear boundaries and making sure she was recognized as more than just a friend within the very traditional royal family.”

The couple eventually became engaged in November 2010, before marrying at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011. They have since welcomed three children: Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.

This year the family of five will join King Charles, 77, and Queen Camilla, 78, at Sandringham for the traditional Christmas festivities.

The gathering in Norfolk will also include Zara and Mike Tindall and their three children – Mia, Lena and Lucas – as well as Princess Anne, with her husband Sir Timothy Laurence.

Queen Camilla’s children will not be present this year. A source close to the couple said Kate and William are aiming to balance royal duties with family priorities.