Royal watchers eager to see what a heavily pregnant and glowing Kate Middleton would wear to the wedding of William's best friend were disappointed when the Duchess of Cambridge pulled out of the high society event due to fears she might go into labour early.
Both William and Kate, who is probably giving birth in a matter of weeks, were expected to be guests of honour at the wedding of Thomas Van Straubenzee and the Duke of Northumberland's daughter Lady Melissa Percy at Alnwick Castle in the English county of Northumberland, according to the Daily Telegraph.
Given the wedding was nearly 500 kilometers away from London, perhaps it's not a surprise that Kate decided not to risk it.
"The birth may be a few weeks off, but there is still a very slim risk she could go into labour," a source told The Sun newspaper.
"Kate is gutted — as are Tom and Melissa — but she decided not to take any chances."
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Surprisingly, Kate Middleton's birth plans were also announced last week. The Duchess of Cambridge is said to give birth in the Lindo Wing of St. Mary’s Hospital in London, the same hospital where Will and younger brother Harry were born.
The birth announcement will "preserve the theatricality of the tradition," a source told the Mirror. A formal document announcing the birth will be carried from the hospital to Buckingham Palace by a royal aide and displayed on an easel. A digital announcement will also be made, but don't expect the news to break on Twitter.