Being a member of royalty has numerous advantages — vast wealth, residing in majestic castles and palaces, and having a devoted following across the globe. But being a ‘royal’ also involves sticking to specific expectations and conduct suitable for a prince or princess.

At the Chelsea Flower Show, Kate Middleton, the 41-year-old Princess of Wales declined to sign autographs during a surprise visit at the inaugural Children’s Picnic where she shared this unspoken royal rule with the elementary school-aged children present.

“My name’s Catherine. I’m not allowed to write my signature, it’s just one of those rules,” Middleton told the children when asked why she could not sign autographs.

“I can’t write my name,” Middleton said, according to People Magazine, “but I can draw.”

The princess created a floral drawing for a 7-year-old girl named Ruby, sketched a tree for another young girl, and depicted a pond adorned with flowers for yet another child.

Why Middleton Can’t sign autographs?

Members of the British Royal Family are advised not to sign autographs primarily due to security concerns and the potential for misuse of their signatures. Other reasons include:

Consistency – The Royal Family follows a protocol of maintaining consistency in their public image and behavior. By avoiding signing autographs, they ensure that their signatures are not associated with any particular cause, endorsement, or favoritism. It helps maintain impartiality and neutrality, which are essential for their role as figureheads representing the nation.

Time Management – Given the extensive public engagements and responsibilities that members of the Royal Family have, signing autographs could consume a significant amount of their time during public appearances. Their primary focus is often to interact with as many people as possible, convey greetings, and engage in meaningful conversations rather than engaging in individual autograph requests.

Personal Safety?

By avoiding autograph requests, they minimize physical contact with individuals they may not be familiar with. This precaution is in place to ensure their safety and reduce the risk of any potential harm or compromising situations.

It’s worth noting that while signing autographs is generally discouraged, there are exceptions and occasions where members of the Royal Family might make exceptions, such as signing official documents or guest books during formal engagements.

Photo above is from Instagram