The world watched closely as Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were named. During a visit to the Royal Surrey County Hospital, Catherine discussed the stress she felt when choosing names for her three beloved children. Amy Stubbs, deputy head of obstetrics at the hospital, noted Catherine’s easy-going nature and openness about motherhood. Stubbs highlighted Katherine’s warmth and approachability in her interactions with other parents. Catherine shared her parenting experiences and the careful thought behind her children’s names, expressing that they were her favourites.
However, she also acknowledged the considerable pressure of knowing the public was waiting for her decision. Catherine and Prince William welcomed their first child, Prince George Alexander Louis, on 22 July 2013. They chose their baby's name carefully, taking into account its historical and personal significance. George is a name rich in royal history, having been given by six British monarchs, including King George VI, father of Queen Elizabeth II. The choice reflected continuity in the royal lineage and honored the Queen's beloved father.
The announcement of George's name came two days after his birth, during which Catherine affectionately referred to him as "our little one", suggesting that she suspected he was a boy based on his movements. Many celebrated the reveal, as George was a popular choice among gamblers. When Princess Charlotte was born on 2 May 2015, William and Catherine once again carefully considered a name that honored both personal taste and royal tradition. Charlotte, derived from Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, has a royal connection.
Her full name, Charlotte Elizabeth Diana, honors both Queen Elizabeth and William's late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. Royal fans loved the choice, seeing it as a connection between the young princess and her ancestors. On April 23, 2018, Catherine and William welcomed their youngest child, Prince Louis Arthur Charles. The name Louis, which means "famous warrior," has special significance as one of William's middle names and a tribute to Lord Mountbatten, a respected mentor of Prince Charles.
Naming their son Louis further emphasized the importance of family ties and continuity in the monarchy. Like his older siblings, Louis' name remained a secret for several days after his birth, in keeping with the British royal tradition of delaying announcements. Catherine’s reflections on the pressures of choosing a name highlight how the royal family combines personal choice with tradition, ensuring each name has deep meaning for both the family and the nation. Her visit to the Royal Surrey County Hospital demonstrated her ongoing commitment to improving maternity care in the UK. Catherine interacted with parents and babies, focusing on maternal mental health and the challenges faced by new mothers.
