Sophie was labelled a ‘PR girl’ by the media but the reality was she was accomplished in her field. After working internationally, Sophie set up her own firm and continued to work until 2002. It was at that point she closed her business interests in order to become a full-time working royal.
Sophie, who was made the Countess of Wessex following her wedding, became a highly regarded. member of The Firm who found herself at the very heart of Queen Elizabeth II’s inner circle. The closeness of their bond was made plain to the world when she affectionately referred to Her Majesty as ‘mama’ in a speech.
The royal is also often spotted sharing light-hearted moments with the Princess of Wales
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Mother to Lady Louise Windsor, 22, and James, Earl of Wessex, 18, Sophie balances parenting responsibilities with official duties and charity work – a load which has only increased in the years since Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have stepped back from royal life.
Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh continues to prove herself an invaluable member of the royal family. Here, Tatler toasts to her 61st birthday with 61 glorious photos from her royal life…