Prince Reflects on Ensuring a ‘Lasting Marriage’ Before Engagement Announcement
Prince William has revealed the heartfelt reason behind his decision to wait nearly a decade before proposing to Catherine, explaining his desire to ensure their marriage would stand the test of time.
The couple, who announced their engagement in November 2010, had been dating for several years with a brief separation in between. Speaking to royal photographer Arthur Edwards, William shared that he wanted Catherine to have a clear understanding of royal life before committing fully.
“I wanted to make sure our marriage would last forever,” he told The Sun. This sentiment was echoed during their official engagement interview with Tom Bradby, where William expressed his concern for Catherine and her family’s well-being. “I wanted to give her a chance to see what life was like in the family and to back out if she needed to,” he explained. “I’m trying to learn from lessons of the past and wanted to give her the best chance to settle in.”
Reflecting on their early days, William shared that he knew there was “something very special” about Catherine when they first met, and their friendship laid a strong foundation for their relationship. “I believe being friends first is a massive advantage,” he noted. “We went through a few stumbling blocks, but we picked ourselves up and carried on.”
Catherine also addressed their brief breakup, admitting she was unhappy at the time but felt it ultimately made her a “stronger person.” She emphasised the importance of working through challenges together, saying, “If you come out stronger, it shows you’ve learned things about yourself and your relationship.”
William’s thoughtful approach to their engagement highlights his commitment to building a strong and enduring partnership, ensuring that both he and Catherine were fully prepared for life in the royal spotlight.
