Duchess of Edinburgh’s journey from PR professional to royal icon celebrated on milestone day
Duchess Sophie of Edinburgh, who celebrates her 60th birthday today (January 20, 2025), is being honoured for her steadfast dedication and the sacrifices she has made to become an integral part of the royal family over the past 25 years.
A royal expert shed light on Sophie’s struggles as she transitioned from a thriving career in public relations to the demands of royal life.
“She’s very unfussy. She drives herself to engagements and does her own hair and makeup—things that some of the others don’t do,” Jennie Bond told GB News. “It wasn’t seamless or effortless for her to become part of this rather exclusive and extraordinary family.”
Reflecting on Sophie’s early romance with Prince Edward, Bond shared, “I met her back when she was a successful PR professional with her own firm. She was thriving in her career and then fell in love with Edward.”
The couple’s long courtship gave Sophie valuable time to prepare for the challenges of royal life. “She was actually the first royal girlfriend to be allowed to stay at Buckingham Palace,” Bond revealed, a testament to the unique bond Sophie forged with the family early on.
Sophie’s unwavering support for Edward, the late Queen, and King Charles has cemented her status as a vital member of the monarchy. “She was really close to the late Queen, who saw Sophie as a second daughter,” Bond added.
Adjusting to the royal lifestyle was no small feat. “Becoming part of this strange and restrictive way of life for a modern young woman was very hard,” Bond explained. Despite these difficulties, Sophie’s dedication and humility have earned her widespread admiration.
To mark her milestone birthday, the royal family shared a heartfelt tribute on their official Instagram page, featuring a touching video with photos celebrating Sophie’s life and contributions as the Duchess of Edinburgh.
As Sophie reflects on her journey, her story serves as an inspiration, showcasing resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to the royal family.
