Prince George

Photo: Michael Middleton

Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge is to be christened this week and his parents, William and Kate, are expected to again break with tradition in the choice of godparents for the royal nestling. While the identities of the godparents is a closely guarded secret, it is believed that instead of choosing older, titled acquaintances to fill these roles William and Kate will ask untitled, close friends to be George's godparents. There is much speculation about who the godparents will be with some expecting that either Pippa Middleton or Prince Harry, or possibly both, will also be named as godparents. Other royals in the running include William's cousins, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie.

The baptism of Prince George, who will be three months and one day old, will be performed by the Archbishop of Canterbury at the Chapel Royal in St James's Palace. This venue was chosen by the young royals over Buckingham Palace, where most senior royal babies have been christened in past decades. The Chapel Royal holds particular sentimental value to Prince William as it is where the coffin of Diana, Princess of Wales was held prior to her funeral.

Prince George will be christened in a replica of the lace and satin christening gown made for Queen Victoria's eldest daughter, Victoria in 1841.  Only close family members and friends will attend the intimate service, with some senior royals such as Princess Anne, Princes Andrew and Edward, and Sophie, Countess of Wessex rumoured to have been left off the guest list.

It is believed that after the christening a photo of the Queen and Princes Charles, William and George (the three future monarchs) will be released. The Royal Mint has also made a range of special coins to mark the christening and this is the first time that commemorative coins have been produced for such an event. One of the new coins is made of one kilogram of solid gold and is worth £50,000! It is one of the largest and most expensive coins the Royal Mint has ever produced.

Whoever is on the guest list and no matter who they choose as godparents, the christening of Prince George is sure to be a day to remember and one which will be well documented. We wish them all the very best for the future.

The team at nestling.