Most people can’t expect to marry a prince or live in a castle but former commoner Kate Middleton is living a real life fairy tale. From humble beginnings working at her parents party planning business ‘Party Pieces’ to preparing to be Queen of England — the Princess of Wales has led a charmed life. Possessing a slew of talents beyond her tiara wearing skills, this mom of three has a knack for the arts, sports and recreation. And while Kate might be lucky in love and spouse scoring — the talented and tenacious royal leading lady was always gifted in her own right.
Here are 12 of Kate Middleton’s Secret Talents:
- She Plays Piano
Playing on King Charles’ Steinway piano in an ethereal blue Jenny Packham dress for a Eurovision contest — Kate proved she’s more than a one note wonder.
2. She Designs Jewelry
This iconic fashionista and royal all-star once worked as a Junior Accessories Buyer at brand Jigsaw. In the role, Kate collaborated with Claudia Bradby to design necklaces for girls ages 6-18 — the twosome created notable pieces like this pretty bead and pearl design.
3. She Knows How to Sail
Far from being just a pretty face, the Princess of Wales often shows off her sporty side on royal duty — the mom of three is considered a competent sailor.
4. She Speaks Sign Language
At the National Maritime Museum in Cornwall the princess once again impressed with her portfolio of hidden talents and communicated with a young boy using sign language.
5. She Plays Tennis
The princess reportedly has a mean forehand and has rallied with tennis ace Emma Raducanu and legend Roger Federer.
6. She Loves Baking
The princess frequently stays up late to decorate her children’s homemade birthday cakes and is mastering the art of making smooth buttercream.
7. She’s a Professional Photographer
Dedicated to snapping pictures of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis for their birthday portraits — this shutterbug enjoyed studying Art History at St. Andrews University where she perfected her snap happy hobby. (She’s also photographed Queen Camilla for a magazine cover.)
8. She Enjoys Diving
During a trip to Belize, Princess Kate and Prince William displayed their scuba diving skills with a video on Instagram promoting environmental conservation. The pair were captured under the sea enjoying South Water Caye just under the Belize Barrier Reef.
9. She’s a Fierce Athlete
Known to play rugby and volleyball as well as competing in rowing, swimming and tennis in school — the princess is practically an Olympian.
10. She’s a Beekeeper
Queen Bee! The Princess of Wales specializes in beekeeping and even makes her own honey from hives at her Anmer Hall home. (Kate’s brother James Middleton is also passionate about the pollination-y pastime.)
11. She Can Draw and Paint
The princess drew the church sketch on her sister Pippa Middleton’s wedding Order of Service booklet and reportedly even spent one summer painting portraits of her children. (The late Prince Phillip was also a gifted oil painter and was known for his landscapes and personal portraits like his famous watercolor work ‘The Queen at Breakfast.’)
12. She Can Play Sports in Heels
The princess has played volleyball in chunky wedges, kicked soccer balls in towering espadrilles and has played hockey in heeled boots.
