What Meghan Markle Is Planning For Archie's Birthday While Harry Is at Charles' Coronation

Next month marks two important occasions in the British royal family: King Charles’ Coronation and the birthday of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s son Archie. The couple’s eldest child will be turning four on May 6th, the same day Charles ascends the throne. She will not be attending the ceremonies for her father-in-law in the U.K., but Harry will be there before flying home to be with his family. So, she’s planning the birthday party.

“Meghan is planning something really low-key to celebrate Archie’s birthday,” a source told US Weekly. “Since Harry won’t be able to attend, she just wants to do something intimate with family and a few very close friends.”

The insider added that Meghan’s mom, Doria Ragland, will be at the party and the Duchess of Sussex is very excited for the big day.

“She can’t believe he’s turning 4 already,” the source said, adding that she’s not planning anything “over the top.”

“It feels like the years have flown by,” they said. “She loves being a mom and can’t wait to celebrate her little boy’s special day.”

When Harry’s attendance at the event was announced by Buckingham Palace, Archie’s birthday was the reason given for Meghan’s absence.

“As much as Meghan appreciates the invite to the coronation, she wouldn’t miss her son’s birthday for the world. Despite being the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan is a mom first,” another source explained at the time. “She feels very grateful to be included in such a special occasion by the royal family and is glad that Harry can go and show support on behalf of their family. But being the same day as Archie’s birthday, unfortunately, she’s just going to have to miss out on this one.”

Aimée Lutkin is the weekend editor at ELLE.com. Her writing has appeared in Jezebel, Glamour, Marie Claire and more. Her first book, The Lonely Hunter, will be released by Dial Press in February 2022.