How Meghan and Harry broke tradition with royal baby announcement

They were known for moving to the beat of their own drum when they were senior members of the royal family, so it’s really no surprise that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle broke with tradition when they announced the arrival of their baby daughter into the world.

The Sussexes took to their Archewell website to reveal the exciting news that Lilibet “Lili” Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, who was born on Friday, 4 June at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara, was "more than we could have ever imagined" and is now "settling in at home".

Lilibet’s arrival was kept secret for two days, quite like when her brother Archie was born and the public weren’t informed until three days later.

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In 2019, Buckingham Palace released a statement saying Meghan Markle had gone into labour when in fact, she had already given birth to Archie at that stage.

This time, the couple ensured there were no royal bungles by making the announcement themselves, breaking with royal tradition.

In a message of thanks from Meghan and Harry on the Archewell website, they said: "On June 4, we were blessed with the arrival of our daughter, Lili.

"She is more than we could have ever imagined, and we remain grateful for the love and prayers we’ve felt from across the globe.

"Thank you for your continued kindness and support during this very special time for our family.”

The couple asked anyone wishing to send a present to support organisations working for women and girls.

A message on the Archewell website reads: "For those inquiring on sending gifts, we would ask that you support or learn more about these organisations working for women and girls: Girls Inc., Harvest Home, CAMFED or Myna Mahila Foundation."

Usually, royal protocol dictates that the Queen will be first to know when a new member of the family is born.

Then, an official statement by the palace is usually placed on their website and a press release is sent out to the media.

A confirmation of the baby's birth is commonly placed on an easel in front of Buckingham Palace and the name isn't announced for a few days later.

Lilibeth is eighth in line to the throne, and the highest in line to be born in the US.

The royal family have congratulated the couple, with an official statement reading: “The Queen, The Prince of Wales & The Duchess of Cornwall, and The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge have been informed & are delighted with the news of the birth of a daughter for The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.”

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