From romantic getaways with Prince Harry to intimate family celebrations in California, here’s how Meghan has marked her birthdays over the years
PICS: Getty Images Words: Suzanne Baum
As Meghan Markle celebrates her 45th birthday today, the Duchess of Sussex is likely to mark the occasion far from the public spotlight at her home in Montecito, California. While the exact plans remain private, previous birthdays offer a fascinating insight into how Meghan has chosen to celebrate life’s milestones over the years.
From romantic trips with Prince Harry to family dinners, charitable initiatives and quieter celebrations at home, her birthdays have often reflected the different chapters of her life. As she reaches another milestone, here’s a look back at some of the moments that have defined her celebrations.
From Botswana to royal life
One of Meghan’s most memorable birthdays came in 2017, when she reportedly celebrated with Prince Harry in Botswana. The African nation has long held special significance for the couple, who have frequently spoken about the role it played in the early days of their relationship.
A year later, everything had changed. Having married into the Royal Family just months earlier, Meghan spent her 37th birthday attending the wedding of Prince Harry’s close friend Charlie van Straubenzee and Daisy Jenks in Surrey – one of her first birthdays as the Duchess of Sussex.
Marking milestones with purpose
For her 40th birthday, Meghan chose to celebrate by launching her 40×40 initiative, encouraging people to donate 40 minutes of their time to mentor women returning to work after the Covid pandemic. Alongside the campaign, she reportedly enjoyed a private celebration with family and close friends.
More recently, her 44th birthday was marked with a dinner at the Los Angeles restaurant Funke, followed by an Instagram post showing her blowing out candles on a flower-topped birthday cake—a rare glimpse into a personal family celebration.
A quieter life in California
Today, Meghan and Prince Harry live with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet at their Montecito home near Santa Barbara. The private estate offers plenty of space for family celebrations, with extensive gardens, outdoor entertaining areas and facilities designed for a quieter lifestyle away from royal duties.
Unlike in previous years, there have been no public birthday messages from the Royal Family’s official social media accounts. That follows the now-established practice of only publicly celebrating the birthdays of working members of the Royal Family. Similarly, Prince Harry is not expected to post a public tribute, with the couple preferring to keep family occasions private.
How might Meghan celebrate this year?
While Meghan’s plans have not been announced, her previous birthdays suggest a preference for intimate celebrations rather than lavish public events. A relaxed day with Prince Harry and their children, a special meal, time spent outdoors or a gathering with close friends would all be consistent with how she has marked recent birthdays.
Meghan has also previously spoken about birthdays as an opportunity to reflect and look ahead, describing them as something of a personal “new year”. Whether that means spending time with family, focusing on her lifestyle brand As Ever, or simply enjoying a quieter day at home, the Duchess’s 45th birthday is likely to continue the more private traditions she has embraced since settling in California.
