How Meghan Markle’s baby shower has deep British royal links - REVEALED
MEGHAN Markle returned to America for the first time since her royal wedding for a baby shower.
Meghan Markle: Duchess steps out to attend baby shower
The Duchess of Sussex’s closest friends organised a baby shower ahead of the birth of her and Prince Harry’s first child in April or May. But the celebration, which many believe is an American tradition, has a number of historic links with royals. Baby showers date back to the reign of Queen Victoria, when women would hold parties with gifts for new mothers.
And Meghan is following in Kate’s footsteps, whose sister Pippa planned a baby shower for her before she gave birth to Prince George in 2013.
Speaking at the time, an insider said: "A baby shower wouldn't normally happen if you're in the royal family, but there is now a modern way of thinking.”
During her secret trip to the US, pregnant Meghan has been spotted out and about in the Big Apple.
On Saturday, she enjoyed macarons at Ladurée in SoHo with close pal Jessica Mulroney.
The pair struck up a friendship when Meghan was based in Toronto, Canada, to film US legal drama Suits.
And yesterday, the 37-year-old’s baby shower was held at exclusive hotel The Mark.
Ms Mulroney, tennis player Serena Williams and former Suits co-star Abigail Spencer were among the duchess’s friends who attended.
A source told US magazine Harper’s Bazaar: “The trip is a lovely chance to catch up with friends and spend time in a city she loves.
“This will be the last time a lot of them will see Meg until after the baby is born so it’s nice to share precious moments.
“It's been a relaxing visit. Nothing beats face time with your friends. Meg will be flying home refreshed and relaxed - and with a lot of new baby clothes.”
And seven-months-pregnant Meghan is showing no signs of slowing down as her due date draws nearer.
She will join Harry for a three-day trip to Morocco on Saturday, where they will complete a number of royal engagements.
It is the third continent Meghan has visited in just 11 days.