Meghan Markle is set to break royal tradition as she plans Christmas with the Queen
FUTURE royal Meghan Markle plans to celebrate Christmas with the Queen this year, breaking tradition that blocked Kate Middleton from enjoying royal family festivities in 2010.
Experts say the actress, 36, will join the Windsors for their annual, three-day celebrations at Sandringham - a privilege usually reserved for members of the royal family.
Richard Fitzwilliams, an expert in royal affairs, explained Meghan's family still reside in the US, meaning she will likely get cosy with the Queen this year instead.
Although it breaks traditional protocol, PR advisers claim the gesture is needed to avoid ill feeling with Meghan, who is due to marry Prince Harry in 2018.
But the move could spark tension with Meghan's soon-to-be sister-in-law Kate Middleton who was snubbed from the celebrations seven years ago.
The Duchess of Cambridge was forced to wait until she was married before being allowed to sit at the royal dining table.
Mike Tindall was also prevented from joining until he wed Princess Anne's daughter, Zara.
Mr Fitzwilliams told the : “It is expected Meghan will join Harry and the rest of the Royal Family for Christmas on the Queen 's estate in Norfolk this year.
“In 2010 Kate was not invited to do so after her engagement to William nor was Mike Tindall after his to the Princess Royal's daughter Zara Phillips and only spouses and close family are usually invited.
“However Harry and Meghan will be living together at Nottingham Cottage at Kensington Palace and her family are in the United States. The monarchy relies heavily on precedent and tradition but it also makes its own.”
The Suits star has torn up tradition in the past when she broke the royal dressing rule previously upheld by Kate and the Queen.
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She appeared bare-legged during a photoshoot for the official engagement announcement in Kensington palace, but Her Majesty requires tights be worn on such occasions.
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