The Royals
Kate Turns 30: A Look Back at Her First Royal Year
As the Duchess celebrates the big 3-0, see her fairy-tale transformation from princess bride to full-fledged royal
Credit: Paul Burns/Clarence House/Getty
Updated: Tuesday Jan 03, 2012 | 06:00 AM EST By: Eloise Parker
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SOLO ENGAGEMENT
Demonstrating her growing confidence as a public figure, Kate got glowing reviews when she stepped in for Prince Charles with just 24 hours' notice for her first official solo engagement on Oct. 26. At the dinner at Clarence House in London to benefit In Kind Direct, the Duchess "spoke to every single guest," the charity's chief executive Robin Boles told PEOPLE. "She was completely natural, professional and charmed everyone."
