“London bridge is down”, this was announced yesterday, disclosing the passing on of Queen Elizabeth II of England. Yes, Queen Elizabeth II has been the ruler of the United Kingdom since Winston Churchill was the Prime Minister in 1952, which makes her UK’s longest-serving monarch, after reigning for 70 years.
She died peacefully on Thursday afternoon at her Scottish estate, where she had spent much of the summer. Hence, since the announcement of her death, the world has been in a mourning state for one of the most influential thrones in the world.
In lieu of this, leading a country for seven tireless decades is obviously impressive enough, but Her Majesty’s extensive tenure becomes even more remarkable once you start digging into the traditions associated with being a British royal. And by traditions, we really mean rules lots and lots of rules.
Turns out, being any member of the royal family (queen or otherwise) is not as easy and carefree as it looks in the movies. Hence, this article shall take a look at 13 of the most weirdest rules the royals follow, your non-royal life might start to look pretty good by comparison.
1. Approvals Before Proposals
According to the Royal Marriages Act of 1772, royal descendants must seek the monarch’s approval before proposing.
2. Traveling In All Black Ensemble
The royal family is nothing if not prepared. A respectable all-black outfit is packed with them on their travels in case of a sudden death where they must attend a funeral.
3. Two Heirs Cannot Fly Together
That’s in case something tragic were to happen. Once Prince George (who is third in line to the throne after Prince Charles and Prince William) turns 12, he will have to fly separately from his dad.
4. The Royals Cannot Vote
Members of the royal family are not allowed to vote or even publicly express their opinion on political matters
5. The Queen Or King Is Not Allowed To Sit On A Foreign Throne
6. Tiaras Are Only Worn By Married Women
7. There Are No Autographs Or Selfies Allowed
8. The King or Queen Signals When A Conversation Is Over
If you see Her Majesty move her purse from her left arm to her right, then it’s time to stop talking. That apparently signals to her staff that she’s ready to move on.
9. Never Touch Her Majesty’s Purse
According to Capricia Penavic Marshall (former U.S. chief of protocol and author of Protocol), the queen’s handbag isn’t only for looks. In fact, the 94-year-old monarch uses it to send non-verbal signals to her staff. And under no circumstances should anyone else touch it.
10. Wedding Dresses Must Be Approved By The Queen
Not only does the queen need to approve the wedding in general, but she also has to say yes to the dress. Kate Middleton showed her grandmother-in-law her custom gown by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen in the design process, as did Meghan Markle.
11. Marriage Comes With A New Name.
Members of the royal family take a new name when they’re married.
12. A Royal Wedding Bouquet Must Contain Myrtle.
A royal wedding bouquet must contain myrtle. Every royal bride carries myrtle in her wedding bouquet
13. Monopoly Is A Forbidden Board Game
Monopoly is a forbidden board game amongst the family.
