How Kate Middleton turned Prince William into pure romantic

Prince William and Kate Middleton may be known as the picture of royal romance now, but it turns out that wasn’t always the case. According to reports, William wasn’t exactly a natural in the love department, at least not until Kate came into his life. 

From cooking experiments to sporting stunts, here are five ways the Princess of Wales brought out William’s romantic side.

1. Prince Harry’s Cheeky Wedding Speech

At William and Kate’s wedding reception in April 2011, Prince Harry playfully teased his big brother’s transformation.

"William didn't have a romantic bone in his body before he met Kate," Harry reportedly said, according to royal expert Katie Nicholl.

2. Cooking Up Love in the Kitchen

When asked by Mary Berry during BBC’s A Berry Royal Christmas (2019), Kate recalled William’s early cooking efforts.

"He used to cook all sorts of meals. I think that's when he was trying to impress me, Mary!" she shared. From bolognese sauce to hearty breakfasts, William found romance in the kitchen—even if it didn’t last every day after marriage.

3. Sporting His Way Into Her Heart

William tried to win Kate over through athletics as well. Per the Daily Mail, "William also attempted to turn Kate's head with his sporting prowess.”

“As well as joining the rugby, water polo, and surfing teams at St. Andrews, William would swim with Kate most mornings at the Old Course Hotel."

4. A Harry Potter-Themed Date Bid

In one of the more whimsical displays of affection, William shelled out £200 to win a date with Kate during a Harry Potter-themed charity auction.

Their former roommate, Laura Warshauer, recalled, "We went to a party at a castle… Will bid £200 to win a date with Kate."

5. Kate’s Cool Confidence Around Royal Status

Perhaps the real secret to their connection was Kate’s effortless charm. Warshauer explained that Kate never seemed fazed by William’s royal status.

"Kate's reaction was effortlessly cool—showing she was unfazed by titles and comfortable around him," she said.

That attitude may have been what encouraged William to pursue her with such dedication.