December 2025 — Princess Beatrice and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, celebrated the christening of their daughter, Athena Elizabeth Rose, at the historic Chapel Royal in St. James’s Palace, London — a deeply personal milestone that drew attention not just for the ceremony itself but for the absence of several senior members of the British royal family.
The intimate event took place on December 12, 2025, with only close family members and friends in attendance. Athena, now nearly 11 months old, was reportedly christened in a private service attended by Beatrice’s parents — Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, who made a rare public appearance together at a royal venue. Also present were Beatrice’s sister Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank, alongside close friends including Princess Nina of Greece and Denmark and singer James Blunt — both reported to be godparents. People.com+1
The ceremony underscored Beatrice’s effort to focus the day on her daughter, honoring tradition while keeping the gathering small and personal. Athena, born prematurely in January 2025, has already captured public affection for her resilience as the youngest member of the extended royal family. Wikipedia
A striking aspect of the day was the absence of senior working royals. Despite being invited, King Charles and Queen Camilla did not attend, even though they reportedly had no public engagements scheduled that day. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales were also not present, and Princess Anne was said to have prior commitments. Geo News+1
Observers noted that these high‑profile absences highlighted the distinctly private nature of Beatrice’s celebration and may reflect broader tensions or scheduling pressures within the monarchy. While no official reasons were detailed beyond routine commitments, the optics have stirred commentary among royal watchers about family dynamics and shifting roles. Geo News
Following the ceremony, Beatrice and Edoardo were photographed heading for a relaxed pub lunch with friends in London — a contrast to more formal royal receptions. The atmosphere was described as convivial and discreet, with guests enjoying a low‑key celebration after the official service. People.com
For Beatrice, the day was centered on celebrating her daughter and honoring personal connections, even as broader royal relationships and controversies — including recent actions involving her father’s royal status — continue to shape public perceptions of the family’s private lives. People.com
Sources
News Reports
Princess Beatrice Hits the Pub to Celebrate Baby Athena’s Christening as Andrew and Sarah Skip After‑Party amid Royal Fallout — People / Yahoo Entertainment (December 12, 2025) People.com
Ex‑Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson Attended Athena’s Christening; No Senior Royals Present — Marie Claire (Dec 13, 2025) Marie Claire
Senior Royals Absent as Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor and Sarah Ferguson Break Cover at Princess Beatrice’s Christening — GB News (Dec 13, 2025) GB News
Princess Beatrice’s Daughter Christened at St James’s Palace with Close Family and Friends — Royal News Organisation (Dec 13, 2025) The Royal News Organisation
King Charles and Other Senior Royals Skip Athena’s Christening Despite Invitations — Geo News (Dec 13, 2025) Geo News
Diana’s Godson Attends Baptism as Prince William and Kate Skip — The News.com.pk (Dec 13, 2025)
