Princess Margaret's Lady in Waiting: A Royal Bond

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a royal confidante? What does it take to serve as a lady in waiting to a princess?

In her memoir Lady in Waiting, Anne Glenconner provides a fascinating glimpse into her role as Princess Margaret's lady in waiting. You'll discover the challenges, joys, and intimate moments of serving one of the most prominent members of the British Royal Family.

Keep reading to learn about the lifelong friendship between Anne Glenconner and Princess Margaret, and the unique experiences that came with being a royal companion.

A Lifelong Bond With Princess Margaret

Anne Glenconner's role as Princess Margaret's lady in waiting was far more than just a job – it was a lifelong friendship that began in childhood and lasted until the Princess's passing. As the daughter of an earl, Anne grew up in close proximity to the Royal Family, often participating in activities with Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. This unique position would eventually lead to her becoming one of Princess Margaret's most trusted confidantes and companions.

This early connection laid the foundation for a deep and enduring relationship that would shape Anne's life for decades to come. When Anne was reintroduced to Princess Margaret as an adult, their friendship was quickly rekindled, leading to Anne's appointment as Lady in Waiting.

Duties of a Lady in Waiting

As Princess Margaret's Lady in Waiting, Anne's responsibilities were diverse and often demanding. You might think the role was all glamour and royal events, but it involved much more:

• Accompanying the Princess on official duties and travels
• Organizing public appearances and complex social gatherings
• Ensuring the Princess had appropriate attire for various occasions
• Safeguarding the Princess's well-being during trips to far-flung Commonwealth locations

Anne's role wasn't limited to official duties. She also provided crucial emotional support to Princess Margaret, standing by her side through personal trials and public scrutiny.

Supporting Princess Margaret Through Thick and Thin

One of the most challenging aspects of Anne's role was witnessing and supporting Princess Margaret through her personal struggles. The Princess faced numerous difficulties, including:

• A challenging marriage
• Relentless media attention
• Declining health in her later years

Anne's memoirs reveal her deep understanding and empathy for the Princess during these trying times. She stood by Margaret during her most vulnerable moments, allowing her to face her difficulties without having to maintain a façade of royal aloofness.

Shared Adventures and Memorable Moments

It wasn't all duty and difficulty, though. Anne and Princess Margaret shared many lighthearted moments and adventures together. Some of their most memorable experiences included:

• Building elaborate sand castles and playfully surprising nursery staff at the beach
• Enjoying the changing colors of the night sky at Basil's Bar in Mustique
• Attending lavish parties and social events

These shared experiences deepened their bond and provided moments of joy amidst their official responsibilities.

The Challenges of Royal Service

While serving as Lady in Waiting was an honor, it also came with its share of challenges. Anne had to balance her duties to the Princess with her own family life and personal struggles.

Balancing Royal Duties and Personal Life

Anne's life was a whirlwind of royal engagements, travel, and social events. At the same time, she was raising her own family and dealing with the eccentricities of her husband, Colin Tennant. This balancing act required tremendous energy and dedication.

Witnessing the Princess's Decline

Perhaps one of the most emotionally taxing aspects of Anne's role was witnessing Princess Margaret's health decline in her later years. Anne provided unwavering support during this difficult time, accompanying the Princess through her illnesses and ultimately, her passing.

A Friendship Beyond Duty

What set Anne's relationship with Princess Margaret apart was that it transcended the boundaries of duty. Their bond was one of genuine friendship and mutual affection.

Shared Interests and Experiences

Anne and Princess Margaret shared many common interests, from their love of social events to their appreciation for the beauty of Mustique. These shared passions helped to strengthen their connection beyond their official roles.

A Trusted Confidante

As Lady in Waiting, Anne became one of Princess Margaret's most trusted confidantes. She was privy to the Princess's private thoughts and feelings, providing a sympathetic ear and steadfast support through both good times and bad.

The Legacy of Service

Anne Glenconner's tenure as Lady in Waiting to Princess Margaret spanned three decades, leaving an indelible mark on both women's lives. Through her service, Anne gained unique insights into the inner workings of the Royal Family and forged a friendship that would last a lifetime.

Her role as Lady in Waiting wasn't just about fulfilling royal duties – it was about being a friend, confidante, and support system for one of the most prominent members of the British Royal Family. Anne's dedication and loyalty to Princess Margaret exemplify the deep personal connections that can form within the formal structures of royal service.

In the end, Anne's story is not just about her service to a princess, but about the enduring power of friendship, loyalty, and mutual support in the face of life's challenges, both public and private.