Here's Why Some People Are Upset Archie Harrison's Christening Is Private
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have decided to keep their son, Archie Harrison's, christening private, but some are upset since the royals use taxpayer money.

- Today, the newest addition to the royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's son, Archie Harrison, is scheduled to be christened in a private ceremony in Windsor.
- Harry and Meghan's decision to keep the christening private has been met with some criticism, as have other recent moves by the notoriously private royal couple.
- Critics of Harry and Meghan's decision to keep Archie's christening private point to their use of taxpayer money, particularly for renovations to their home, Frogmore Cottage.
Today, the newest addition to the royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's son, Archie Harrison, is being christened in a very small (it's been reported that fewer than 25 friends and family were invited to the intimate affair), very private ceremony in Windsor.
While royal fans the world over are a little bummed not to be able to watch one of Archie's first milestones in real time, most have taken the, "eh, kind of sucks, but I get it" stance when it comes to the lack of public access to Archie's christening.
Others, however, have been more critical of Harry and Meghan. As CNN notes, the private christening ceremony is just the latest in a string of moves the royal couple have made that critics don't fully support. Especially after the recent revelation that British taxpayers footed a £2.4 million (about $3 million) bill for Harry and Meghan's Frogmore Cottage renovations, many feel the public has a right to be included in these milestones. The argument seems to be that Harry and Meghan are trying to have it both ways—using public funds and not fully embracing their (and, by extension, Archie's) role as public figures.
Of course, to quote the great philosopher Rachel Bloom, the situation is a lot more nuanced than that.
For one thing, there's the obvious counterpoint that, while Harry and Meghan are clearly public figures, the obligations that accompany that position shouldn't extend to their infant child, even if he does eventually grow up to be a working royal like his mom and dad.
And, for what it's worth to any haters out there, Harry and Meghan's personal photographer, Chris Allerton, will be on hand and will release official photos from the christening afterwards, Buckingham Palace has said.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORIES
Kayleigh Roberts is a freelance writer and editor with over 10 years of professional experience covering entertainment of all genres, from new movie and TV releases to nostalgia, and celebrity news. Her byline has appeared in Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, The Atlantic, Allure, Entertainment Weekly, MTV, Bustle, Refinery29, Girls’ Life Magazine, Just Jared, and Tiger Beat, among other publications. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.
-
Is Purple the Shortcut to Looking Like Old Money?
Even if you didn't inherit a fortune, you can dress like you did.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Why One Former Queen Was Held "Prisoner" at Kensington Palace
She was forbidden "from reading popular books" or walking "downstairs without holding someone's hand."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Dua Lipa Pairs Her Snakeskin Trench With a Chanel Bag
The pop star's new rules scream loud luxury.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
7 Times the Royal Family Broke Queen Elizabeth's More Understated "Rule"
These royal women are doing it their way.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Meghan Markle Just Keeps Getting Busier With Major New Business Announcement
April will bring an exciting new venture for the duchess.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Jewelry Expert Reveals Who Owns the Most Expensive Royal Engagement Ring
From pink sapphires to classic diamonds, these regal rings don't disappoint.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince Harry Proves He's a Total Girl Dad in Sweet New Photo of Daughter Princess Lilibet
Lilibet is curled up in her dad's lap in the previously unseen snap.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle and Son Prince Archie Are Basically Twins in Photos Taken Decades Apart
The Duchess of Sussex just shared a throwback photo from her time as a Girl Scout.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle Pairs Cartier With Crocs for the Ultimate High-Low 'With Love, Meghan' Moment
Many of the Duchess of Sussex's looks are under $300 in her new Netflix series.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Meghan Markle's As Ever Lineup Will Include One Fanciful Product Used on Her Netflix Show
You're going to want to use it on everything.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Princess Lilibet Takes Cleaning Very Seriously, According to Mom Meghan Markle
Like mother, like daughter.
By Kristin Contino Published