7 times Archie stole our hearts during his first year

Can you believe it was only a year ago that we first laid eyes on newborn Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor? The beautiful 7lb, 3oz baby boy was the first child born to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex—aka Prince Harry and Meghan Markle—on May 6, 2019 and while Archie doesn’t have an official “prince” title like his dad, he’s definitely living a modern fairy tale. (You know, the one where they flee the castle and start a new life in L.A.)Archie’s first year has been a mostly private affair, but his proud parents have shared some super cute moments with the public. Here’s a look back at seven times little Archie stole our hearts.

1. When we got that first glimpse

Just two days after his highly-anticipated arrival, new parents Meghan and Harry introduced their then-unnamed son to the world during a photocall at Windsor Castle. With the sleepy infant wrapped snugly in a blanket, Meghan and Harry seemed more in love than ever—plus, look at that new-mom-glow! Though we only got a peek at his cute face and button nose, it was already clear that Archie was an adorable addition to the royal family.

2. When he met The Queen aka Gan Gan

 

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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen to her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess’ mother were also present for this special occasion. Photo credit: Chris Allerton ©️SussexRoyal

A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on May 8, 2019 at 8:39am PDT

Later that same day, Archie met his great-grandmother, Her Royal Majesty Queen Elizabeth II (who is reportedly called “Granny” by her grandchildren and “Gan Gan” by her great-grandchildren). In an image shared by the Duke and Duchess, Queen Elizabeth is seen beaming at little Archie, who is seventh in line to the throne. Also pictured alongside the new family-of-three are the Duke of Edinburgh and Meghan’s mom, Doria Ragland.

3. His first close-up

 

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Happy Father’s Day! And wishing a very special first Father’s Day to The Duke of Sussex! © SussexRoyal

A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on Jun 16, 2019 at 5:01am PDT

In celebration of Prince Harry’s first Father’s Day, a sweet image of wide-eyed baby Archie was shared on the now-defunct Sussex Royal Instagram page. Looking calm and bright, Archie peered out from behind his father’s hand while gripping a finger tightly. It was our first good look at the royal infant who was already growing up before our eyes. And just look at that wispy baby hair, those big brown eyes and those tiny hands!

4. His picture-perfect christening

 

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This morning, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was christened in the Private Chapel at Windsor Castle at an intimate service officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are so happy to share the joy of this day with members of the public who have been incredibly supportive since the birth of their son. They thank you for your kindness in welcoming their first born and celebrating this special moment. Their Royal Highnesses feel fortunate to have enjoyed this day with family and the godparents of Archie. Their son, Archie, was baptised wearing the handmade replica of the royal christening gown which has been worn by royal infants for the last 11 years. The original Royal Christening Robe, made of fine Honiton lace lined with white satin, was commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1841 and first worn by her eldest daughter. It was subsequently worn for generations of Royal christenings, including The Queen, her children and her grandchildren until 2004, when The Queen commissioned this handmade replica, in order for the fragile historic outfit to be preserved, and for the tradition to continue. Photo credit: Chris Allerton ©️SussexRoyal

A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on Jul 6, 2019 at 8:14am PDT

Archie’s first formal event! The small, intimate christening ceremony was attended by a handful of family members including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (we’re assuming they go by Uncle William and Aunt Kate), grandfather Prince Charles and wife Camilla, grandmother Doria Ragland and two of the late Princess Diana’s sisters. Keeping with tradition, Archie wore a formal christening gown that was actually a replica of the original 1841 garment commissioned by Queen Victoria and worn by dozens of royals, from the queen to Prince Harry himself. The original gown was preserved in 2004, hence the replica. But still, the flowing, beautifully detailed replacement is nothing short of spectacular.

5. When he hung out with his cousins

Name a better cheer squad! Kate, Meghan, and their adorable children rooted for Harry and William in a charity Polo Match today at the Billingbear Polo Club. pic.twitter.com/GLYnhlV4iX

— InStyle (@InStyle) July 10, 2019

Two-month-old Archie made a sleepy-yet-adorable appearance at one of Prince Harry’s charity polo matches. Meghan and baby Archie hung out in the shade with sister-in-law Kate, who was there to cheer on her own royal husband with all three kids in tow. While Archie snoozed through most of the afternoon, it was sweet to see him spending time with cousins Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, who ran around in the grass and ate snacks while sitting in the back of Kate’s car. Mom life!

6.When he spent time with Archbishop Desmond Tutu

 

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Thanks Cape Town for another impactful and memorable day! A few more highlights of this very special visit with Archbishop Desmond Tutu #RoyalVisitSouthAfrica Video ©️SussexRoyal

A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on Sep 25, 2019 at 12:06pm PDT

When the Duke and Duchess embarked on a 10-day royal tour of several African countries in October 2019, they brought Archie along for the ride. While in Cape Town, South Africa the couple met with renowned human rights activist Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who instantly bonded with little Archie. The royal baby’s sunny personality was on full display as he cooed, giggled and smiled his way through the visit. He even got a kiss on the forehead from Tutu as a delighted Meghan looked on.

7. When he enjoyed the scenery in Canada

 

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“Wishing you all a very Happy New Year and thanking you for your continued support! We’ve loved meeting so many of you from around the world and can’t wait to meet many more of you next year. We hope 2020 brings each of you health and continued happiness.” - The Duke and Duchess of Sussex Special thanks to Chris Martin and @Coldplay for allowing us to use one of their songs Photo and video © SussexRoyal Thanks to PA for additional images and footage

A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (@sussexroyal) on Dec 31, 2019 at 12:15pm PST

Near the end of last year, Meghan, Harry and Archie arrived in Canada for what was thought to be a holiday trip (as it turns out, there was a lot more change on the horizon). It was soon revealed that the family was staying on Vancouver Island, where this beautiful father-son shot was likely taken. Look at those smiles and that little pom-pom hat! If we weren’t smitten before, we're swooning now. The image was shared as part of a year-end video that featured many sweet family moments.Happy first birthday, Archie, and all the best for more happy days to come![video_embed id='1858924']BEFORE YOU GO: Baby Archie was the biggest story of 2019[/video_embed]