It’s officially happening folks!
Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan have begun their final chapter as senior royal family members together by stepping out for the first time as a joint unit – the first time since they sensationally announced they would be stepping back from the British institution.
Attending the annual Endeavour Fund Awards on Thursday, March 5, the pair were absolutely glowing as they entered the evening event.
It looks like Canada has been very good to them.
Wearing a stunning turquoise midi dress, all eyes were on the Duchess, who hasn’t made a public appearance since the couple’s shock announcement on January 8.
The beautiful fitted dress featured short sleeves, and was paired with black pumps.
Wearing her hair in a chic slicked back pony tail, the mum-of-one proved once again why she’s such a big player in the fashion world.
It’s good to see her back in action!
Harry meanwhile looked dapper in a suit for the awards night, which recognise the achievements of wounded, injured or sick servicemen and women who have been part of remarkable sporting achievements in the past year.
The Prince has been out and about already after returning to the UK last week, attending several formal events in his royal role.
Of course, the Duke and Duchess’ dazzling appearance tonight is glorious in its own right, but there is a little sense of sadness that we just can’t shake.
Indeed this event simply marks the first of three upcoming occassions that we will see Harry and Meghan formally step out as senior members of the royal family.
Come March 31, their transition away from the royal family into a financially independent life will formally come into play.
That means we’ll likely see less of the royals step out in this kind of capacity.
As per the Palace’s official statement, the pair will also split their time between the UK and a new home in North America, although many believe the Duke and Duchess are likely to set up shop in Canada for the most part, with only fleeting trips home to the UK.
Baby Archie is reportedly not with his regal parents this time around.
Last week, The Times reported the pair had chosen to leave their 10-month-old son back in Canada with his Nanny.
It is also believed Meghan’s best friend Jessica Mulroney, who is based in Canada, is helping with babysitting duties.
This event marks the first of three that we’ll see Harry and Meghan step out as senior royals in the coming days.
On Saturday evening, the pair will again make a public appearance at the Royal Albert Hall to watch the Mountbatten Music Festival.
On Monday, the couple will then attend the annual Commonwealth Day service alongside the Queen, Duchess Catherine and Prince William.
They do say all good things come to an end, but at least we have a couple of exciting events to look forward to before they step back for good.
And who knows, maybe that 12 month trial period will prove what we kind of hope – the royals just aren’t the same without Harry and Meghan!
WATCH: Prince Harry talks about his and Meghan’s decision to step back from royal life: