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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are making the event a small and intimate affair, having previously invited only 22 people to Prince George’s christening and 30 guests attended Princess Charlotte’s.
A select number of royals are expected to attend the ceremony, held at the 16th century sanctuary, including Prince Philip and Prince Charles.
Kate’s parents, Carole and Michael Middleton will also be attending, as well as Prince Louis’ godparents, who have yet to be officially announced.
As uncle Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are present in London on Monday, they are both expected to attend.
Built in 1536, St James Palace has a vast amount of history, having housed several royals throughout centuries since the reign of King Henry VIII.
Queen Victoria married Prince Albert on the very steps of the palace in 1840, while Queen Elizabeth I is also known to have resided at the palace on several occasions.
The palace also bears a profound significance to Prince William, as his late mother, Princess Diana’s coffin was placed at the palace’s altar before her funeral at Westminster Abbey in 1997.
Speculations are rising as to whether Kate and Will will choose someone close to Diana as Prince Louis’ godparent, having appointed his mother’s friend, Julia Samuel as Prince George’s godmother.
Meanwhile Diana’s niece, Laura Fellowes, is one of Princess Charlotte’s godparents, raising expectations that William might follow the same proceedings with a nod to his mother.
Meghan and Pippa Middleton also stand good chances as Louis’ godparents, after bookies released odds in their favour.
The Archbishop of Canterbury will be presiding over the 45-minute church service, and he has also previously christened three-year-old Princess Charlotte.
The bishop, also known as Most Reverend Justin Welby, even joked about being cautious not to “drop” Prince Louis while conducting the baptism.
He previously told the BBC: “You know, if you’re at the wedding don’t drop the rings and if you’re at the baptism don’t drop the baby.”
Unlike royal weddings, royal christenings are small scale events and only immediate family and godparents are invited to attend.
Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice and William’s uncles and aunts were all reportedly not invited to either of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s children’s christenings.
Therefore, it is likely that extended royal relatives will not be invited to Prince Louis’ christening.
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