An insider noted that Eugenie was unsure about which family members she would spend the holiday with, putting her in a rather difficult position. She has also received an invitation to Sandringham. There are rumours that Eugenie's absence from the Christmas service is related to tensions with Catherine. One account shows Eugenie pushing Catherine away as they leave the Christmas service at St. Mary Magdalene Church.

Catherine turned back briefly to see who had touched her, and as she passed Eugenie, she gave her a stern look before moving to greet others. While there is no clear reason for Eugenie's absence, it is likely due to her time in both the UK and Portugal with her husband and two sons. This year, she received invitations to both Montecito, where Meghan and Harry are staying, and Sandringham to attend the royal family's holiday celebrations.

At the recent concert, 26 members of the royal family attended, but a photo of the Welsh family drew attention because there was a man sitting behind them. The man was identified as George Gilman, Lady Rose's husband. Lady Rose is known to attend important royal events such as King Charles' coronation. Lady Gabriella Kingston, daughter of Prince Michael of Kent, was seen arriving at Westminster Abbey with Pippa Middleton shortly after the inquest into her husband's death.

King Charles and Queen Camilla were absent from the concert without any official explanation given. Camilla has been keeping a low profile as she recovers from pneumonia. Last year, the couple missed the concert as the king was on official duties more than 100 miles away. Princess Anne was also absent from the festival concert due to other engagements in South Wales.

The absence follows a pattern, as she was also unable to attend last year's ceremony. Former rugby player Mike Tindall and his children were also absent. Zara Tindall entered the church with her cousin Princess Beatrice, who is expecting a child in early 2025. Beatrice looked stylish in a burgundy suit and affectionately referred to Zara's son Wolfie as her bonus son. Zara paid a subtle tribute to Catherine by wearing deep purple Christian Louboutin heels.