During the evening of Kate Middleton’s 37th birthday on Wednesday, Jan. 9, Prince William organized a small dinner for his wife at their Kensington Palace home with a few close friends. Guests toasted Kate with champagne and dug into the feast that William had thoughtfully organized. “He brought in a top chef to cook a lavish five-course dinner,” a royal insider revealed in Closer Weekly‘s latest issue, on newsstands now. The birthday bash’s menu included shrimp risotto and perfectly grilled steak, followed by Kate’s favorite sticky toffee pudding.

The intimate supper capped a 37th birthday celebration filled with surprises for the Duchess of Cambridge, including a sweet token of friendship from her sister-in-law, Meghan Markle, also 37. “She sent over a little gift and wrote Kate a heartwarming birthday card,” the source said, adding that both women are eager to end the rumors of a rift between them. “Meghan’s at her wit’s end over all the negative press, and she hopes her gesture toward Kate will help.”

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Kate appreciated Meghan’s act of goodwill. “Their relationship is still developing,” the insider said, adding that the Duchesses are very different people. Meghan and Prince Harry’s first royal baby, who is due in the spring, will hopefully soon provide the women with more common ground.

Kate spent much of her day with her kids, Prince George, 5, Princess Charlotte, 3, and Prince Louis, 8 months. The older children love birthday cake and were eager to help their mother blow out her candles during an after-school tea party. “George and Charlotte also made their mom birthday cards in their arts and craft class,” confided the source.

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Unfortunately, William couldn’t be at that celebration. His royal duties sent him to London Royal Hospital, where he jovially accepted birthday cards for his wife. “Well done for remembering,” he told two children who handed him handmade greetings. “I did remember this morning, so that was OK!”

William did better than OK. In addition to planning Kate’s dinner, the Prince surprised her with a pair of custom diamond earrings. “He always puts a lot of thought into Kate’s presents,” admitted the source. The beautiful gift was the icing on Kate’s perfect birthday.

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