Co Tyrone model Kate Grant has spoken of her delight at meeting members of the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace, and even grabbing a photo with the Duchess of Cambridge.
The 23-year-old was invited to the lavish affair earlier this week to celebrate her BEM, which she received for 'services to the community in Cookstown'.
Kate made headlines across the country as a teenager when she became the first model with Downs Syndrome to model at Belfast Fashion Week and since then she has gone on to appear in numerous shoots and is currently signed to ACA models.
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Speaking to MyTyrone about her experiences at the event in London, Kate said: "I’ve waited two years for this day because of the pandemic. It was a chance of a lifetime. It was amazing to be there, behind the gates and get to see members of the Royal family up close."
The highlight of Kate's day came when she met the Duchess of Cambridge who paid her some lovely compliments during their conversation.
"I was so excited and I couldn’t believe it, that they were there in front of me. Kate was so lovely to me. I curtsied and she shook my hand. She’s so so friendly, lovely and has a beautiful smile," said Kate.
"She told me I was very pretty, and asked where was from. I said Cookstown, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, a wee county. I asked could I have a photo of her and I she said 'oh yes', which my mum took.
"I also seen Prince Edward and Sophie. Everyone was so happy and friendly and I chatted to lots of interesting people," she added.
A keen fashion lover, Kate made sure she looked her best on the day and picked up her pink and white dress from her local High Street and accompanied it with a custom-made headpiece.
"My outfit was from Vero Moda, bought in Menarys in Cookstown. My headpiece was made by Gibson Bespoke. It had freshwater pearls and diamonds. I had tried lots and lots of dresses and shoes and I decided on a sweet dress with my favourite colours pink and white."
Kate is currently in the running for most stylish newcomer at the Style Awards for VIP magazine and has lots of other projects line up with her agency in the near future.
"I just love style and fashion. My agency ACA have booked fashion shows in Belfast, coming up soon. And I've been nominated for the Style awards VIP magazine, so I'll be needing another dress!"
You can vote for Kate in the awards via this link and check out her Instagram HERE.
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Read more: Kate Grant becomes first model with Down’s Syndrome to be signed in NI
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