Camilla Shand: Camilla Parker Bowles was born Camilla Shand in the English county of Sussex in 1947.
An advantaged upringing: She had a privileged life, growing up on a large country estate with her two siblings, and attending the elite Queen's Gate school in London.
Crossing paths for the first time: Camilla first met the then-Prince Charles at a polo match in Windsor Great Park.
An instant connection: They also shared a similar sense of humor. Charles and Camilla are still regularly seen giggling together at royal engagements to this day.
A bit close to home: camilla reportedly said to Charles, “My great-grandmother was the mistress of your great-great-grandfather.
Charles leaves for the Navy: They began dating after this meeting in 1970, but Charles had to leave to serve in the Royal Navy for eight months.
Camilla marries Andrew Parker Bowles: In July of 1973, Camilla married her betrothed, Andrew Parker Bowles.
A platonic relationship: Camilla and Charles remained friends even after the marriage, as they always had fun together.
Searching for a suitable candidate: It’s rumored that Charles asked his good friend Camilla to help him settle on a suitable girl.
Charles meets Lady Diana: Several years down the line in 1980, a 31-year-old Charles began dating an 18-year-old Diana Spencer.