Princess Lilibet Christened in Private California Ceremony by Meghan and Prince Harry

• celebrities

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have announced the baptism of their daughter, Princess Lilibet Diana. The private ceremony was held at their villa in Montecito, California and was attended by close family and friends, but not members of the royal family.

Breaking with British Tradition

The Sussexes broke with the British tradition of baptism and instead, embraced the Anglican rite. The godfather of Princess Lilibet was billionaire Tyler Perry, a close friend who helped the couple when they first arrived in America and provided them with his house.

No Response from the Royal Family

According to sources, Harry and Meghan invited the royal family, specifically Prince Charles and Camilla, and Prince William and Kate, to the baptism ceremony in California, but they did not respond.

A spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stated, "I can confirm that Princess Lilibet Diana was christened on Friday, March 3 by the bishop in the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles, the Rev John Taylor."

A Family Affair

An insider reported that there were 20-30 guests in attendance at the intimate gathering, including Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, Princess Lilibet's godfather, Tyler Perry, and an unnamed godmother.

The ceremony was followed by an afternoon of food and dancing, with Prince Archie enjoying a dance with his little sister.

A Wish for Family Relationships

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Prince Harry spoke of his wish for his children to have meaningful relationships with the royal family.

He stated, "I've said before that I've wanted a family, not an institution—so of course, I would love nothing more than for our children to have relationships with members of my family, and they do with some, which brings me great joy." The one-year-old was named "Princess Lilibet Diana" in memory of Prince Harry's mother, Princess Diana.

The couple was given the right to use the title for Princess Lilibet and Prince Archie when Prince Charles became the king, and the Sussexes immediately accepted.