But it wasn’t always so cut-and-dry.

Traditionally, only spouses get the coveted invitation.

Duchess Kate still gets to see her own Middleton clan between these rigorous royal festivities, however.E!

Kate Middleton with a Christmas tree

Needless to say,the Cambridge children never run low on presentsfrom their royal family members or the Middletons!

Prince William and Kate Middleton walking outside at Christmas