**Carol Middleton, Mother of Princess of Wales, to Retire from Family Business**

Carol Middleton, the mother of Catherine, the Princess of Wales, is preparing to step back from Party Pieces, the family business that brought her immense success.

Alongside her husband, Michael Middleton, they have transformed their modest kitchen table enterprise into a thriving empire specializing in party wear and decorations.

The Middletons have made the decision to retire and are currently in talks with potential investors to take over the company in the upcoming weeks while preserving its legacy.

With six grandchildren and the royal duties keeping Catherine and Prince William occupied, Carol has recognized that the time has come for her to move on from the business she helped build.

This marks the end of an era as the beloved mother of the Princess of Wales bids farewell to the family's party wear venture.

While the news evokes mixed emotions, there is a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead for Carol, Michael, and their family.

The journey of the Middletons has been nothing short of remarkable.

Originating as a simple concept by Carol during her pregnancy with son James in 1987, Party Pieces has evolved into a prominent name in British celebrations.

The company even supplied products for the anticipated coronation of King Charles III, serving as a poignant moment before the Middleton's official retirement.

Despite its success, Party Pieces faced challenges during the pandemic, enduring tough trading conditions and escalating costs.

Financial reports from last October revealed a significant loss in 2021, amounting to £285,506, contributing to a total deficit of £1.35 million for the company.

However, resilience runs deep within the Middleton family, with all three children having contributed to the business at various stages.

The Middletons' recent relocation to Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor Estate, closer to their Berkshire roots, has further strengthened family bonds.

This move has facilitated Carol's role as a devoted grandmother, particularly towards Catherine's children – George IX, Charlotte VII, and Louis IV.

Additionally, their daughter Pippa and her husband, James Matthews, have also expanded the family with three grandchildren, Arthur IV, Grace II, and baby Rose.

The proximity of family members in Berkshire, including son James and his wife Elise, has solidified Carol's ties to Bucklebury, where the family resides in a stunning Grade II listed manor house.

This closeness to loved ones contrasts with the physical distance from the company's offices located in Ash Hampstead, emphasizing the importance of family connections in Carol's life.

The decision to retire aligns with Carol and Michael's desire to dedicate more time to their cherished grandchildren.

While the legacy of Party Pieces will be missed, there is an air of optimism surrounding the future endeavors of the Middleton family.

Their unity, work ethic, and entrepreneurial spirit suggest that they will navigate this transition with grace and resilience, possibly exploring new business ventures or embarking on global adventures.

As we bid farewell to an era marked by the Middleton family's entrepreneurial success, we eagerly anticipate the exciting chapters that lie ahead.

Cheers to Carol and Michael as they embark on this new phase of their lives, guided by the same poise and elegance that have defined the Middleton legacy for years.