Q&A for How to Meet and Greet Royalty

You may shake hands with royalty if you wish as long as the royal initiates it, or you may simply bow or curtsy. Just keep your handshake brief, and don't squeeze too hard!

Children may address royalty the same way adults do. (Whether they will be patient enough to follow all the rules might be a coin toss.)

If you're not a subject of the royal, this is still standard etiquette, but you do not have to bow or curtsy unless you wish to; instead, you may shake hands if the royal initiates. Subjects of the member of royalty are encouraged to bow or curtsy to show respect.

You remain standing. Do not sit down unless you are invited to sit. Under no circumstances should you ever sit on the throne. You cannot stand anywhere you like, either; i.e. not behind the door, in a corner or generally out of sight upon entry. If you are left alone, you must make your presence known audibly as soon as you hear someone entering the room, if only by a polite cough. You remain dignified, silent, standing, taking no initiative of your own. You can inquire as to what is going on, how long they expect you'll have to wait, etc., if this information is not provided voluntarily.

Bow your head down as low as possible and say, "Good [time of day], Your Highness." Sit up straight and don't slouch.