Queen Mary of Denmark Doesn't Curtsy to Queen Margrethe for the First Time After Change of Reign

Members of Denmark's royal family participated in the Danish Parliament's celebration one day after Queen Margrethe's official abdication

Things have certainly changed for the new King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark!

One day after Queen Margrethe officially stepped down as monarch by signing a declaration of her abdication on Sunday, members of Denmark's royal family gathered for the Danish Parliament's celebration of the new reign.

The newly proclaimed King Frederik, 55, and Queen Mary, 51, reunited with Queen Margrethe, 83, at the event. And there was a major change in how the royals greeted each other. For the first time ever, Queen Mary did not curtsy to her mother-in-law. Instead, Queen Mary said hello to Queen Margrethe with a kiss on the cheek.

As Crown Princess Mary, the Australian-born royal was known for her deep curtsies when greeting Queen Margrethe as well as monarchs and consorts from around the world. Now that she's Queen, Mary does not have to curtsy to monarchs or other consorts. However, she still may choose to do so as a sign of respect.

Related: Europe Now Has No Female Monarchs Following Queen Margrethe of Denmark's Abdication

On Monday, King Frederik greeted his mother with a hug and kisses on both cheeks.

Meanwhile, the new monarch said hello to his younger brother, Prince Joachim, with a friendly hug. As was previously reported, Prince Joachim, who lives and works in the U.S., traveled to Denmark without his wife and children for his mother Queen Margrethe's abdication and brother King Frederik's accession events.

Last year, Queen Margrethe stripped Prince Joachim’s four kids of their prince or princess titles, causing some friction in the family.

King Frederik and Queen Mary were also joined at Monday's event by Princess Benedikte, Queen Margrethe's sister, and Crown Prince Christian, their 18-year-old son who is now heir to the throne.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

While the new King Frederik and Queen Mary appeared on the palace balcony with their four children after the official proclamation on Sunday, no other members of the family joined. Prince Joachim, 54, was spotted in a behind-the-scenes video of the appearance, watching the balcony outing from inside the castle.

Queen Margrethe left the festivities after signing the abdication declaration. In an emotional moment, she stepped aside and allowed King Frederik to take her spot at the head of the table, then said, "God save the King," before exiting the room.

Shortly after, King Frederik appeared solo on the palace balcony. He waved to the cheering crowds from the balcony, looking emotional and wiping away tears.

Denmark's prime minister then stepped forward and proclaimed the change of reign from the balcony at Christiansborg Castle, followed by the King giving a short speech.

He was then joined by Queen Mary, followed by their children — Crown Prince Christian, Princess Isabella, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine.

In a surprise moment, the crowd cheered when King Frederik and Queen Mary shared a kiss.

Related: Why the New King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark Won't Have a Coronation Like King Charles

The united front by the royal couple comes after infidelity rumors made headlines. In November 2023, reports swirled that Frederik was having an affair with Mexican-born socialite Geneveva Casanova after they were photographed together during his private trip to Madrid. Casanova denied allegations of a romantic relationship with the royal.

However, some wondered if Queen Margrethe's surprise abdication — Danish rulers typically reign until their deaths — was a move to bolster her son and daughter-in-law's marriage.

Although Queen Margrethe is no longer the monarch, she will continue to be titled as Her Majesty. She can also be installed as acting regent if King Frederik is abroad or otherwise unable to perform royal duties.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.