Influencer Courtney Palmer was initially taken aback when her videos showcasing her so-called "princess treatment" triggered a wave of backlash. "My content had been resonating with a close-knit community of 16,000 followers, and I cherished the warmth and kindness they brought," Palmer shared in an interview with People, published on July 5th. "But overnight, I was struck by the harshness of some comments. I thought, 'Wow, some people are being really mean,'" she recounted. "Then, I reassured myself, 'It's alright; this storm will pass within 48 hours.'"
However, as more individuals began creating videos in response, Palmer found herself completely floored and filled with regret. "I never intended for it to come across that way, and they're clearly missing the context from my other videos," she lamented. "I never imagined the backlash would linger for this long. It's heartbreaking; we're all just striving to do our best."
Several of Palmer's now-viral videos revealed her adherence to "princess treatment" protocols when out with her husband. This meant she wouldn't open doors for herself or place her own restaurant orders. Her beliefs swiftly drew criticism for supposedly perpetuating stereotypical gender roles rather than empowering herself.
"I speak my mind, I laugh freely, and I make decisions in my life. We enjoy wonderful dinners together," she asserted to People, refuting the accusations. "I cherish the courtesy of my husband taking the lead, confirming our restaurant reservation. He pulls out my chair and orders for me after I've decided what I want to eat. It's not about control; it's about care."
Palmer acknowledged that people might have varying interpretations of "princess treatment." For her, it embodies "a gentle way of life." "It starts with self-care. It's not about him; it's about you. You choose softness, calmness, and grace. It's very deliberate," she elaborated. "You speak kindly to yourself. You create room for peace by embracing your feminine energy without shame."
She continued, "Princess treatment isn't about how others treat you. It's about how you carry yourself, how you uphold your boundaries, and how you navigate the world, knowing you're valuable. The world learns to treat you accordingly. Your softness doesn't grant anyone control over you. Instead, it offers your partner the space to lead with strength."
According to Palmer, she desires her husband of 18 years to be her protector, provider, and equal partner. "He adores me and goes above and beyond to make me feel loved. He's always been this way. We never discussed any of the things I talk about in my videos; it just naturally happened," she explained. "That's what I'm trying to convey through my videos. When you present yourself in a certain manner, he will naturally respond in kind. It's not about coercion or manipulation. You're not playing games."
