The Duchess of Sussex has set social media abuzz with the unexpected launch of her new lifestyle venture, American Riviera Orchard, distributing artisanal strawberry jam to selected influencers in beautifully packaged jars.
A Taste of Montecito Luxury
Fifty carefully chosen social media personalities and friends received the surprise deliveries this week, each containing a sleek jar of the limited-edition preserve. The packaging features elegant gold lettering against a cream background, bearing the brand name and the product description: "American Riviera Orchard Strawberry Jam."
What's raising eyebrows in royal circles, however, is the subtle but significant detail on the accompanying note card. The correspondence bears the title "The Office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex" - a move that may test the boundaries of royal commercial engagement rules.
Royal Protocol Under Scrutiny
When Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in 2020, they agreed with the late Queen not to use their HRH styles while pursuing commercial ventures. The use of their ducal titles in business contexts remains a grey area that continues to generate discussion among royal commentators.
"The question isn't whether they can use their titles," explains royal protocol expert Eleanor Thompson. "It's how they use them in commercial settings. This carefully worded approach shows they're navigating those waters with precision."
Strategic Brand Launch
The American Riviera Orchard Instagram account made its debut earlier this month, quickly amassing significant follower numbers despite posting minimal content. The brand's aesthetic suggests a focus on upscale home and lifestyle products, with the strawberry jam serving as an introductory offering.
Industry insiders note the strategic timing and method of this soft launch. "By sending products to influencers rather than making a formal announcement," says marketing analyst James Peterson, "they're generating organic buzz while maintaining an air of exclusivity."
What Lies Ahead for the Brand
While details remain scarce, trademark applications suggest the brand may expand into cookbooks, tableware, and various food products. The Montecito-based operation appears positioned to compete in the premium lifestyle market, leveraging the couple's global profile while establishing their post-royal commercial identity.
The carefully orchestrated reveal has certainly achieved its immediate goal: putting American Riviera Orchard on the map and leaving everyone wondering what the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will unveil next from their California empire.
