Meghan Markle celebrated her 44th birthday yesterday, with her lifestyle brand As Ever leading the tributes on Instagram. The brand shared a new photo of the Duchess of Sussex smiling in a dress and sun hat in a garden, accompanied by a message: 'Celebrating the woman behind it all. She pours her heart, vision and magic touch into every detail, and today, we raise a glass to her! Happy birthday to our founder.'
Despite the birthday messages, Meghan has remained silent on her own Instagram account for almost a month. However, several celebrity friends posted unseen photos and warm wishes. Among them was her Suits co-star Abigail Spencer, who wrote: 'As glorious as the day I met you. Champagne in human form. A creature unlike any other. Thank you for being a sister in this life, and beyond.' Meghan replied: 'Thank you, sweet Abs! Right back at you, and happy birthday to YOU!'
Other tributes came from author Jamie Kern Lima, who called Meghan 'love, light and such a generous friend', and friend Tracy Robbins, who described her as 'sunshine in a bottle'. Make-up artist Daniel Martin also posted a simple 'HBD sis!' alongside a snap of Meghan with her dog Mia.
It is not known how Meghan marked the day, but it likely included husband Prince Harry and their children, Archie and Lilibet. At the weekend, the family watched Archie take a surfing lesson at a nearby beach. Royal expert Jennie Bond said: 'I’m sure that Harry will want to make a fuss of his wife on her special day. He is still head over heels in love with Meghan and will probably organise a romantic dinner or perhaps a beach party.'
Bond added that Meghan should not expect birthday messages from the Royal Family, though Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice may send a card or gift. The past year has seen major changes for Meghan, including the launch of her Instagram account, lifestyle brand, and Netflix cookery show, while the rift with the Royal Family continues.
