The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has made a significant announcement for her lifestyle brand, As Ever, while simultaneously sharing a tender detail about the early days of her relationship with Prince Harry.
A Nostalgic Business Move
Meghan revealed that her brand is collaborating with the exclusive Soho House in West Hollywood to launch a physical pop-up shop. This marks a major first for As Ever, allowing customers to browse products from her Christmas gifting range and her famous jam in person for the first time.
The Duchess took to Instagram to share a glimpse of the pop-up, using the caption to explain the profound personal significance of the venue. She described it as a 'full circle moment', noting that the brand, the location, and her friends there have been a long-standing part of her life.
The Royal Love Story Connection
Most notably, Meghan connected the pop-up directly to her 'love story' with Prince Harry. She disclosed that their very first date in 2016 was at a Soho House restaurant. This confirms previous accounts of their whirlwind romance beginning with a brief one-hour meeting at the members' club in London, which led to their marriage just two years later.
Some of her supporters have revelled in this intentional link, with one fan online praising how she intertwines the brand with the special memories of her first date and even her first kiss with Harry.
Mixed Public Reception
While the news has excited many of Meghan's fans, who are thrilled at the chance to see her products physically and have pleaded for a similar shop in London's Soho House, it has also drawn criticism.
Some royal watchers and social media users have been sceptical. Critics on platforms like X have labelled the pop-up as 'lame' and a potential sign that the brand is struggling, suggesting that renting space is a 'last resort'. Others have questioned the limited weekday opening hours of 10 am to 4 pm and the choice of a members-only club location.
Despite the divided opinions, the announcement successfully merges the commercial ambitions of the Duchess of Sussex with a poignant chapter from her personal life, creating a notable moment for both her business and her public narrative.
