The Duchess of Sussex has set tongues wagging across royal circles with the surprise launch of her new lifestyle venture, American Riviera Orchard, featuring an exclusive line of luxury strawberry jam.
Meghan Markle chose a particularly sensitive moment to unveil her entrepreneurial project, releasing the first product just as the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, continues her recovery from cancer treatment. The timing has left royal commentators divided, with some praising her business acumen while others question the appropriateness.
A Taste of Controversy
Royal expert Kinsey Schofield expressed concerns about the venture's presentation, noting that the promotional materials featuring Meghan in elegant evening wear might send mixed messages. "The optics are complicated," Schofield remarked. "While entrepreneurship should be celebrated, the glamorous approach during a period of royal health challenges has raised some eyebrows."
The launch strategy saw Meghan sending carefully packaged jars of her strawberry preserve to fifty influential friends and content creators across the United States. Each jar arrived in elegant packaging with a personal note from the Duchess herself.
Brand Ambition Meets Royal Tradition
American Riviera Orchard represents Meghan's most significant commercial venture since stepping back from royal duties with Prince Harry in 2020. The brand's Instagram account appeared without warning, quickly amassing followers while showcasing the sophisticated aesthetic Meghan has become known for.
However, the move has ignited fresh debate about the delicate balance between commercial pursuits and royal associations. Traditionalists argue that while the Sussexes are no longer working royals, their continued use of titles while building commercial brands creates an uncomfortable overlap.
The California Connection
The brand's name pays homage to the couple's current home in Montecito, California, often referred to as the "American Riviera" for its stunning coastal scenery and affluent communities. This geographic nod underscores the Sussexes' complete transition to their new life across the Atlantic.
As the jam begins appearing on social media feeds and in celebrity kitchens, the conversation continues about how modern royals—both working and former—navigate the complex intersection of tradition, commerce, and public expectation in the digital age.
