Meghan Markle’s cryptic birthday message has been clarified after speculation that it was aimed at Queen Camilla. The Duchess of Sussex posted a video on Instagram Stories showing her unboxing a crate of three bottles of wine from her lifestyle brand, As Ever, with the caption: “Sending birthday love (both near and far) to my ladies,” alongside a heart emoji.
Many assumed the message was for Queen Camilla, who celebrated her 78th birthday on the same day. However, it has emerged that the gifts were likely for Meghan’s close friends Heather Dorak and Jamie Kern Lima, who both posted similar boxes on their own Instagram Stories, thanking Meghan for the presents.
Dorak shared a picture of the box with a sprig of lavender, writing: “You know how to make a friend feel special @meghan.” Lima, who recently hosted Meghan on her podcast, added: “@meghan thank you for the most magical birthday basket! Our friendship is a gift, as is your beautiful soul!”
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla marked her birthday with a new portrait released by Buckingham Palace. The photo, taken by Chris Jackson, shows the Queen smiling in a turquoise dress at her Wiltshire residence, Ray Mill House. She is said to be spending the day privately, a change from last year when she attended the State Opening of Parliament.
The King, who continues treatment for cancer, has been supported by Camilla throughout their marriage. The couple recently celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary and hosted a state visit by the French president before their upcoming summer break in Scotland.
