Meghan Markle's recent launch of her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, has reportedly brought a sense of relief to the Royal Family. The Duchess of Sussex unveiled her new line of artisan jams on Instagram, distributing 50 jars to celebrity friends for social media promotion. This move stands in stark contrast to earlier speculation about Meghan potentially releasing a revealing book about her royal experiences.
Emma Clifton, a writer for Australian Women's Weekly, suggests that Meghan's focus on American Riviera Orchard is likely to be well-received by the royals. Celebrity PR expert Waylon Tate explained that Meghan appears to be positioning this venture as her solo project, separate from her previous collaborations with Prince Harry on Netflix and Spotify.
Tate remarked: "What I've seen so far, although she's been pretty clandestine about everything surrounding this new brand, is that it's Meghan and it's Meghan alone. You can even see it on Instagram. It's not Meghan and Harry - it's by Meghan." He added: "This is the emancipation of Meghan. It's her saying, 'I'm a smart, savvy businesswoman. And here's an introduction to my family on my terms'."
Clifton noted that the pivot from a rumored tell-all memoir to a lifestyle brand has likely been a welcome change for the palace. "Considering how much anticipation there was for Meghan's supposed 'tell-all novel,' her pivot into domestic goddess should surely mean there are a few sighs of relief around the palace... for now."
Despite the release of Prince Harry's 2021 memoir, "Spare," Harry reportedly advised Meghan against writing her own memoir. PR guru Mayah Riaz told The Daily Mirror that Harry's intervention was a prudent step. "If it is true that Prince Harry has 'blocked' Meghan from writing a memoir, this seems to be a prudent move in their efforts to build bridges with the Royal Family. It suggests that Harry intends to avoid further controversy and maintain a more positive relationship with his family."
Meghan's new venture not only showcases her business acumen but also signals a potential shift towards a more harmonious relationship with the royal family, guided by Prince Harry's advice.
