Meghan Markle Launches Lifestyle Brand ‘American Riviera Orchard’ in Return to Pre-Royal Roots

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, made waves on Thursday with the announcement of her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard.

She unveiled this latest venture through cryptic posts on a newly created Instagram account and a teaser video, returning to her pre-royal days and extending the legacy of her former lifestyle blog, “The Tig.” An insider shared with Page Six Style that the brand will focus on home, garden, food, and overall lifestyle products, reflecting Markle’s passions and interests.

The Duchess of Sussex has launched a new brand called American Riviera Orchard. Jack Plunkett/Invision/AP

As revealed through a trademark application obtained by Page Six Style, the brand will offer a diverse range of home goods, including delectable treats like jellies, jams, and spreads, alongside essential tableware staples such as cutlery, linens, and drinkware. Additionally, cookbooks are part of the brand’s filing, hinting at an extensive future offering.

The brand’s logo features an embroidery-like font. American Riviera Orchard

While a representative for Markle remained unavailable for comment, the brand’s logo resembles Meghan’s calligraphy style, reminiscent of her past work in the wedding industry before her royal status.

Despite the initial mystery surrounding the brand, a video posted on its Instagram Story provides a glimpse into Markle’s world, showing her arranging flowers, cooking in a kitchen, and donning an elegant black gown in what appears to be the couple’s Montecito, California home.

A promo video shows Markle in the kitchen. Instagram/@americanrivieraorchard

This new venture aligns with Markle’s reported plans to launch a lifestyle and food show with Netflix, aiming to establish herself as a prominent figure in the lifestyle space akin to Martha Stewart. The timing of this announcement coincides with ongoing speculation about the health and whereabouts of her sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, adding intrigue to Markle’s latest move.

The duchess will focus on lifestyle topics, similar to sites like Goop and Poosh. WireImage

Rumours of Markle’s re-entry into the lifestyle market surfaced in 2020, suggesting a potential rivalry with Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop brand. “The Tig,” Markle’s former blog, covered many topics, from fashion to beauty, and even included her thoughts on royal matters.

The duchess spoke at SXSW last week. Getty Images

Last month, the duchess travelled to Canada for the Invictus Games with her husband, Prince Harry. WireImage

As the anticipation builds for the next steps of American Riviera Orchard, Markle’s foray into the lifestyle sphere promises to be an exciting journey to watch unfold.