Meghan Markle's American Riviera Orchard is the entry point for the Duchess to reinvent herself as a lifestyle influencer. Through the brand, the former actress also returned to social media after years away. Before becoming a member of the royal family, Markle was popular for her expertise on fashion, interiors, restaurants, travel, and more, all of which she shared on her then-lifestyle blog, The Tig. Now that she's back on the lifestyle scene, everyone is wondering if this will once again propel Markle to her status as a lifestyle guru, or if it's just a business misstep.
This will only become clear when the brand officially launches, and according to some reports, it looks like the time for a possible release has finally come.
When will Meghan Markle's American Riviera Orchard open?
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's luck hasn't improved this year, as they've faced a series of business setbacks in 2023. But earlier this year, it seemed as though Meghan Markle had finally found her golden ticket with the launch of American Riviera Orchard. But the venture was soon plagued by trademark issues and entangled in bureaucratic red tape, delaying the launch. However, People magazine's source says the lifestyle brand is set to launch later this year, and Markle has been “busy working behind the scenes to prepare.”
Sources also clarified rumors that Markle had trouble finding a CEO for her brand. A source recently told Closer that about 20 staff members who worked at American Riviera Orchard had quit, citing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's “very demanding and difficult” work environment. It was also alleged that Markle's inability to secure a CEO delayed the launch of the brand, but a source for PEOPLE confirmed that these reports were untrue. Still, the success of American Riviera Orchard remains in jeopardy.
In May, a royal expert explained why many think Meghan Markle is another flop at American Riviera Orchard.
Meghan Markle's gift fails to impress fans
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Meghan Markle's American Riviera Orchard will reportedly include fabrics, food, gardening supplies, tableware, cosmetics and pet products. Though the products have not been confirmed, the jams have generated quite a bit of buzz after being endorsed by Markle's celebrity friends. There have also been rumors that the brand makes dog biscuits. But since then, the noise around American Riviera Orchard has been completely quiet. Tom Quinn believes the Duchess is struggling to understand why her creations don't resonate with people.
Quinn noted that the new jam has been subject to ridicule for being too expensive for jam. However, rather than responding to the feedback, Markle reportedly felt she was being “unfairly criticized.” Quinn added, “From her perspective, this is something that should not be criticized, but celebrated.” While the frenzy surrounding the venture has died down since the announcement, hope remains until the brand launches.
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What do you think about Meghan Markle's launch of a lifestyle brand? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
