Meghan Markle, also known as the Duchess of Sussex, has unveiled what seems to be a fresh venture named American Riviera Orchard, featuring a new website and Instagram presence.
On Thursday, March 14, a new website and Instagram account for American Riviera Orchard emerged online. The Instagram bio simply identifies it as “By Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex. Established 2024.” The initial Instagram Story showcases Meghan, aged 42, engaged in flower-picking and cooking in a kitchen, accompanied by the tune “I Wish You Love” by Nancy Wilson. The name American Riviera Orchard likely draws inspiration from Santa Barbara, the Californian town where Meghan resides with Prince Harry and their children, 4-year-old Prince Archie and 2-year-old Princess Lilibet.
Santa Barbara has long been dubbed the “American Riviera” due to its moderate climate, lush scenery, and thriving food and wine scene. The logo incorporates Montecito, the neighborhood where they live.
A pending trademark application for American Riviera Orchard reveals plans to offer tableware, drinkware (including decanters), kitchen linens, and edible treats like jellies, jams, marmalade, and spreads. The application also seeks approval for cookbooks. Additionally, the waitlist signup promises to keep subscribers informed about “products, availability, and updates,” resembling Meghan’s previous venture, The Tig—a lifestyle blog she ran from 2014 to 2017, featuring her favorite culinary and travel discoveries along with personal reflections.
This marks Meghan or Prince Harry’s return to public social media presence since 2020 when they last updated their @SussexRoyal Instagram page after stepping back from royal duties.
Following their engagement, Meghan deactivated her personal social media accounts, including her Instagram with 3 million followers, and shut down The Tig blog. Subsequently, royal updates were shared on the @KensingtonRoyal accounts alongside Prince William and Kate Middleton’s news. In 2019, Meghan and Prince Harry launched the @SussexRoyal Instagram account to establish a separate platform from William and Kate.
