From Royal Life to Lifestyle Visionary—Meghan Markle Redefines Modern Entrepreneurship

A New Chapter for a Royal Rebrand

When Meghan Markle first unveiled her lifestyle brand, few could have predicted the fervor it would generate. Initially introduced under the name American Riviera Orchard—a nod to the couple’s Montecito home—the brand was quietly repositioned as “As Ever” to better reflect its broader mission. The shift wasn’t just semantic; it signified a strategic move away from geographic limitations toward a more inclusive and aspirational identity. By choosing a name that evokes continuity, warmth, and personal connection, Markle signaled her intent to build something timeless, not tethered to place or moment.

The decision to rename the brand came after careful consideration of how consumers perceive authenticity in modern branding. Market research consistently shows that emotionally resonant names perform better in engagement and recall tests. “As Ever” taps into that emotional current—evoking nostalgia, loyalty, and enduring value. It also aligns seamlessly with Meghan’s narrative of creating a life rooted in purpose, not privilege. This subtle but powerful pivot reflects a matured understanding of digital branding in an era where storytelling drives sales.

Family Values Meets Business Strategy

In a recent Instagram post, Meghan gave followers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of As Ever, sharing a behind-the-scenes video shot by Prince Harry. The clip wasn’t just promotional fluff—it was a carefully curated look at the heart of the brand. Amid shots of fruit close-ups and handwritten notes like “Note to self: Let’s do something extraordinary today,” the standout moment was undoubtedly the inclusion of their daughter, Princess Lilibet. At just four years old, she made a charming cameo standing beside her mother on a footbridge, offering a glimpse of the future generation being gently introduced into the world of entrepreneurship.

This deliberate integration of family into the brand’s visual language serves multiple purposes. It reinforces the idea of As Ever as a lifestyle choice rather than a mere commercial enterprise. It also positions Meghan not just as a businesswoman, but as a relatable figure navigating the complexities of parenting, creativity, and legacy-building. In an age where influencer marketing often feels manufactured, these candid moments create a sense of trust and intimacy that traditional advertising can’t replicate.

Product Launches That Caught Fire

From the outset, As Ever made waves. Its inaugural product drop sold out within an hour, with one item—the limited-edition wildflower honey complete with honeycomb—vanishing from shelves in under five minutes. Priced at $28, the product wasn’t just a sweet treat; it was a symbol of artisanal craftsmanship and mindful consumption. The launch collection also included herbal teas in three distinct flavors: hibiscus, peppermint, and lemon ginger, each retailing at $12. These offerings weren’t random—they were chosen to appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking both flavor and function.

The speed at which these items disappeared suggests a built-in audience eager to support Meghan’s next chapter. But beyond the frenzy, there’s a deeper story here. Each product is designed to be experiential, inviting customers to engage with the brand through taste, touch, and ritual. This approach mirrors trends seen in premium wellness brands that emphasize sensory experiences over transactional purchases. By positioning As Ever as a curator of lifestyle moments rather than a retailer of goods, Markle has tapped into a growing consumer desire for meaningful, holistic living.

Netflix Partnership: A Strategic Media Move

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of As Ever’s rollout is its partnership with Netflix. The streaming giant isn’t just distributing the brand’s affiliated lifestyle show, “With Love, Meghan”—it’s also directly involved in content production. This collaboration marks a significant evolution in celebrity branding, where entertainment platforms become integral to product narratives. Unlike traditional endorsements or branded content, this model blurs the lines between commerce and culture, allowing the audience to experience the brand through immersive storytelling.

“With Love, Meghan” debuted in March 2024 and was swiftly renewed for a second season—an indicator of both viewer interest and Netflix’s confidence in the project. The show doesn’t just showcase recipes or home décor tips; it offers insight into Meghan’s worldview, blending lifestyle guidance with personal anecdotes. This format allows the brand to maintain relevance and engagement far beyond typical product cycles, turning viewers into brand advocates through shared experiences rather than repeated advertisements.

Marketing Through Moments, Not Messages

Meghan’s social media strategy deserves special attention. After taking a multi-year break from platforms, her return was anything but quiet. Announcing As Ever via Instagram was a calculated move—one that leveraged her existing follower base while signaling a new phase of transparency. Rather than relying on polished PR campaigns, she opts for intimate visuals that feel organic. Whether it’s a handwritten note or a spontaneous shot of Lilibet, each post contributes to a larger narrative of authenticity and aspiration.

This style of marketing aligns with current best practices in digital branding, where micro-moments and user-generated content drive engagement. By focusing on real-life interactions rather than scripted promos, As Ever avoids the pitfalls of overt commercialism. Instead, it invites consumers into a world they want to be part of—not because of what they’re buying, but because of how it makes them feel. In doing so, Markle has crafted a brand that’s less about products and more about presence.