Critics Slam Meghan Markle’s New Venture as American Riviera Orchard

Meghan Markle's foray into the lifestyle industry with her latest brand, American Riviera Orchard, has sparked criticism from various quarters.

The announcement of her new venture was made through an Instagram post, but the response has been far from enthusiastic.

The Royal News Network, in a scathing review, highlighted Meghan Markle's ongoing struggle with naming things, citing American Riviera Orchard as a prime example of a poorly chosen and unappealing name.

The brand's promotional video featured Meghan strolling around a $14 million mansion in an extravagant black gown, a move that drew ire for its lack of relatability.

Critics pointed out the irony of promoting accessibility while showcasing luxury items worth thousands of dollars.

Comparisons were drawn to Blake Lively's short-lived Preserve venture, with doubts raised about the longevity of American Riviera Orchard's success.

Confusion surrounding the nature of the brand further fueled the backlash, with one user questioning whether it was a hotel, wine label, restaurant, blog, or fashion line.

The ambiguous name left many scratching their heads, prompting comments about its oddity and lack of clarity.

Despite the skepticism, some expressed hope that Meghan's focus on her business endeavors would lead to less involvement in royal affairs and a departure from a perceived victimhood narrative.

Vulture magazine joined the chorus of criticism, describing Meghan's Instagram announcement as out of touch with the current climate surrounding the royal family.

The timing of the launch, amidst health concerns within the monarchy and ongoing media scrutiny, raised eyebrows and drew accusations of insensitivity.

The decision to introduce American Riviera Orchard at such a tumultuous period was seen as a snub to the royal establishment.

Details of the brand's offerings emerged through a trademark application, revealing plans to sell tableware, drinkware, kitchen linens, and edible treats like jellies, jams, and marmalades.

Cookbooks are also slated to be part of the product lineup, hinting at a culinary focus.

The Instagram account for American Riviera Orchard teased a future full of possibilities, bearing the tagline “by Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, established 2024.”

Critics seized on the underwhelming nature of the brand's inception, mocking the seemingly lackluster start in comparison to its envisioned long-term success.

The juxtaposition of the brand's name with images of opulence and exclusivity further fueled speculations and raised questions about its intended audience and market positioning.

The potential disconnect between Meghan's public image and the brand's messaging added another layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative.

Amidst the backlash, Meghan faced accusations of capitalizing on personal branding at a time when the royal family grapples with internal challenges.

The juxtaposition of feminist ideals with traditional notions of royalty sparked debates online, with some questioning the authenticity of Meghan's entrepreneurial pursuits.

The clash between personal ambition and public expectations underscored the complexities of navigating fame and identity in the modern era.

Reports suggest that American Riviera Orchard will focus on home, garden, food, and lifestyle content, aligning with Meghan's interests in wellness and sustainability.

The brand's name is believed to pay homage to a residence in Santa Barbara, California, known as the American Riviera for its picturesque setting and Mediterranean climate.

The choice of location as a namesake hinted at a blend of luxury and natural beauty, setting the stage for a potentially intriguing brand narrative.