Meghan Markle was reportedly "in tears" over the "unfair criticism" of her new lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard. The Duchess of Sussex announced her new business venture in March, and initially teased fans with vague details about her brand. In a cryptic video that was artfully shot at her and Prince Harry ’s mansion in Montecito, the Duchess of Sussex could be seen cooking in the kitchen, as well as walking around the lavish grounds of their family home.
Details of what Meghan would be selling soon emerged, and as well as kitchen and homeware, the mother-of-two was planning on launching her own line of oils, nut butters, jams, and preserves, as well as home fragrances and furnishings. Fuss over the Duchess’ new brand soon died down, and after no more details were given by Meghan about when American Riviera Orchard would eventually go live, she was forced to prepare for a huge PR drive to improve her image before the launch. However, royal expert and author Tom Quinn believes that Meghan would have been devastated following the lacklustre reception to American Riviera Orchard, especially after the criticism she received over her new jam.
"The one fly in the ointment is Meghan’s new internet brand, America Riviera Orchard. Meghan was in tears when the brand launched and her new jam was widely mocked for being expensive and nothing special," he explained. "She has reached the point now where she thinks that anything and everything she does will be unfairly critici.