Meghan Markle Upset Over Criticism Of Her Lifestyle Brand: Complete Guide & Key Details

So, word on the street is that Meghan Markle is a bit miffed about some of the flak her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, has been getting. And honestly, who can blame her? Launching something new is always a bit like sending your baby out into the world, right? You want everyone to coo and say how wonderful it is, not… well, you know.
It’s kind of like when you spend ages perfecting a sourdough starter. You nurture it, feed it, whisper sweet nothings to it, and then when you finally bake that first loaf, you’re expecting a standing ovation. But what if someone, gasp, says it’s a little… dense? Ouch. That’s probably how Meghan might be feeling.
The Buzz Around American Riviera Orchard
Let’s dive into what this whole American Riviera Orchard thing is actually about. It’s not just a random name, you know. It’s meant to evoke a certain vibe – think sun-drenched California, maybe a touch of old Hollywood glamour, and definitely that laid-back yet sophisticated lifestyle. It’s a nod to her roots, being back in California, and it sounds pretty dreamy, doesn't it?
The brand is supposed to be all about "curated experiences and products," which sounds pretty broad, but also kind of exciting. Imagine beautiful homeware, maybe some delicious artisanal foods (jams, anyone?), and perhaps even some self-care items. It’s like a little slice of aspirational living, delivered to your doorstep. Who wouldn’t want a bit of that?
It’s not her first rodeo with lifestyle, though, is it? Remember The Tig? That was her blog back in the day, where she shared her thoughts on food, travel, and all sorts of fabulous things. So, this feels like a natural progression, a grown-up, supercharged version of that.
What's the Beef?
Okay, so here’s where things get a little… prickly. Apparently, some folks have been a bit critical of the brand before it’s even fully out of the gate. This isn't exactly a shocker in the world of public figures, is it? If you're in the spotlight, everything you do is up for scrutiny, like a microscopic examination of your every move.

The criticism seems to range from questioning the concept of the brand to, well, just general negativity. Some people are calling it a bit… “aspirational,” which can sometimes be a polite way of saying “out of touch” or “unrealistic.” It’s like saying someone’s outfit is “interesting” when you secretly think it’s a bit much. You know that feeling?
Then there's the whole royal connection, or lack thereof, in the branding. Some critics have pointed out that it’s very much a solo venture, not leaning into her royal past. And others, I suppose, are just waiting to pounce on anything she does, for whatever reason. It's a tough gig, being in the public eye.
Why the Upset?
So, why is Meghan reportedly upset? Well, it’s probably a mix of things. Firstly, there's the effort and passion she’s poured into this. It’s not just a quick cash grab; it’s a project she seems genuinely invested in. When you’ve put your heart and soul into something, and people are immediately jumping down your throat, it’s got to sting.

Secondly, it’s the timing. Launching a brand is stressful enough without the added pressure of constant criticism. It’s like trying to build a beautiful sandcastle while a rogue wave is threatening to wash it all away. You just want a bit of peace to get your masterpiece finished.
And then there’s the unfairness. Let’s be real, a lot of this criticism feels like it’s coming from people who have already made up their minds. It’s not always constructive feedback; it’s more like… pre-judgement. And that’s never a fun place to be on the receiving end of.
The Bigger Picture: Lifestyle Brands and Scrutiny
This whole situation also got me thinking about lifestyle brands in general. They’re everywhere now, aren’t they? From Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop to a million influencers on Instagram, everyone’s trying to sell us a certain way of life. It’s a hugely popular market because, let’s face it, we all want to live a little better, right?
But with that popularity comes intense scrutiny. When you’re selling a lifestyle, you’re essentially selling an ideal. And ideals are often seen as unattainable or, worse, as a way to make people feel inadequate. It’s a tricky tightrope to walk.

Think about it: if a brand is too "exclusive," people complain it's out of reach. If it's too "relatable," they might say it's not special enough. It’s a classic case of being damned if you do, damned if you don’t. It’s like trying to please everyone at a potluck – you know, someone’s always going to think their potato salad is better.
Meghan's Approach: A New Chapter?
What’s interesting about Meghan’s brand is how she’s positioning it. It’s very much about her personal journey and her connection to California. It’s not trying to replicate or compete with anything royal. It’s a distinct identity, a fresh start.
And, honestly, that’s pretty cool. It shows a desire to carve out her own path, to build something that’s truly hers. It’s about reclaiming her narrative, in a way. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about sharing a vision.

The "American Riviera" part is particularly evocative. It conjures images of Santa Barbara, with its beautiful beaches and stunning architecture. It’s a place that oozes charm and sophistication, a far cry from the rainy British weather, for sure! It’s a setting that lends itself perfectly to a lifestyle brand focused on beauty, well-being, and maybe a touch of indulgence.
The Future of American Riviera Orchard
So, what does this all mean for American Riviera Orchard? Will the criticism derail it? Probably not. Meghan Markle is a resilient person, and she’s used to navigating choppy waters. If anything, this might just make her dig her heels in and prove the doubters wrong.
It’s a reminder that building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be ups and downs, bouquets and brickbats. The real test will be in the quality of the products and the authenticity of the experience she offers. If she delivers on that, the whispers will likely fade.
Ultimately, it’s fascinating to watch. It’s a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of building something from the ground up, especially when you’re a figure who has captured the world’s attention. We’ll have to wait and see what delightful things American Riviera Orchard has in store for us. Maybe we’ll all be sipping artisanal lemonade from a beautiful branded pitcher before we know it!
