Meghan Markle has been working hard behind the scenes on the launch of American Riviera Orchard (ARO) and it sounds like things are finally coming together. Fans have only been teased with snapshots of her limited-edition jams, but there is a lot in the works.
The Duchess of Sussex has reportedly completed filming her cooking project that is headed to Netflix. A source told The Daily Beast that “it all went well and it is in the can.” While an official premiere date hasn’t been shared, the couple’s April press release described the show as one that will “celebrate the joys of cooking & gardening, entertaining, and friendship.” It’s kind of a vague description, so we will have to wait for more details. The series was shot in Montecito at a private residence near their home that was rented by Netflix.
While she’s hoping to launch a lifestyle brand that’s as successful as Martha Stewart, fans have yet to see any products in her ARO line so far. That situation might be changing very soon, and it’s not the jam that will be making its way to people’s kitchens. According to the Daily Mail, the first product from ARO will be rosé wine, similar to Cameron Diaz’s Avaline or Brad Pitt’s (and formerly Angelina Jolie’s) Château Miraval. The outlet describes the decision to launch a wine brand as “aspirationally marketable” and “financially lucrative.”
PR consultant Mark Borkowski told The Daily Beast that he’s watching the Duchess of Sussex’s marketing moves carefully with her cooking show and new products. He explained, “If she has listened and learned and is comfortable in this new role as a kind of sub-Martha Stewart, sub-Oprah, this could be a relaunch to something new and interesting.” Borkowski believes that Meghan “will always generate massive interest” from the media no matter what she touches.
“She brings eyeballs and that means there is a long line of people who would still want to align with her,” he added. “She will always attract somebody who will want to leverage her brand.” The Daily Mail also thinks her rosé launch will also inspire high-end barware, including elegant glasses and other essentials in a “classic, but expensive, style.” It sounds like the perfect pivot for the Duchess.
Before you go, click here to see more of Meghan Markle & Prince Harry’s milestones since leaving the royal family.
