Meghan Markle recently unveiled a surprise new project on a significant date, marking her return to social media with the launch of a potential lifestyle brand named American Riviera Orchard. The Duchess of Sussex introduced a new website and Instagram page for this venture on a poignant day — the fourth anniversary of the 'freedom flight' from Canada to Los Angeles, as highlighted in the Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan.
On March 14, 2020, Meghan, Prince Harry, their son Archie, and Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, flew from Vancouver Island to L.A., symbolizing a pivotal moment in their transition out of their senior working royal roles in the U.K. The couple's journey was captured in a video by Prince Harry, where he referred to the flight as a 'freedom flight' and expressed gratitude towards their friend, director Tyler Perry, who provided them with accommodation in Beverly Hills.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex eventually settled in Montecito, California, where Meghan's latest project seems to draw inspiration from. American Riviera Orchard's name hints at Santa Barbara, known as the 'American Riviera' for its climate, landscapes, and culinary culture. The brand's logo prominently features Montecito, the neighborhood where the Sussex family currently resides.
The project's initial Instagram Story showcases Meghan engaging in activities like flower-picking and cooking, set to the tune of 'I Wish You Love' by Nancy Wilson. The website offers a waitlist signup for updates on products and availability, reminiscent of The Tig, Meghan's previous lifestyle blog that she founded in 2014 and later closed in 2017.
