Meghan's venture into the realm of American Riviera Orchard on Instagram unfolded just a week following her participation in a social media panel in Texas, where she addressed the perils of online platforms.
This new endeavor, centered around lifestyle and culinary delights, aligns neatly with her anticipated cooking show debut on Netflix. The Instagram profile boasted a sleek logo and a bio proudly proclaiming Megan as "The Duchess of Sussex," with a link to a website inviting eager followers to join a waitlist.
Currently boasting 525,000 followers, the account's authenticity was brought into question when it was discovered that Meghan had resorted to purchasing followers, leaving her with a mere 173,000 genuine subscribers.
The brand's logo, adorned with the label "Montecito," pays homage to the California enclave where Meghan and Prince Harry have settled since stepping away from royal duties. Reports suggest that American Riviera Orchard will curate an array of home essentials, including cookbooks and culinary delights, inspired by the couple's newfound haven.
Despite Meghan's fervor for women's rights, opinions vary on the venture's feminist credentials. Kate Manley, assistant editor for the Times, expressed skepticism, likening it to a relic of the past rather than a beacon of empowerment. She remarked, "It sounds like a defunct record label," highlighting the incongruity of championing women's causes while peddling aspirational lifestyles.
Critics also questioned the authenticity of the venture, with PR expert Ryan McCormack highlighting several shortcomings. From the suspicious surge in Instagram followers to the lack of engagement on posts, Ryan flagged numerous red flags. He criticized the absence of a clear mission statement or product line on the company's website, suggesting a missed opportunity for Megan to capitalize on the buzz surrounding her brand.
The inclusion of Meghan's royal title in the bio stirred further controversy, with detractors arguing that it undermines her credibility. Social media users were quick to voice their disdain, questioning the relevance of royal titles in a democratic society. Amidst the criticism, Megan's decision to wield her royal moniker in the pursuit of commercial success elicited mixed reactions, underscoring the delicate balance between legacy and reinvention.
.webp)
