Meghan Markle has introduced a new brand called American Riviera Orchard, a name that certainly exudes luxury—especially for someone who once claimed she desired a simple and private life.
However, the most striking aspect of this launch is the way she appears to be tying it to the late Queen Elizabeth through symbolic imagery. After the Queen’s passing, Harry mentioned in his memoir that he saw a hummingbird and took it as a sign from his grandmother. Now, Meghan’s products prominently feature hummingbirds, a move that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Reports suggest that King Charles is furious, and understandably so. His mother, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, is now seemingly being used as a marketing tool to sell preserves—a move that many view as deeply inappropriate.
In stark contrast, Prince William and Catherine continue to honor the Queen’s legacy with dignity and grace. Even as Catherine faces her own health challenges, she has remained a pillar of strength and class, embodying what true royalty represents. Meghan, on the other hand, once claimed to have had no prior knowledge of the royal family before meeting Harry. Yet, she now appears to know exactly how to leverage every royal connection for financial gain. Every endeavor she undertakes seems to transform into a PR opportunity, and the timing of this brand launch is particularly questionable—coinciding with Catherine’s health struggles. Once again, Meghan finds a way to shift the focus back to herself.
The choice to sell jams and preserves is also notable. Queen Elizabeth was known for her fondness for the preserves made at Balmoral, a tradition that carried genuine sentiment. Now, Meghan appears to be capitalizing on this association, making it easy to understand why King Charles would be outraged. This situation extends beyond mere business—it is about respect for the family, for tradition, and for the legacy of a monarch who dedicated her life to service. The attempt to frame this as a tribute is almost laughable. Meghan’s team claims the hummingbirds are a nod to Harry, while the palm trees symbolize California, but it all seems far too calculated.
Adding to the controversy, reports suggest that Meghan’s brand may have copied a logo from a small Spanish town, which is now considering legal action. It’s not just a matter of inspiration—this appears to be a direct appropriation of a coat of arms, reinforcing the perception that she takes whatever she fancies and claims it as her own. The contrast between Meghan’s actions and those of the working royals could not be more pronounced. While William and Catherine focus on their responsibilities, charitable work, and their role within the monarchy, Meghan is in Montecito playing the role of a lifestyle guru, seemingly monetizing every possible connection to royalty.
Having followed the royal family for years, this situation stands out as unprecedented. Choosing to leave the royal family was one thing—that was their decision. However, continuously profiting from royal ties and using the Queen’s memory to market a brand crosses a line. Even more surprising is Harry’s silence. The man who once fiercely protected his family is now allowing it to be turned into a branding strategy. His belief that the hummingbirds are a meaningful sign takes on a bitter irony as they now adorn Meghan’s products.
The palace’s frustration is entirely justified. This controversy is not just about jam or branding—it is about respect, family, and upholding the traditions that defined the Queen’s reign. What is particularly heartbreaking is remembering how the Queen welcomed Meghan into the family, extending kindness and inclusion. Now, her memory is being used to sell luxury preserves. The British public is not easily deceived; they recognize the difference between genuine service and a cash grab. It seems that King Charles and Queen Camilla are coming to that realization as well.
