Meghan Markle is returning to her lifestyle roots with a mysterious new venture

Amanda Krause

March 14, 2024 10:46 PM

Meghan Markle has something up her sleeve.

Meghan Markle in Dusseldorf, Germany, on September 6, 2022.Samir Hussein/WireImage

Meghan Markle has launched a new website and Instagram page called American Riviera Orchard.
Fans speculate the venture may be similar to The Tig, Markle's pre-royal blog.
A trademark application suggests the website may be used to sell kitchen products and food items.

On Thursday, the Duchess of Sussex launched a website and matching Instagram page for a new venture called American Riviera Orchard.

So far, the brand's Instagram page displays nine photos that align to show the brand's name and a monogram logo followed by "Montecito," the California city where Markle has lived since relocating to the US.

On the brand's Instagram story, American Riviera Orchard also shared a video of Markle arranging flowers and baking while "I Wish You Love" by Nancy Wilson plays as background music.

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A post shared by @americanrivieraorchard

It's unclear what exactly Markle's new venture will entail, though fans have speculated that it may be similar to the blog she ran before marrying Prince Harry.

Called The Tig, Markle's original website featured recipes, advice, and personal essays from the then-actor.

Markle shut down the website in 2017 before her engagement to Harry, and her team filed to renew The Tig's trademark in 2019 to prevent people from using the name and impersonating her.

Some have also questioned the timing of the brand's launch, which comes amid speculation over Kate Middleton's absence from public life. The website was also announced on the same day Prince William and Prince Harry are expected to appear separately at an awards event honoring Princess Diana, with William giving a speech in person and Harry attending virtually to speak with the winners afterward.

Markle has not shared any further information about American Riviera Orchard, and the brand's Instagram bio simply states, "by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex. Established 2024."

However, a trademark application for American Riviera Orchard awaiting examination shows the brand intends to sell items including tableware, cookbooks, jams and spreads, and tablecloths.

Commenting has been turned off on the brand's Instagram page.

Amanda Krause