As Ever

Meghan Markle's "As Ever": A New Chapter for Her Lifestyle Brand

Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has officially relaunched her lifestyle brand, introducing "As Ever" to the world. This marks a significant shift from its initial iteration as "American Riviera Orchard," and Canadians are taking notice. With an estimated traffic volume (buzz) of 2000, the announcement has generated considerable interest, signifying a fresh start for the Duchess's foray into the world of lifestyle branding.

What's the Buzz About "As Ever"?

The rebrand was unveiled on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, nearly a year after the initial launch of American Riviera Orchard. The new website and associated Instagram account offer a glimpse into Meghan's vision for the brand, hinting at a focus that remains true to her passions. The relaunch included a photo that appears to feature Meghan's daughter, Lilibet, adding a personal touch to the brand's introduction.

Recent Updates: A Timeline of the Rebrand

• Early 2024: Meghan Markle announces the launch of "American Riviera Orchard," with trademarks filed for a range of products including preserves and homeware.
• February 18, 2025: The brand is officially relaunched as "As Ever," with a new website and Instagram presence.
• Ongoing: Details about specific products and the official launch date are eagerly anticipated by followers and media outlets.

"As Ever": More Than Just a Name

The name "As Ever" carries a deeper meaning, reflecting Meghan's long-standing interests and passions. According to reports, Meghan herself has stated that "'As ever' means 'as it's always been' or some even say 'in the same way as always.'" She alluded to her earlier blog, "The Tig," which ran from 2014 until she shut it down in 2017 before her marriage to Prince Harry. "If you've followed along since my days of creating The Tig, you'll know this couldn't be more me. I've always loved cooking and crafting and gardening." This suggests that "As Ever" will likely encompass similar themes, offering a curated selection of products and content centered around home, garden, food, and lifestyle.

The Context: From "The Tig" to "American Riviera Orchard" to "As Ever"

To understand the significance of "As Ever," it's important to consider the journey that led to its creation. Before becoming the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle cultivated a strong online presence through her lifestyle blog, "The Tig." The blog showcased her personal style, travel experiences, culinary adventures, and perspectives on various aspects of life.

After stepping back from her royal duties, Meghan ventured back into the lifestyle space with "American Riviera Orchard." The name alluded to the couple's life in Montecito, California, often referred to as the "American Riviera." While the initial concept seemed focused on preserves and homeware, the rebrand to "As Ever" suggests a broader vision that encompasses Meghan's enduring passions.

This evolution highlights a key aspect of Meghan's brand: authenticity. By aligning the brand name with her personal history and values, she aims to create a more genuine connection with her audience.

Immediate Effects: Anticipation and Speculation

The immediate impact of the "As Ever" relaunch is a surge in anticipation and speculation. Social media is abuzz with discussions about the brand's potential offerings, aesthetic, and target audience. Industry analysts are also weighing in, assessing the brand's prospects in the competitive lifestyle market.

The relaunch has also sparked interest in the trademarks associated with "American Riviera Orchard." It remains to be seen how these trademarks will be utilized under the "As Ever" umbrella.

Future Outlook: What's Next for "As Ever"?

Looking ahead, the success of "As Ever" will depend on several factors, including the quality of its products, the effectiveness of its marketing strategy, and its ability to resonate with consumers.

Here are some potential outcomes and strategic implications:

• Product Focus: Will "As Ever" focus on a specific niche within the lifestyle market, or will it offer a broad range of products and services? Given Meghan's background and stated interests, it's likely that the brand will prioritize home goods, garden supplies, and artisanal food products.
• Content Strategy: Will "As Ever" incorporate content creation, such as blog posts, videos, and social media engagement? A strong content strategy could help to build brand awareness, foster community, and drive sales.
• Partnerships: Will "As Ever" collaborate with other brands or influencers? Strategic partnerships could expand the brand's reach and credibility.
• Canadian Market: How will "As Ever" cater to the Canadian market? Given the strong interest in Meghan Markle in Canada, there is a significant opportunity to connect with Canadian consumers. This could involve offering products that are specifically tailored to the Canadian market, partnering with Canadian retailers, or engaging with Canadian influencers.

Risks and Challenges

Despite the potential for success, "As Ever" also faces certain risks and challenges. The lifestyle market is highly competitive, with established brands and emerging players vying for consumer attention. Building brand loyalty and differentiating itself from the competition will be crucial.

Moreover, Meghan Markle's public profile is both an asset and a potential liability. While her fame can attract attention to the brand, it also makes it susceptible to criticism and scrutiny. Maintaining a positive brand image and managing public perception will be essential.

The Bottom Line: A Brand to Watch

"As Ever" represents a new chapter in Meghan Markle's career. By leveraging her personal brand and passions, she aims to create a lifestyle brand that resonates with consumers. While challenges lie ahead, the initial buzz surrounding "As Ever" suggests that it has the potential to make a significant impact on the lifestyle market. Canadians, with their keen interest in lifestyle trends and the Duchess of Sussex, will undoubtedly be watching closely.

Canadian Perspective: Why This Matters

For Canadians, the launch of "As Ever" is more than just a celebrity brand launch. It reflects a broader trend towards conscious consumerism and a desire for authentic brands that align with personal values. Meghan Markle's connection to Canada, having lived in Toronto while filming the TV series "Suits," further amplifies the interest and potential impact of "As Ever" in the Canadian market. Many Canadians feel a sense of connection to her story, making her ventures particularly relevant and closely followed.