Additional Coverage:
- Meghan Markle can make her Martha Stewart era a success — but she shouldn’t try to be relatable, PR pros say (businessinsider.com)
Meghan Markle Launches Lifestyle Brand, But Will It Resonate?
The Duchess of Sussex is back, and this time, she’s bringing lifestyle tips and treats. Her new Netflix show, “With Love, Meghan,” premiered Tuesday, showcasing her knack for everything from crafting DIY bath salts to harvesting honey. The show complements her upcoming lifestyle brand, As Ever, set to launch this spring with a line of spreads, teas, baking mixes, and more.
This venture marks a return to Meghan’s blogging roots, but it’s a crowded market. Can she carve a niche for herself alongside established giants like Martha Stewart, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jessica Alba? Experts say it will be an uphill battle, especially given the challenge of balancing her royal status with relatability.
The lifestyle industry is notoriously competitive. While Meghan’s passion for the lifestyle space is evident, she needs a unique selling point.
Experts suggest focusing on a clear brand identity and consistent messaging. This has been a challenge for Meghan in the past, with ventures like her animated series “Pearl” and Spotify podcast failing to gain traction.
Adding to the complexity is the public perception of Meghan’s post-royal life. Her recent rebranding from American Riviera Orchard to As Ever, while seemingly straightforward, was complicated by trademark issues. Such incidents, combined with a perceived lack of transparency, can fuel public distrust.
“With Love, Meghan” offers a softer, more aspirational image compared to the bombshell revelations of her and Harry’s docuseries, “Harry & Meghan.” This shift targets a different audience, one less interested in royal drama and more focused on lifestyle inspiration.
Meghan’s existing fanbase, particularly young women and Black women, could be key to her success. Experts believe focusing on this demographic, often overlooked by mainstream lifestyle brands, could be a powerful strategy. Positioning herself alongside philanthropists like Melinda Gates and Oprah Winfrey, rather than lifestyle gurus, could further strengthen her brand.
The challenge remains: how does someone as unique as a duchess connect with everyday consumers? Ironically, her royal status might be the answer.
Americans love a fairy tale, and Meghan’s story – a successful actress who married a prince – is undeniably captivating. By embracing her extraordinary life, she can inspire others to add a touch of sparkle to their own.
“With Love, Meghan” offers a 24/7 platform to showcase her personality and sell her brand. By sharing her story and the inspiration behind As Ever, she can connect with audiences on a deeper level. Ultimately, Meghan’s success hinges on her ability to weave her fairy tale into a relatable narrative, inspiring others while staying true to herself.