Martha Stewart thinks it’s ‘insulting’ to compare her with ‘rookie’ Meghan Markle, says insider
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Meghan Markle is looking to make big strides with her lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard. She's already drawing comparisons to industry heavyweights like Martha Stewart—even though her products aren't available for purchase yet.
But not everyone is buying into the buzz. Martha Stewart, who has built an empire with decades of hard work, isn't exactly thrilled with the comparisons.
Martha Stewart tired 'being quizzed' over Meghan Markle's new venture
"Martha has seen hundreds of Meghan types come and go — and says they all come in with the same self-inflated hype, only to find out it’s a whole new ball game when it comes down to brass tacks," a source shared.
For Martha Stewart, it seems the Duchess of Sussex still has a lot to prove.
"She’s tired of being quizzed by people over how she feels about Meghan’s venture because, honestly, it’s irritating and insulting to her that she’s being compared to a rookie," the source added.
The insider continued, "If Meghan thinks she can come along and replicate that with barely any experience simply because she’s married to a prince, she better think again."
As per OK Magazine, with American Riviera Orchard, Meghan is entering a crowded field dominated by the likes of Martha Stewart, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Ina Garten.
"From what I understand, I think Meghan will take on Martha Stewart, Gwyneth Paltrow and Ina Garten and play them at their own game," another source revealed.
The key, according to industry insiders, will be authenticity. "She would have to be relatable and natural, the way Drew Barrymore is, it can’t feel contrived or like she’s acting."
According to the website, Meghan Markle founded American Riviera Orchard, a lifestyle brand in 2024.
The brand focuses on a range of products, including gourmet food items such as jams and spreads, as well as home and lifestyle goods. The brand is yet to hit the retail shelves.
The name American Riviera is a nod to the Santa Barbara area, where Meghan resides, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant food culture.
On the other hand, Even though Martha Stewart no longer owns her eponymous brand, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (MSLO), she founded MSLO in 1997 after purchasing Time Inc's shares of Martha Stewart Enterprises.
Now acquired by Marquee Brands, it was the first multi-channel lifestyle company, focusing on publishing, broadcasting, and merchandising.
Meghan Markle makes Instagram return to promote her brand
Meghan Markle's return to Instagram in March to promote American Riviera Orchard garnered a lot of attention, but with products still in the pipeline, her plans hinge on more than just social media buzz.
Reportedly, Meghan Markle's return to Instagram signifies a major change from her earlier decision to deactivate all her social media accounts in 2017 when she became engaged to Prince Harry.
The Duchess of Sussex is happy with the social media following her brand has garnered.
“The rollout for American Riviera Orchard is already off to a strong start. The website has over 100,000 who have signed up to hear about the first products launched,” said an insider.
“Meghan is very pleased with the early interest it has gained.”
As for Markle, she’s eager to see her vision come to life: “[She] is so excited to see how people enjoy her products and use them in their everyday lives,” the source added.
