Meghan Markle is in “in tears” over the “unfair criticism” of her new lifestyle brand (Image: GETTY)
Meghan Markle is “in tears” over the “unfair criticism” of her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, it has been claimed.

The Duchess of Sussex unveiled her latest business venture in March, initially intriguing fans with scant details about the brand. In a tantalising video filmed at her and Prince Harry’s Montecito mansion, Meghan was seen cooking in the kitchen and strolling around their opulent family home grounds.

It soon became clear that Meghan would be selling a range of items including kitchenware, homeware, oils, nut butter, jams, preserves, home fragrances and furnishings.

However, the initial excitement surrounding the Duchess’ new brand quickly faded, and with no further information provided by Meghan about when American Riviera Orchard would officially launch, she found herself gearing up for a significant PR push to boost her image ahead of the launch. Royal expert and author Tom Quinn suggests that Meghan would have been deeply upset by the lukewarm response to American Riviera Orchard, particularly in light of the criticism she faced over her new jam.

He told the Daily Mirror: “The one fly in the ointment is Meghan’s new internet brand, America Riviera Orchard. Meghan was in tears when the brand launched and her new jam was widely mocked for being expensive and nothing special,” he explained.

“She has reached the point now where she thinks that anything and everything she does will be unfairly criticised. Like her husband, she feels that people are unfairly picking on her – she cannot understand why people don’t admire her work.”

He claimed Meghan wasn’t prepared for any possible criticism she might face once American Riviera Orchard goes live later this year. “She is especially sensitive about any criticism of her luxurious lifestyle in the US from her point of view this is something to be admired not criticised,” Tom added.