The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has been handed a blunt caution from a leading public relations expert as she prepares to focus on her lifestyle brand and potential new ventures in 2026.
PR Expert's Stark Warning for As Ever
According to reports, Meghan intends to make her lifestyle brand, As Ever, a core focus this year, alongside developing a possible cookbook expected in the spring. However, Renae Smith, founder of PR and branding firm The Atticism, has delivered a pointed 12-word verdict on the brand's current trajectory: "A lifestyle brand without a lifestyle point of view doesn't go far."
Speaking to the Express, Smith warned that if the Duchess continues on her present course, 2026 could feel like "more of the same" with limited long-term growth. She criticised the current approach of sporadic product launches, mixed messaging, and a lack of clear distinction between Meghan's personal, commercial, and charitable work.
The Need for Strategy and Narrative
Smith emphasised that professionalising the As Ever brand is essential. "She needs a clear calendar, consistent storytelling, and a stronger sense of what the brand stands for beyond aesthetic nostalgia," the expert advised. The recommendation is to move away from thinking in isolated moments and instead build a coherent brand narrative with a defined strategy.
On the subject of the rumoured cookbook, Smith suggested it could resonate with Meghan's fanbase if executed correctly. "Draw on her family history, culinary rituals, and cultural influences," she proposed, adding that a project rooted in authentic story could help reposition the Duchess as more grounded. However, she stressed that the execution would need to be flawless, covering tone, visuals, and media strategy.
Potential UK Return Hinges on Security
This professional scrutiny comes amid reports that Meghan may be planning her first trip back to the United Kingdom in four years. It is suggested she could accompany Prince Harry to an Invictus Games event in Birmingham on July 10, provided their security arrangements are approved.
A source told the Sun that security remains "always going to be the deciding factor" for the 44-year-old Duchess's return. The visit would mark her first time on UK soil since attending Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in September 2022. The outcome of a review by Ravec, the committee assessing the Duke of Sussex's request for taxpayer-funded security, is expected imminently and could pave the way for the trip.
As Meghan Markle plots her major career moves for 2026, the consensus from industry observers is clear: success will depend less on high-profile moments and more on developing a structured, authentic, and clearly defined brand identity.
