Meghan Markle's Festive Launch Raises Eyebrows
The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has ignited a fresh wave of online discussion with the promotional campaign for her lifestyle brand, As Ever. The focus of the debate is a new Christmas gift set, which eagle-eyed observers have noted contains a subtle link to her sister-in-law, the Princess of Wales.
The set, which is exclusively available at the upmarket Montecito bookshop Godmothers, owned by Meghan's friends Victoria Jackson and Jennifer Rudolph Walsh, includes two jars of honey and a distinctive black leather bookmark.
The Bookmark and The Book Connection
In promotional images shared on Instagram, the bookmark is featured prominently inside a copy of the bestselling book The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy. Meghan's own signature calligraphy is also visible in the posts. The bookmark marks a page containing the quote: "Always remember you matter, you're important and you are loved and you bring to this world things no one else can."
This choice of book quickly drew attention because of its established connection to Kate Middleton. Last year, the Princess of Wales commissioned the author and illustrator, Charlie Mackesy, to create bespoke illustrations for the order of service at her Christmas Carol Concert at Westminster Abbey. This event was notably hosted by Kate following her cancer treatment.
At the time, Mackesy expressed his honour, stating: "Love, empathy and kindness are important messages for us all. As the theme of The Princess of Wales' Carol Service this year, it was very special to have been asked to create the illustration for the Order of Service. I hope it reminds us of the beauty of being there for each other at Christmas."
Mixed Reactions and a Busy Week for the Duchess
The connection did not go unnoticed on social media platform X. One user commented, "It is no coincidence that Meghan Markle chose to use this image of Charlie Mackesy's book... This is the same author that Princess Catherine worked with just last year." Another added, "Of all the books in the entire world, she has to use this book. Truly unbelievable."
However, others were quick to defend the Duchess, pointing out that Mackesy's book is a global phenomenon. One supporter argued, "Charles Mackesy’s book is a highly successful best seller. 10 million people own a copy... Meghan owning a copy has nothing whatsoever to do with Kate."
This brand promotion comes ahead of a significant week for Meghan. The holiday special of her Netflix show, *With Love, Meghan*, is set to premiere on Wednesday, December 3. In a recently released trailer, Prince Harry makes a cameo appearance, sharing a kiss with Meghan in a kitchen scene. The show, which offers hosting and cooking tips, has faced criticism since its initial release in March.
The timing of the special is notable as it coincides with a state visit by the President of Germany, which will involve most senior members of the Royal Family. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex secured a lucrative Netflix contract, thought to be worth more than $100 million (£74 million), after stepping back from royal duties. They announced a new multi-year deal with the streaming giant in August.
The new festive range for As Ever is available online and includes items like a spiced cider mulling spice kit for $16 (£12) and a three-pack of spreads in a gift box for $42 (£32).
