What's Happening?
Meghan Markle's lifestyle brand, As ever, has been included in Oprah Winfrey's annual 'Favorite Things' list for the second year in a row. This year, Oprah selected As ever's Signature Basket, priced at $250, which features a collection of the brand's
products including fruit spreads, herbal teas, chocolates, flower sprinkles, and a candle. The candle, named No. 519, is inspired by Meghan's wedding date to Prince Harry. As ever, which rebranded from American Riviera Orchard, has expanded its offerings beyond its initial fruit spreads to include various food, beverage, and home products. The brand's 2026 holiday collection also includes an advent calendar and its first dog toy.
Why It's Important?
Oprah Winfrey's endorsement provides significant visibility and credibility for Meghan Markle's As ever brand, especially within the competitive lifestyle market. Being featured on 'Oprah's Favorite Things' can lead to a substantial increase in sales and brand recognition, leveraging Oprah's influential platform and loyal audience. This repeated endorsement signals a strong vote of confidence in the brand's quality and appeal. For As ever, this exposure is crucial for establishing its presence and expanding its customer base, particularly as it diversifies its product line. The inclusion also highlights the growing trend of celebrity-backed lifestyle brands entering the premium gift market.
What's Next?
Following its inclusion in Oprah's 'Favorite Things' list, As ever can expect a surge in demand for its Signature Basket and other holiday offerings. The brand will likely capitalize on this endorsement in its marketing and promotional activities, emphasizing the 'Oprah-approved' status. This increased visibility could also pave the way for further product expansion and potential collaborations. As the brand continues to grow, it may explore broader retail partnerships or direct-to-consumer strategies to reach a wider audience, building on the momentum generated by this high-profile recognition.
Beyond the Headlines
The continued success of Meghan Markle's As ever brand, bolstered by Oprah Winfrey's repeated endorsement, underscores the powerful synergy between celebrity influence and consumer purchasing behavior. This trend reflects a broader shift in the lifestyle market, where consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that offer a personal connection or are associated with aspirational figures. The brand's expansion into diverse product categories, from gourmet food items to home goods and pet accessories, indicates a strategic effort to create a comprehensive lifestyle ecosystem. This approach taps into the desire for curated, high-quality products that reflect a certain aesthetic and values, often associated with the celebrity founder's public persona.
