Meghan Markle is already on her way to doing just that with an entrepreneurial, trailblazing venture. She runs her lifestyle brand, As Ever, with a “small and mighty” team. The Duchess of Sussex emphasized her desire for the brand to go global, embodying “the spirit of sharing” that she holds dear. Though independent, her foundation has been supported by her civic practice of authenticity and deep engagement with communities, driven by her upbringing and family human rights activism.
In a recent episode of the podcast “Aspire With Emma Grede,” Markle opened up about how her brand came to be. She emphasized her deeply creative, hands-on methods that went into it. From packaging design to newsletter copy, she loves sinking her teeth into every detail. It’s this engagement that makes sure her vision is felt throughout every inch of As Ever.
Similar to how Ever recently caused a media frenzy when it restocked its products on June 20 at 8 a.m. PT, the first drop sold out in less than an hour, which was a testament to the brand’s deep cultural relevance and demand among consumers. Markle’s entrepreneurial spirit, which she attributes largely to her mother, Doria, and her grandfather on her mother’s side, is evident in her determination to create a brand that resonates with people.
Markle hinted at the potential evolution of As Ever, suggesting that it may expand “from the kitchen into a much broader space.” This turn of phrase reveals her clear desire to expand the brand’s customer base along with its product range. Markle is deeply convinced of the transformative power of sharing our experiences. She aims to bring happiness into the lives of others with the creative products that she develops.
Markle got personal on social media with a truly charming Instagram post. It featured stacks of pancakes oozing with honey and had as its playful caption, “Oh yeah, honey… sweet stuff coming up.” This laid-back, personal invite is your open door to form connections with casual consumers. It’s a great primer on the earthy, down to earth ethos that drives her brand.
Over the course of the podcast, Markle revealed that her artisanal jam business has become the distraction that’s made her friends’ days. It has really made their happiness! She is devoted to designing products that prioritize form and function. Along the way, she builds emotional ties between consumers and her clients. Her approach, which attunes us to the ways that joy can be found in daily moments, deepens the original intent behind the spirit of As Ever.
Markle told us, “I never think about failing. This point of view summarizes her indefatigable spirit perfectly as she hears “no” and adapts to the trials of a startup entrepreneur. And her eye is very much on the prize, building success and growth instead of looking back at failure.
In addition to her business aspirations, Markle set out to redefine her public narrative and image. She just wanted Americans to be honest and tell her the truth about how they viewed her. This honest confession attests to the fact that she is ill-equipped to endure the public pressure cooker. It speaks to her dedication to her own authenticity, both personally and professionally.
Markle is currently at work developing As Ever. She has spent ten years committed to developing a brand that is true to her beliefs and speaks to her ever-expanding global community of fans. Her commitment to creativity and collaboration within her “small and mighty” team is poised to enhance the brand’s identity and outreach.
