The Duchess of Sussex has revealed how advice from Oprah Winfrey helped shape her lifestyle brand, As Ever, which launched successfully earlier this month.
Speaking on her podcast "Confessions of a Female Founder", Meghan Markle shared that the media mogul's guidance was instrumental in expanding her vision beyond small-scale jam production.
Meghan described Winfrey as a "friend and mentor" whose words marked a turning point in her business journey.
The conversation was disclosed just a day after Meghan's appearance on Jamie Kern Lima's podcast, where she discussed her morning routine and future plans for As Ever.
Harry and Meghan were interviewed by Oprah Winfrey in 2021Harpo ProductionsMeghan revealed that her initial ambitions were modest, focused solely on her homemade preserves.
"In the beginning, I just liked making jam," she said. "All I liked to do was just make jam and preserves."
Her plan had been to obtain a cottage license in California and sell at local farmers' markets.
However, she admitted to self-doubt holding her back: "I was in so much fear of failure or opinion that I wasn't thinking big enough at first."
Oprah Winfrey calls Meghan Markle her 'neighbour friend' after Duchess sends her a £53 giftGettyWinfrey's advice proved transformative. Meghan recalled Oprah telling her: "There are tons of things you could put your name on. But for you and how you like to show up for people, once you figure out how to encapsulate your essence, then you'll know."
The Duchess's expanded vision paid off when As Ever launched in early April, with products selling out almost immediately.
The limited edition wildflower honey disappeared in just five minutes, while other items, including raspberry spread, crepe mix and three varieties of tea, were quickly snapped up.
These products featured prominently in Meghan's Netflix series, "With Love, Meghan", which aired this spring.
Meghan Markle launched the first episode of her new podcast called 'Confessions of a Female Founder' this month
InstagramThe jam and flower sprinkles showcased in the programme have become signature offerings of the brand.
Meghan's decision to follow Winfrey's advice and "think bigger" appears to have resonated with consumers, who have enthusiastically embraced her lifestyle products.
Looking ahead, Meghan has indicated that As Ever has significant expansion plans in the pipeline.
"There's so much in development," she told Kern Lima on her podcast.
Meghan Markle unveiled her As Ever productsAs EverThe Duchess explained that her brand is evolving beyond its origins: "It started with what I was making on my stove—sweet offerings—and then extended into what you pair that with."
She hinted that hostess gifts and hospitality items will be a major focus for upcoming launches.
"It's all about small gestures and thoughtful details," Meghan said.
Fans can expect limited-edition "jam drops" in different flavours to be released soon, continuing the brand's focus on preserves that first inspired her business journey.
