Meghan Markle is reportedly “in tears” over the “unfair criticism” of her new lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard.

The Duchess of Sus𝓈ℯ𝓍 announced her new business venture in March, and initially teased fans with vague details about her brand. In a cryptic video that was artfully shot at her and Prince Harry ’s mansion in Montecito, the Duchess of Sus𝓈ℯ𝓍 could be seen cooking in the kitchen, as well as walking around the lavish grounds of their family home. Details of what Meghan would be selling soon emerged, and as well as kitchen and homeware, the mother-of-two was planning on launching her own line of oils, nut butters, jams, and preserves, as well as home fragrances and furnishings.

Fuss over the Duchess’ new brand soon died down, and after no more details were given by Meghan about when American Riviera Orchard would eventually go live, she was forced to prepare for a huge PR drive to improve her image before the launch. However, royal expert and author Tom Quinn believes that Meghan would have been devastated following the lacklustre reception to American Riviera Orchard, especially after the criticism she received over her new jam.

Meghan released a collection of jams as the first product from her new brand

“The one fly in the ointment is Meghan’s new internet brand, America Riviera Orchard. Meghan was in tears when the brand launched and her new jam was widely mocked for being expensive and nothing special,” he explained. “She has reached the point now where she thinks that anything and everything she does will be unfairly criticised. Like her husband, she feels that people are unfairly picking on her – she cannot understand why people don’t admire her work.”

He claimed Meghan wasn’t prepared for any possible criticism she might face once American Riviera Orchard goes live later this year. “She is especially sensitive about any criticism of her luxurious lifestyle in the US – from her point of view this is something to be admired not criticised,” Tom added.

Meghan has been warned to expect criticism of her new venture ( Image: AFP via Getty Images)

The Duchess of Sus𝓈ℯ𝓍 is reportedly planning on a PR blitz in the run up to American Riviera Orchard going live, and will attempt to win over new followers for the brand as she makes a string of appearances on chat shows and podcasts as well as giving interviews to “specially selected” journalists. The 42-year-old is said to be desperate to improve her image, both in the US and the UK, and wants to “drive online sales” when her brand goes live, according to the Daily Express.