**Oprah Winfrey Highlights Meghan Markle’s As Ever Brand in Annual Gift Guide**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Meghan-Markle-Oprah-Winfrey-111226-tout-7e43420fe98f4effa0b2f95b7dcdbc6e.jpg)
Oprah Winfrey has once again showcased Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand, As Ever, in her highly anticipated annual Favourite Things list. The 2026 edition, revealed on 12 November, features a $250 Signature Basket that includes a selection of gourmet treats and a candle inspired by the Duchess of Sussex.
This year marks the second consecutive occasion that an As Ever product has garnered attention in Oprah’s holiday gift guide. The media mogul, known for her influential taste, praised the beautifully crafted picnic hamper, which aims to bring joy and deliciousness to its recipients. According to Oprah Daily, the basket contains fruit spreads, assorted chocolates, herbal teas, and a signature candle, all meticulously curated by Markle.
As Ever celebrated this prestigious recognition, they took to social media to share their excitement. The brand announced, “The Signature Basket is on @oprahdaily Oprah’s Favourite Things! 🎁 Filled with As Ever favourites, it’s part of our limited-edition Gift Basket Collection, thoughtfully curated for the season of giving.” The post also mentioned that there is a basket suited for every occasion, featuring sweet treats and essentials for hosting guests during the festive season.
Within the basket, customers can find treats such as As Ever’s signature fruit spreads, flavourful herbal teas, and unique flower sprinkles. Additionally, the As Ever x Compartés botanical chocolate bar trio adds a touch of refinement, ensuring that the hamper caters to a variety of tastes. Notably, the basket also includes a candle, referenced as No. 519, which serves as a sentimental tribute to the royal wedding of Meghan and Prince Harry, held on 19 May 2018.
The candle’s unique blend of Moroccan mint, white tea, and cardamom aims to evoke the tranquil essence of an English countryside day, reminiscent of Meghan and Harry’s wedding celebrations. The description aptly notes, “Love at first light. No. 519 is the feeling of warm sunshine and blue skies, surrounded by love and laughter,” capturing the emotional connection tied to its inception.
As Ever’s 2026 holiday collection is marked by a charming advent calendar reflective of Markle’s Montecito home and an innovative dog toy, which has reportedly received approval from the couple’s pet, Pula. In last year’s holiday gift guide, Markle’s fruit spread gift box was equally celebrated, signalling her growing influence in the world of lifestyle and wellness products.
Meghan Markle, now 45, expressed her gratitude in a brand newsletter, sharing Oprah’s enthusiastic endorsement. She noted, “As Oprah says, ‘Before my neighbour Meghan started her business, she shared her homemade recipes with us. I love to drizzle it on an English muffin or yogurt or ice cream.’” Meghan continued by expressing her elation at being included in such a significant gifting guide, highlighting the heartfelt dedication involved in creating the products.
Oprah Winfrey, 72, shares a long-standing bond with the Sussexes, having attended their royal nuptials in 2018 and visiting them at Nottingham Cottage during their earlier residence in London. Following Meghan and Harry’s transition to California, they became neighbours in Montecito, which has further solidified their friendship.
Their connection gained significant media attention during a revealing interview in March 2021, where Harry and Meghan discussed their experiences within the royal family, shedding light on their decision to step back as working royals. Additionally, in 2021, Harry collaborated with Oprah on the docuseries “The Me You Can’t See,” aiming to address mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding them.
The recent recognition comes at a challenging time for Meghan, as she has been dealing with family distress following the arrest of her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr. Sources close to the Duchess indicate that focusing on her children and meaningful work is helping her navigate this tumultuous period. “She’s trying to focus on her family, her kids, and the work that matters to her,” shared one insider, emphasising the importance of having nurturing pursuits to channel her energy positively.
As the holidays approach, Oprah Winfrey’s endorsement of Meghan Markle’s As Ever brand adds a special touch to the season, extending an invitation for others to experience joy and warmth through the thoughtfully assembled products crafted by the Duchess of Sussex. The collaboration reflects a deep-rooted friendship and mutual support between the two influential figures.
About the Author
