Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has captivated audiences with her return to television in her new Netflix series “With Love, Meghan.” The show, which marks her debut in the lifestyle genre, showcases her endeavors in homemaking and crafts while emphasizing her commitment to maintaining privacy for her family. Although not filmed in her actual residence, the series is delightfully shot in a lavish farmhouse in Montecito. Across eight episodes, Meghan shares insights into her personal world of cooking, gardening, and hosting.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Host: Meghan Markle
Location: Montecito
Series: With Love, Meghan
Despite the setting not being her and Prince Harry’s primary residence, the series offers a glimpse into Meghan’s domestic pursuits while underscoring the couple’s desire for privacy. The chosen farmhouse, owned by philanthropists, offers 4,500 square feet of charming living space complete with expansive gardens. Throughout the show, Meghan repeatedly emphasizes the importance of cherishing intimate family moments away from the public eye. While revealing rich domestic scenes, Meghan admitted to keeping the cameras out of her actual home to safeguard the sanctuary it provides for her children, Archie and Lilibet.
A prominent segment of the series is Meghan’s newfound passion for beekeeping and candle-making. Footage of her donning a beekeeper’s suit, procuring honey, and crafting candles from beeswax adds an intimate dimension to her portrayal. She humorously admits that she never liked honey until she became intertwined with the process, illustrating a classic narrative of character growth. This newfound appreciation for her apiary’s bounty inspired her to create personalized candles infused with essential oils, including a thoughtful creation for a friend to alleviate allergies.
Meghan’s gardening skills also take center stage as she explores sustainable living by cultivating her own produce. Throughout the series, she is often seen harvesting fresh vegetables, walking through lush gardens, and discussing the transformative experience of growing food oneself. These segments highlight an underlying philosophy of connection with nature, shared in conversations with renowned chef Alice Waters, who champions the benefits of nurturing one’s sustenance. Her affinity for gardening extends beyond utility to include moments of blissful family gatherings amidst the verdant surroundings.
Hosting and attention to detail are central themes throughout the series. Meghan reveals that her hosting philosophy revolves around the idea that love lies in the details. This is demonstrated through thoughtful gestures and personal touches, such as lavender towels for guests, custom party bags, and artfully arranged platters. Her penchant for handwritten notes and calligraphy is woven throughout these efforts, providing a personalized touch that is both genuine and welcoming. These thoughtful intricacies extend from hospitality to gifting, underscoring her dedication to creating memorable experiences for her loved ones.
The series also beautifully intertwines family anecdotes, showcasing Meghan’s maternal side alongside her multifaceted lifestyle pursuits. Sweet stories about her children, such as Princess Lilibet’s affinity for creating a cleaning song and Prince Archie’s fishing exploits, provide glimpses into their daily lives. Prince Harry’s brief appearance, toasting Meghan’s success, encapsulates the show’s warmth and personal touch. These elements combine to reveal a multifaceted woman balancing royal duties, familial priorities, and a passion for sustainable living, all while offering audiences a window into a life less ordinary but immensely relatable.
