,type=downsize)
Meghan Markle ’s new business venture has Oprah Winfrey ’s seal of approval. The media mogul showed off the “lovely Christmas basket” she received from her neighbor, the Duchess of Sussex, who resides in Montecito, California. The royal’s gift contained multiple packets of instant latte mix from Clevr Blends, a startup that Meghan recently invested in. “On the first day of Christmas my neighbor “M” sent to me...a basket of deliciousness! (Yes that M👑),” Oprah, 66, captioned a video of herself making one of the drinks. “My new drink of choice for the morning and night. Wish I had @clevrblends sooner cause I would’ve added it to my Favorite Things list. #HappyHolidays.”
Meghan’s personal investment in the female-founded wellness company is her first to be made public, according to Fortune. “This investment is in support of a passionate female entrepreneur who prioritizes building community alongside her business,” Prince Harry ’s wife said in a statement to Fortune. “I’m proud to invest in [CEO Hannah Mendoza] Hannah’s commitment to sourcing ethical ingredients and creating a product that I personally love and [that] has a holistic approach to wellness. I believe in her, and I believe in her company.”
Clevr Blends’ cofounder and CEO Hannah added, “Entrepreneurs need funding, but they also need advisers who care deeply about what they are building. I’m grateful to have found both in the Duchess of Sussex.” She continued, “[Meghan’s] passion for what we’re creating is palpable, and I couldn’t imagine a more aligned partnership. We’re excited for the road ahead.”
Meghan and Harry stepped back as senior members of the royal family earlier this year. With their new revised roles, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have permission to earn their own income and the ability to pursue their own private charitable interests.