Meghan Markle has given followers a rare, casual glimpse behind the scenes while preparing her latest holiday project. The Duchess of Sussex appeared completely makeup-free in footage shared on October 1, looking noticeably relaxed as she worked on a new festive release for her lifestyle brand, As Ever.
The short clip showed Meghan riding in a golf cart alongside chocolatier Jonathan Grahm. Dressed down in a baseball cap and sweatshirt, she smiled for the camera without her usual polished beauty look, offering a striking contrast to the glamorous promotional images fans are accustomed to seeing.
There was another surprise hidden in the footage: it was actually filmed months earlier. Meghan captioned the moment “Christmas planning in June,” revealing just how far in advance preparations for the holiday launch had begun.
The mystery project has now been unveiled as the first As Ever x Compartés Advent calendar. Inside are 24 handcrafted chocolates featuring flavors inspired by Meghan’s products and surroundings, including raspberry, strawberry, blackberry and orange marmalade-inspired creations.
The calendar also includes several highly personal touches. Each chocolate carries a countdown number based on Meghan’s own handwriting, while the packaging takes inspiration from the California home and garden that have become closely associated with the visual identity of her brand.
Priced at $148 and scheduled to begin shipping in November, the limited-edition release marks another expansion for As Ever. The brand, initially known largely for its fruit preserves, has gradually moved into a wider selection of pantry, gifting, wine and home products.
But it was Meghan’s appearance during the early planning stages that provided one of the most candid moments of the launch. Far removed from formal engagements and carefully styled appearances, the fresh-faced Duchess offered followers an unusually relaxed look at herself while working behind the scenes.
