Exclusive Interview: Luxury LA Lifestyle Brand Owner Reveals Inspiration Behind Meghan’s New Line – A Must-Read for Montecito Residents!

Meghan Markle is set to launch her new lifestyle series on Netflix soon. One person who might be watching closely is Richard Christiansen, the well-known lifestyle expert in Los Angeles who has been linked to Meghan’s inspirations.

Since moving to California in 2020, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have shown their fondness for Christiansen’s Flamingo Estate, often showcasing its stylish coffee-table books in their home in Montecito. It’s easy to see the appeal.

Richard Christiansen has carved out a niche selling upscale lifestyle products—everything from gourmet food to bespoke toiletries. His success has made him a favorite among California’s elite, and it seems Meghan has taken note.

Last year, she launched her own lifestyle brand, originally called American Riviera Orchard. To kick it off, she sent quirky, limited-edition jars of strawberry jam to her celebrity friends, leading some to think she was following Christiansen’s lead.

Meghan’s upcoming brand will likely include a wide range of home and kitchen goods, based on a trademark application that hints at soaps, lotions, napkin rings, jams, and nut spreads. In comparison, Christiansen gained fame for products like organic celery and luxury honey, which can sell for $250 a jar. It’s no wonder his business attracts high-profile clients, including Kim Kardashian and LeBron James.

Flamingo Estate also offers subscriptions for seasonal flower deliveries at $125 per week, showcasing Christiansen’s focus on creating a unique lifestyle experience. Even the Dalai Lama has endorsed one of his products, highlighting the brand’s connection to wellness and community.

However, not everyone is on board with Flamingo Estate’s extravagant offerings. Some critics consider it overly pretentious, designed for those with deep pockets and questionable taste.

Before launching her brand, Meghan reportedly explored a partnership with Christiansen. Sources say they had several meetings where she expressed interest in being actively involved. But no deal materialized, as Christiansen ultimately decided to avoid that direction for his brand.

As of now, Meghan’s products have yet to hit the market, though rumors are that they will be available soon, labeled under the new name “As Ever” after trademark issues stalled the original launch.

Christiansen, now 47, transitioned from advertising to lifestyle branding by purchasing a rundown estate in Los Angeles in 2014. His success with Flamingo Estate began when he adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by helping local farmers sell their produce. What started as delivering colorful boxes filled with fresh fruits and vegetables quickly attracted attention from celebrities.

Christiansen’s good fortune seems to be partly due to his authenticity; he personally connected with his customers, which led to a rapid rise in popularity. Celebrities spread the word, and soon Flamingo Estate became a household name.

Now, Christiansen is celebrating the release of his new book, “The Guide To Becoming Alive,” which blends memoir with motivational content. In it, he shares stories and advice from his famous friends, including influential figures like Martha Stewart and Jane Goodall.

As Meghan prepares to unveil her new series and brand, Christiansen remains excited about the rising competition in the lifestyle space. He welcomes new ideas and acknowledges the inspiration he’s drawn from others, emphasizing that there’s room for everyone in this flourishing market.

Ultimately, the paths of Christiansen and Markle may intersect in unexpected ways. For now, all eyes are on their respective journeys in the world of luxury lifestyles.