In the picturesque enclave of Montecito, California, local business owners are lifting the veil on what they perceive as meticulously staged publicity maneuvers by none other than Meghan Markle.
The former star of “Suits,” who swapped royal duties for a life in the sun, seems to be treating local shops and boutiques as her own personal photo op venues, according to several merchants who prefer to remain anonymous.
One boutique owner, referred to as Sarah for confidentiality, describes a familiar scene that unfolds whenever Markle is set to arrive.
“About 15 minutes before she shows up, we see paparazzi setting up outside,” she shares.
The timing is uncanny, as Meghan strides in looking impeccably styled, despite claims of merely running errands.
Sarah recalls an incident where the Duchess spent nearly an hour trying on sunglasses, frequently checking her reflection, while her security team redirected other customers away from her vicinity.
Interestingly, she left without making a purchase.
Another retailer, who operates a high-end home goods store, echoes Sarah’s sentiments, noting that each of Markle’s visits feels like a well-rehearsed production.
“Her team calls ahead, insisting we clear the store for security reasons,” the merchant explains.
Yet, moments later, photographers are conveniently present to capture her seemingly casual shopping spree.
“It’s pure Hollywood theatrics,” they add with a hint of sarcasm.
The predictability of these encounters has led some local proprietors to establish a group chat to alert one another whenever they receive advance calls from Markle’s team.
“We call it the Markle Sparkle warning system,” jokes a café owner.
This playful banter highlights their need to brace for the media frenzy that often follows the Duchess’s appearances.
Merchants describe a customer more focused on being seen than on actual shopping.
“She spends hours browsing, asking intricate questions about products, all while striking perfect poses,” notes another shop owner.
The irony?
The purchases are few and far between, suggesting that the spectacle takes precedence over genuine shopping.
Timing appears to play a crucial role in Markle’s shopping excursions, often coinciding with negative press cycles or promotional efforts for her various projects.
A long-time Montecito resident in retail remarks, “It’s hard to ignore that these visits happen when they need to grab headlines.”
One notable instance involved her visit to a local organic market, where she arrived accompanied by security and an assistant, only to buy a single lemon and some mint.
The photographers outside, however, captured the moment beautifully, portraying her as earthy and relatable.
This carefully orchestrated image clashes starkly with Markle’s frequent complaints about media scrutiny and her desire for privacy.
“It’s ironic,” comments a local business owner.
“She talks about media harassment, yet we see her team coordinating with photographers in real time.”
As the Sussexes continue to navigate their post-royal lives in California, their struggle to maintain public interest is evident.
With a Netflix deal yielding mixed reviews and a Spotify partnership ending prematurely, some speculate that these staged appearances serve as attempts to stay relevant in the limelight.
Local business owners express frustration over the disruption caused by Markle’s visits.
Regular patrons have begun to feel uneasy with the added security and paparazzi presence, prompting some to avoid shopping during weekends—the Duchess’s preferred shopping time.
“It’s a hassle for us,” explains another merchant.
“We want to provide a pleasant experience for everyone.”
Beyond the logistical challenges, staff members receive explicit instructions on how to engage with Markle.
“We’re told not to make eye contact or initiate conversation, and definitely no photos,” shares a boutique employee.
It’s a stark contrast to how other celebrities interact while shopping in the area.
The timing of Markle’s visits seems calculated, often arriving just before closing time and lingering well past hours.
“We can’t exactly ask the Duchess to leave,” one shop owner notes, highlighting the awkwardness of the situation.
The result?
Staff members are left working late without any overtime compensation.
Frustration within the local business community is palpable.
While Montecito has long been a haven for celebrities who manage to shop discreetly, the Sussexes’ approach stands out for its perceived orchestration.
“We appreciate the exposure,” concludes one store owner, “but it feels unsettling to witness someone manufacturing candid moments while preaching authenticity.”
As Montecito remains the backdrop for Meghan’s meticulously crafted public appearances, local merchants are left questioning whether their roles as unwitting participants in her publicity machine are worth the trouble.
For now, they continue to play their parts, albeit with a growing sense of weariness regarding what they view as Hollywood-style manipulation in their once-quiet community.