Meghan Markle’s $148 holiday advent calendar is facing a much cheaper royal rival from Buckingham Palace’s official shop. The Duchess of Sussex launched her limited-edition As Ever version with 24 handcrafted chocolates and a keepsake design.
Meanwhile, the Royal Collection Trust listed its chocolate calendar for just £12, or about $15.85. That created a gap exceeding $130. Both products offer 24 festive treats, but their packaging, flavors, and target markets differ sharply.
Buckingham Palace’s Advent Calendar is at least $130 cheaper than Meghan Markle’s As Ever alternative
The price difference was substantial. The Royal Festive Chocolate Advent Calendar retailed for £12 through the Royal Collection Trust Shop. The official description promised “24 days of delicious milk chocolate behind each charming door.”
Meanwhile, the design showcased Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The 95-gram calendar was also made in Britain using recyclable cardboard. Additionally, the royal shop offered worldwide delivery, with international shipping charges varying by destination.
By comparison, Meghan Markle’s As Ever version was listed at $148 and available for US shipping only. The brand called it “a magical celebration of the season.” It was created with Los Angeles chocolatier Compartés and contained 24 handcrafted chocolates. Moreover, the keepsake box drew inspiration from Meghan’s Montecito home and garden.
Flavors included strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, and orange marmalade spreads. One chocolate featured her Flower Sprinkles, while another used Compartés dark chocolate ganache truffle. Each piece also carried a countdown number in Meghan’s “personal penmanship,” painted with edible gold luster.
However, the two advent calendars were positioned very differently. Buckingham Palace’s option focused on simple milk chocolate and recognizable royal landmarks. Meanwhile, As Ever emphasized handcrafted flavors, premium presentation, and a reusable keepsake format.
Meghan’s calendar measured 15 inches wide and weighed roughly 12 ounces boxed. The royal version measured 28 centimeters tall and contained 95 grams of chocolate. Yet the headline comparison remained striking. Closer calculated Buckingham Palace’s offering at more than $130 less than Meghan’s alternative.
This story originally appeared on Realitytea
