Richard “Maureen” Eden’s latest diary column once again couldn’t resist dragging Harry and Meghan into the mix. This time via their one-time baker, Claire Ptak of Violet Cakes. According to Eden, the bakery is struggling under financial pressures and has asked for public help to stay afloat. Cue Eden’s barely concealed glee, as if the Sussexes’ lemon elderflower cake were somehow responsible for Britain’s economic woes.
We know Eden’s not worried about business rates. He’s worried about optics. Because while Violet Cakes may be facing challenges (like every small business in Britain right now), it’s still got something the royals wish they had – buzz. Ever since Meghan and Harry’s wedding cake. Beloved by foodies, fans, and anyone who’s ever tasted joy in sponge form.
Look, I get why he’s desperate to show a Sussex-linked brand in trouble, what with the multiple graves in Kate Middleton’s brand graveyard. It’s a running joke: if Kate’s linked to it, check the expiry date. But Eden’s timing is curious. Violet Cakes hasn’t closed. So there’s a danger he’s gloated too soon. Premature articulation, if you will.
“Incoming too soon” isn’t Eden’s only embarrassing trait. Remember his alleged use of a burner account under the name “Maureen Eyers” to post anti-Meghan comments online?
It’s worth noting – always – that Eden’s employer, Associated Newspapers, owner of the Fail, is currently in court over unlawful information gathering. So while Maureen’s busy stirring buttercream drama, his bosses are trying to dodge accountability for allegedly bugging phones and hiring shady investigators. The press is under pressure, and Eden’s column reads like a distraction. “Look over here! A bakery’s struggling! Blame Meghan!”
But the public’s not as thick as the Mail treats us. We know when a columnist’s got a vendetta and a deadline.
Anyhoo – if you’re in London and fancy a treat, pop down to Dalston. Buy a cupcake. Support a small business. Or, if With Love, Meghan has given you the baking bug, buy one of their cookbooks, though for a signed copy you’ll need to visit their bakery-café.
And raise a fork to the Sussexes, who keep thriving no matter how many stale crumbs the press throws.