A guest who claims to have attended Meghan Markle’s recent Australia retreat is pushing back on viral claims that the event was plagued by low turnout and heckling.

Speaking out after days of speculation, the attendee described a far different atmosphere, insisting the gathering was well-received and far more intimate than critics suggested. The retreat formed part of Markle and Prince Harry’s four-day Australia tour, which included a series of charity-focused appearances.

While reports painted a messy scene, guests were said to leave with curated gift packs that included products from Markle’s lifestyle brand, As Ever.

The Attendee Described Meghan Markle’s Retreat As ‘Amazing’

Markle’s Sydney retreat has been hit by a wave of negative claims in the days since it wrapped, with reports of low turnout, alleged heckling, and even attendees requesting refunds.

But one alleged guest is now pushing back, publicly and in detail.

Posting on X under the username @KerryLy4, the attendee shared a lengthy account disputing those reports, describing the event as “AMAZING” and far from the chaotic scene some critics have painted. She said the retreat brought together women of different “shapes, ages, and colors,” emphasizing what she portrayed as a diverse and engaged crowd.

The attendee also firmly rejected claims of disruption, stating there was “no heckling, booing, or interruption during Meghan’s conversation, or at any other point in the evening.”

Meghan Markle Reportedly Received A Standing Ovation

Markle was also met with an overwhelmingly warm reception, according to the same attendee.

While the exact timing of her arrival remains unclear, the guest insisted the Duchess was not late and said she “received a very loud standing ovation” as she stepped on stage. A similar response followed at the end of her talk.

Prince Harry was also said to have drawn cheers, with the attendee describing a “very warm welcome” from the crowd. She noted that he remained close by, helping Markle on and off the stage.

The interaction reportedly didn’t end when the event wrapped. According to the guest, Meghan stayed behind to speak with attendees individually, addressing many by name. She was described as a “very special person,” “very kind,” and “intelligent,” with a presence that “radiates warmth.”

The Guest Slammed The Media For Twisting The Narrative About The Retreat

The alleged guest didn’t stop at defending the event; she also took direct aim at critics and media coverage surrounding Markle’s retreat.

In her post, she labeled the portrayal of the event as “disgraceful,” accusing detractors of distorting what she says was a positive and well-run experience. She then closed her post with a pointed message aimed at those pushing a different narrative.

“I know the truth about this retreat. I lived it. Yet they outright lie about it for clicks and to spin the hate cycle,” the attendee said. “They lie about this, a women’s wellness retreat, then they will lie about anything and everything.”

Retreat Guests Were Reportedly Given Gifts To Take Home

While the attendees’ accounts focused on the atmosphere inside the event, other reports have shed light on what guests took away from Markle’s retreat.

According to PEOPLE Magazine, attendees received curated gift bags featuring a mix of lifestyle items, including flower sprinkles and a “Hold That Thought” leather bookmark from Meghan’s As Ever brand. The package also reportedly included Quick Flick lip balm, a Hunter candle, a Love Tea gift box set, and Funday sweets.

The gift bag was said to be valued at around $200, a relatively modest amount compared to the thousands of dollars guests are believed to have paid to attend the retreat.

Meghan Markle Opened Up About Suffering Attacks For Years

Markle also used the retreat to reflect on her personal journey. She looked back on her years navigating intense media scrutiny following her marriage to Prince Harry and their decision to step back as working royals in 2020.

Speaking candidly, the mother of two said she has endured “attacks” for more than a decade, describing the experience as “very hard.”

Amid that pressure, Meghan said she has found grounding in her children, crediting them with giving her renewed patience and perspective as she continues to navigate life in the spotlight.