I’ve attempted roughly 14 snappy introductions for this post. They’ve all been garbage.

This isn’t surprising. At this point, Meghan Markle needs no introduction. Every public appearance she makes is in the news. Every facial expression and hand gesture is scrutinized. Every outfit she wears is analyzed. You know who she is.

You know that she’s the new wife to the UK’s Prince Harry. You know that by being American, biracial, and divorced she’s breaking all kinds of royal barriers.

But, what you may not know, the barrier she’s broken that’s often glossed over, is this:

Unlike others who have married into the royal family, Meghan Markle is a self-made woman.

Before Harry, before her father had every British tabloid on speed dial, Meghan was no damsel in distress. Between acting on Suits and in films, brand partnerships, and her lifestyle website The Tig, Meghan’s net worth was $5 million dollars.