Sarah Ferguson: A Domestic Diva?

LONDON (CBS) Can Sarah Ferguson become a frugal and royal version of Martha Stewart, telling American s how to live like a queen on less?

Sources say the duchess had been planning for a while to challenge the American domestic diva, but her recent troubles have given her a good hook: Economic ways to live like royalty.

Beset by money woes, Ferguson recently was caught on video offering access to her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, for some serious cash. The published video shows "Fergie" seeking more than $700,000 - with a $40,000 down payment - from an undercover reporter playing a "rich businessman" from Britain's News of the World.

Ferguson could show the U.S. public how to live well for little money using all the tricks and tips she as picked up over the years. Two U.S. networks have shown interest in the format, but she is adamant that she would do nothing without the blessing of Prince Andrew.

Although she may have embarrassed the British royal family, she remains on good terms with her ex-husband. Both are planning their summer break together and Andrew has said he sees her inclusion as "vital " to putting some normality into family life for their two daughters.

They are the parents of Princess Beatrice, 21, and Princess Eugenie, 20. The two princesses were in the news recently because their security protection is being scaled back as part of a royal economy plan.

Ferguson told a source, "I agree in principle, but why on earth announce it ... it could cause all types of issues."

A royal source told me," It's simple. They are looking at increasing the royal budget from David Cameron, the U.K. prime minister and his team and yet they cannot go cap in hand to him knowing that minor royals like the princesses cost so much to the U.K. taxpayer."

I can reveal that while their security detail will be scaled down, the reductions will not be as drastic as first thought. Prince Andrew is so keen to keep the protection of his daughters, he is willing to pick up part of the tab himself.