Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, recently shared her go-to hosting secrets during a charming event at Godmothers Bookstore in California. Joining her was Courtney Adamo, an author and Meghan's longtime friend and sorority sister from their Northwestern University days. Together, they engaged in a warm and intimate discussion, which was livestreamed for fans and followers.
During the event, Meghan let slip her secret to making guests feel instantly comfortable at her Montecito home. The trick? She opens the door barefoot, wearing an apron. "It demystifies," Meghan explained. "People walk in and go, ‘Oh, she’s in this with me.’ And what are they drawn to? Your kitchen. They come right in, and suddenly everyone’s a little bit softened."
“I love people being able to serve themselves, and having things on the stove that everyone can help themselves to," Meghan shared, adding, "I always have music on in the background.”
The event, titled "Compare Notes on Creating a Home That’s Filled With Joy," was held at the Summerland bookstore, Godmothers, and moderated by Victoria Jackson, one of the store's co-founders. This gathering was not only about sharing hosting tips but also celebrated Adamo’s new book, "The Family Home."
Meghan and Courtney's friendship dates back to their freshman year at Northwestern University. They reminisced about their youthful adventures, including backpacking through France and savoring crepes. Now as mothers, Meghan and Courtney shared parenting anecdotes and discussed the values they aim to instill in their children.
Throughout the livestream, the duo delved into topics like creativity, motherhood, and the value of letting children experience boredom to spark their imagination. Meghan emphasized the joy of "deep belly laughing with your friends" over the simplicity of sending a "laughing emoji."
As a special touch, Meghan provided guests with bottles of her As ever wine after the event. The bookstore itself has a special connection to the royal couple. Its name, Godmothers, was inspired by Prince Harry’s book party for "Spare," where he thanked Oprah Winfrey, Jennifer Rudolph Walsh, and Victoria Jackson as his "fairy godmothers." Oprah later suggested the name for the bookstore.
Meghan and Harry showed their support by attending the bookstore’s opening events back in September 2024, solidifying their bond with this charming literary haven.