Meghan Reunites with College Friend Courtney Adamo for an Intimate Conversation at Godmothers Bookstore (UPDATED 10/28)

Scroll for updates 10/28/25

The Duchess of Sussex spent Wednesday evening at Godmothers Bookstore in Summerland, California, joining author and lifestyle creator Courtney Adamo for a warm and candid live conversation — and a reunion more than two decades in the making.

The event, which was streamed live on Substack, was titled “Compare Notes on Creating a Home That’s Filled With Joy” and celebrated Adamo’s new book, The Family Home. The discussion offered an intimate glimpse into Meghan’s approach to entertaining, motherhood, and friendship — all through the lens of authenticity and connection.

Meghan and Courtney’s friendship began during their freshman year at Northwestern University, where they became sorority sisters and fast friends. During the event, Meghan reminisced about their college days, sharing a fond memory of “backpacking through France on spring break,” complete with crepes and carefree laughter.

Their bond, which started in those early years, has clearly stood the test of time — grounded in shared values of family, creativity, and intentional living.

Meghan shared her simple secret for putting guests at ease when entertaining at her Montecito home: bare feet and an apron.

It demystifies,” she 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.”

Rather than serving tea, Meghan said she prefers to have something cozy simmering on the stove — like a hot toddy or cider — so guests can serve themselves while music plays softly in the background. It’s a scene that perfectly captures her philosophy of warmth, hospitality, and grounded elegance.

Moderated by Godmothers co-founder Victoria Jackson, the discussion touched on parenting, creativity, and the balance between structure and spontaneity in family life. Meghan and Courtney, both mothers, spoke about “the value of boredom” for fostering imagination, and the importance of genuine laughter — or as Meghan described it, “deep belly laughing with your friends” instead of just sending a “laughing emoji.”

The evening also reflected a philosophy Meghan has spoken about before — the “Rose & Thorn” practice. It’s a simple ritual of sharing the highlight (the rose) and the challenge (the thorn) of one’s day — a way to encourage openness, gratitude, and reflection.

During the conversation, an audience member added another layer to the idea — the “bud” — representing something new you learned or are looking forward to. Meghan smiled at the mention, embracing the addition as a lovely way to continue growing, both personally and within family life.

In true Meghan fashion, guests were treated to bottles of her As Ever wine following the event.

A look at what Meghan wore for tonight’s event.

UPDATE 10/24: Cuyana reached out to me and confirmed that Meghan is wearing all pieces from their collection.

Cuyana Silk Tank, $148 / Cuyana Wool Wide Leg Pant, $368

NOTE: Meghan was not wearing a belt at all for the event, but I’ve been told that she does own the belt — Cuyana Celestia Belt, $228.

UPDATE 10/24: We have more photos of Meghan this afternoon from the event. She is wearing the Emme Parsons ‘Loop’ sandals in black nappa, $615 (Use code WHATMEGHANWORE10 for 10% off orders of $250+ valid first time customers only through 11/8/25). More sizes available here.

I believe she may have worn these in With Love, Meghan, season 2 episode 7.

UPDATE 10/24: Meghan carried the Aquazzura ‘Bow Tie’ clutch in ‘Espresso’, $2,334.

Meghan had on her Cartier ‘Love’ bracelet and her pear shaped diamond ring we’ve seen so much of recently.

I was trying to get a closer look at Meghan’s earrings during the event. At first, I thought they might be her Guzema flat disc studs, which she’s worn recently. However, on closer inspection, I believe these are another familiar pair — round gold studs featuring a delicate diamond detail across the center that were never identified.

Courtney Adamo shared some additional photos on Instagram—

Speaking of As Ever…

Earlier today, Meghan’s lifestyle brand As Ever shared a new Reel on Instagram teasing, “Save the Date — October 28, 2025.”

UPDATE 10/24: In a new teaser posted to As Ever on Friday it looks like we are getting champagne!

In the clip, Meghan wore a black sleeveless midi dress, white cardigan and boots.

The black dress features a v-neck and appears to be belted at the waist. I will update the post if we’re able to identify the dress.

UPDATE 10/28: The dress is definitely not from La Ligne.
One suggestion is the La Ligne ‘Gabrielle’ dress in black, $325. It does have “fixed” ties on the front of it, but perhaps these can be adjusted or removed. La Ligne doesn’t think it’s their dress, but it’s a nice option.

UPDATE 10/24: Meghan’s cardigan is indeed from Brochu Walker — however it is the Asher Cardigan in Ivory, $448. It is a soft and lightweight cotton wool blend.

The wider ribbed detail on the cuffs is what we were looking for.

Initially we thought it might be the the Brochu Walker style below—It was certainly the right brand!

Her cardigan may be from Brochu Walker ‘The Cropped Cardigan’ in Salt White, $368. This is also another great choice to get the look in a lighter weight.

UPDATE 10/28: Meghan wore her Le Chameau ‘Jameson’ boots (no longer available).

Her necklace is the Cartier ‘Juste Un Clou Torque’, small model, diamonds, $18,700.

She also had on another pendant necklace but I couldn’t see any details in order to identify it.