Godmothers Bookstore
Godmothers is an independent bookstore and gathering space in Summerland, California, founded in 2024 by Jennifer Rudolph Walsh[1] and Victoria Jackson.[2] The store serves as a literary and cultural hub, hosting author talks, workshops, and community events.[3] Forbes has described it as "undoubtedly America’s prettiest new bookstore," [4] and Vanity Fair noted its connection to high-profile visitors, including Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.[5]
Description
[edit]Named by Oprah Winfrey, the bookstore serves as a space for literature, community events, and creative engagement. It features a dedicated children’s section and a selection of books spanning literature, belles-lettres, memoir, science, nature, mindfulness, art, architecture, fashion, design, and cooking, including limited editions and collectible titles. In addition to books, the store offers sideline items from both local and international makers.[6]
Godmothers hosts a variety of literary and cultural events, including author conversations, artistic workshops, weekly children's storytime sessions, mahjong gatherings, book clubs and community events. Its main-stage discussions, featuring authors and notable guests, are supported by a professional production system.[7] Past speakers have included Nicole Avant, Josh Brolin,[8] Johann Hari, Elise Loehnen, Rob Lowe, Lisa See, Lauren Sánchez, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and Colm Tóibín.
The bookstore also offers the Founders Circle, a program designed to deepen literary and community engagement through curated events and offerings that foster connection.[9]
Town & Country described Godmothers as "a sanctuary for ideas and creativity," [10] while Goop referred to its design as "a sanctuary for the soul." [11] In October 2024, The Los Angeles Times highlighted its cultural role, calling it "a pilgrimage-worthy place that could function like a town square, where everybody’s welcome." The article also noted its three-day opening weekend, which featured guests including Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Portia de Rossi, Maria Shriver, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and described its "subtle glamorous rusticity" designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard.[7]
References
[edit]- ^ Robert, Yola. "Jennifer Rudolph Walsh Is Bringing Powerful Women Together Through Storytelling". Forbes. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ "Makeup Mogul Victoria Jackson's Extraordinary Story — From Saving Her Daughter to Her Beauty World Comeback (Exclusive)". People.com. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ Rubin, Elycia (2024-09-11). "Former WME Literary Head Unveils Godmothers Bookstore to Star-Studded Crowd Including Oprah, Ted Sarandos and Meghan Markle". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ Hochman, David. "The Ultimate Santa Barbara Fall Guide: New Attractions, Winemaker Dinners And Royal Sightings". Forbes. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ Vanderhoof, Erin (2024-09-12). "Meghan Markle, in New Diamond Necklace, Reveals Her Safe Space Is a Bookstore". Vanity Fair. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ Dinaberg, Leslie (2024-10-28). "Summerland's Delicious New Bookstore Dishes Up More than Words". The Santa Barbara Independent. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ a b Subscribers, Jessica Ritz For (2024-11-14). "This cozy enclave near Santa Barbara offers up easy vibes and a dash of star power". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ Orsua, Leana (2024-12-03). "Brolin Gets Out 'From Under the Truck'". Montecito. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ Starkey, Jun (2024-10-02). "Honoring the godmothers who lit the way". Coastal View News. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ "Exclusive: Inside Meghan Markle's Surprise Appearance Alongside Oprah Winfrey at a Montecito Bookstore Opening". Town & Country. 2024-09-10. Retrieved 2025-03-07.
- ^ "Godmothers". goop. Retrieved 2025-03-07.