Meghan Markle made headlines once again as she attended the G9 Ventures Summer Summit in the Hamptons, a significant event for high-powered women in business. Hosted by influential power broker Amy Griffin, the summit attracted a diverse group of successful women, each contributing to the dynamic atmosphere of the event.
The Duchess of Sussex, 42, arrived at the summit by private jet from Santa Barbara, California, accompanied by entrepreneur Jamie Kern Lima. The purpose of her visit was clear: to gather insights and strategies for her forthcoming lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which has yet to make its official debut. This move reflects Markle’s continued ambition to build a business empire similar to that of renowned figures like Martha Stewart.
The summit, known for its high-profile attendees and its impressive venue—a sprawling estate valued at over $13 million—featured a star-studded guest list. Among the attendees were Markle’s close friends, including designer Misha Nonoo and makeup guru Victoria Jackson. The event also saw appearances from influential figures such as Weight Watchers CEO Sima Sistani, investor Kirsten Greene, actress Gwyneth Paltrow, and A-list star Reese Witherspoon.
Amy Griffin, who organized the summit, is renowned for her expertise in guiding early-stage startups and her ability to leverage her extensive network for brand development. Griffin’s impact on brands like Goop and Bumble underscores her influential role in the industry. Her approach to mentorship, often described as using “soft power,” focuses on building personal relationships and providing strategic support beyond mere financial investment.
Markle’s attendance at the G9 Ventures Summit aligns with her ongoing efforts to carve out a niche in the lifestyle and business sectors. Her previous venture, The Tig, showcased her interest in lifestyle content, and now, with American Riviera Orchard, Markle aims to offer a blend of lifestyle and food advice, drawing parallels to Stewart’s successful brand.
The summit offered Markle a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders and gain valuable insights that could shape the future of her brand. The event also provided a platform for discussions on entrepreneurship and personal branding, essential elements for Markle as she prepares for the launch of her new venture.
Griffin’s role as a mentor and advisor at the summit highlighted the importance of supportive networks in achieving business success. Her personal involvement and commitment to helping founders succeed were emphasized by Spanx CEO Sara Blakely, who described Griffin as a friend and champion to many entrepreneurs.
As Markle prepares to unveil American Riviera Orchard, her participation in the G9 Ventures Summit represents a strategic step in refining her business acumen and expanding her professional network. The insights gained from this event, coupled with her previous experiences and connections, will likely play a crucial role in the successful launch and growth of her new brand.
