Meghan Markle underwent ‘crash course’ in journalism ‘lingo’ as Vogue guest editor

The Duchess of Sussex has revealed she was “nervous” about asking British Vogue editor Edward Enninful to edit the publication’s September issue and underwent a “crash course in editorial lingo” for the project.

Writing in the magazine’s editor’s letter, Meghan recalls how she met with Enninful “over a steaming cup of mint tea” in January to discuss how the two could work together to effectively communicate the causes they care about.

Hours later, the powerful duo exchanged ideas over text message until the Duchess “built up the courage” to ask if she could guest edit the September issue as opposed to fronting the cover of the magazine, as was initially suggested.

“I know how important the September issue is for the fashion industry,” Meghan said of pitching the idea. “I realise the reach, and I see the opportunity to be a part of fashion’s push for something greater, kinder, more impactful.

“But I am also a little nervous to be boldly asking the editor-in-chief, whom I’ve only just met, to take a chance on me.”

Much to the former Suits actor’s delight, Enninful accepted her request.

“Sitting on my sofa at home, two dogs nestled across me, I quietly celebrated when the words appeared on my screen,” she revealed.

Days later, the two began having regular meetings to discuss ideas for the issue, such as who they would like to interview and who they would want to feature on the cover.

“All while I was undergoing a crash course in editorial lingo,” Meghan explains, citing “the well” [the central features section of a magazine] and acronyms including “FOB”, which refers to the front section of a publication.

“I was trying to blend in,” she added, “to keep up with the pace of these seasoned professionals, and to learn as much as I could as quickly as possible.”

The magazine’s cover features 15 women as chosen by the Duchess, all of whom hail from the worlds of activism, politics, sports, Hollywood and beyond.

The September issue of British Vogue also features an exclusive interview conducted between the duchess and former US first lady Michelle Obama, in addition to a conversation between the Duke of Sussex and primatologist Dr Jane Goodall, an article written by I Weigh founder Jameela Jamil, and more.

In her editor’s letter, Meghan described working on the issue as “a very special time”, adding that she was “deeply honoured” to have been involved.

The Duchess concluded: “To the women who have taken my aspirations for this issue and brought them to life by being a part of this time capsule, both on the cover and in-book, I am so grateful; you are inspirations to me and I’m humbled by your support. And to you, the reader, thank you – and I hope you enjoy.”