Tobey Maguire's Estranged Wife Jennifer Meyer Steps Out for the First Time Post-Split as Source Says They Led 'Separate Lives'

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Jennifer Meyer was photographed Thursday in Los Angeles, her first public outing since she and Tobey Maguire announced that they were separating after nine years of marriage.

The jewelry designer, 39, stepped out with a friend and smiled as they walked around, with Meyer keeping things casual in distressed jeans, a lace tank top and sandals.

A source tells PEOPLE that the couple, who have said that their two children — daughter Ruby, 9, and son Otis, 7 — remain their top priority, led “separate lives” outside of their time with their kids.

“They had a life together with the kids, but also separate lives. It really seemed to work for them,” the source says. “They took turns caring for the kids so they could spend time with their separate group of friends, too.”

Adds the source: “They were never a very affectionate couple in public, but always looked like they had fun. They just seem like very civil people and very mature about things.”

Maguire, 41, and Meyer announced Tuesday in a joint statement to PEOPLE that they were parting ways after nine years of marriage and 13 years together.

“After much soul searching and consideration we have made the decision to separate as a couple,” the two said. “As devoted parents, our first priority remains raising our children together with enduring love, respect and friendship.”

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Shortly after the news broke, a source told PEOPLE that the couple’s very different personalities had put a strain on their relationship.

“He’s extremely private and prefers to stay home, and she’s very social and has tons of girlfriends,” the source explained. “They haven’t been happy together for a long time. But they are great parents and they love their children.”