Aesthetic Picnics: How to Acheive High Style with Low Key Effort In today’s episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host, Kristie LaLonde explores the trend of aesthetic picnics. Have you seen those stunning setups trending on social media? We're discussing how to picnic in high style with low-key effort. With warmer weather on the horizon, outdoor entertaining is in full swing. Aesthetic picnics have been all the rage on social media, offering a fresh and unique way to gather with friends. From elaborate setups to simple yet stylish affairs, there's a picnic trend for everyone. Kristie goes into detail in about a very simple picnic that she hosted for her daughter’s 18th birthday party that turned out to be very aesthetic but very little effort. She also gives tips and things to keep in mind when planning your own aesthetic picnic. Whether you're planning a lavish affair or a casual gathering, an aesthetic picnic is the perfect way to create new memories with friends.    Quick reminder: Tuesday the 14th is the last day to use the 30% off code for the Happy Cookbook Party. Join our community as we explore new recipes and hone our hosting skills together . Join the Happy Cookbook Party! http://happycookbookparty.com Use Code HH30 for 30% Off - Discount ends May 14 12:00 pm Happy Hostess Social Media Links: Instagram: @happyhostesscollective facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

How to Handle Common Party Mishaps with Grace and Ease   Episode 77 of the Happy Hostess Podcast delves into the inevitable mishaps that can occur at any party and offers solutions for handling them with grace and ease. Host Kristie LaLonde covers a range of common party pitfalls, from spilled red wine to dietary restrictions, providing practical tips and strategies for keeping guests comfortable and at ease. With humor and empathy, Kristie shares insights on handling drunk guests, unexpected cooking disasters, and even guests who overstay their welcome. Tune in for expert advice on navigating party mishaps and ensuring a memorable and enjoyable event for all.   Join the Happy Cookbook Party! https://happy-cookbook-party.milotreecart.com/   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: Instagram: @happyhostesscollective facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Beyond Cut Flowers: Thoughtful & Creative Mother’s Day Gift Ideas   In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host,  Kristie LaLonde is here to help you find the perfect Mother's Day gift that goes beyond the traditional bouquet of flowers. This episode is filled with fresh and heartfelt gift ideas to make your mom feel truly loved and appreciated.  With these thoughtful and creative gift ideas in mind, you're sure to make this Mother's Day one to remember!  Kristie also announces the winning cookbook of the Happy Cookbook Showdown on Instagram. The same cookbook that will be used for the upcoming Happy Cookbook Party, which promises to be a fun and interactive experience for hosts of all levels.Tune in to the Happy Hostess Podcast for more entertaining tips, hosting hacks, and creative ideas to elevate your hosting game.    Join the Happy Cookbook Wait List! http://happyhostesscollective.com/   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: Instagram: @happyhostesscollective facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 75: Baby Steps to Becoming the Hostess with the Mostest In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, Kristie LaLonde, shares small little actionable steps to increase your skills and confidence for entertaining at home.  Through heartfelt anecdotes and practical tips, Kristie inspires listeners to embrace imperfections, prioritize guest comfort, and celebrate every hosting success. Whether you're new to entertaining or seeking to elevate your skills, this episode offers encouragement and guidance for creating memorable gatherings with loved ones. Tune in to gain confidence, foster connections, and embark on a journey toward becoming the hostess with the mostess.   ~Resources~   Get Notified of Happy Hostess Cookbook Party Launch: http://happyhostesscollective.com/   Vote for your favorite cookbook to be featured for the Cookbook Party on Instagram:  @happyhostesscollective Episode 63 with Laura Brock of @thehouseofhanbury :  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-use-vintage-decor-for-your-table-and-home/id1653818512?i=1000643493324   https://thehouseofhanbury.com/   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: Instagram: @happyhostesscollective facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Kristie LaLonde, the host of the Happy Hostess Podcast is announcing that the official voting will begin for the  Happy Hostess Cookbook Collective Review.  Collective Cookbook Review will be an in depth look at one cookbook that will help hone your hosting skills and build community with like minded people.  In this episode, she unveils the exciting voting process, where YOU get to choose the cookbook that will guide us. Plus, discover how you can be part of the fun, cast your vote on Instagram and join a community that values creating memories with your loved one. Tune in now and learn more about how!    Get Notified for the Happy Hostess Collective Cookbook Review Launch: http://happyhostesscollective.com/   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 73 : How to Build a Community with a Cookbook Club   In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, Kristie LaLonde sits down with Holly Hyers,  a passionate home cook and entertainer. Holly shares her journey of creating and managing an online cookbook club, discussing the inspiration behind its inception and the unique experiences it offers to its members. Holly provides valuable tips for anyone interested in joining or starting their own online cookbook club, from fostering engaging discussions to organizing the details. She also shares heartwarming anecdotes and memorable moments from her own club, highlighting the sense of community and camaraderie that flourishes in these spaces. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this episode offers a delightful peek into a thriving community bound by a love for food, friendship, and fun.   About Holly: Holly Hyers moved around quite a bit growing up and landed as a young adult in Washington, DC in 2015. It was from there she began to realize connection and hospitality was vital to life. She got involved in community, work, church, and hosting in her apartments and eventual home. Living in a transient community, hospitality can look different and a welcome is shown in a variety of ways including being at work or even virtual. Holly began a virtual cookbook club in 2022 as a source of connection as people continued to move and schedules grew increasingly complicated. She looks forward to virtual cookbook clubs and more hospitality focused activities in the days ahead.   Connect with Holly: Holly’s Cookbook Club: https://sparkling-grass-252.myflodesk.com/r78vvemcvg    Holly’s Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/hollyahyers Resources: Get Notified for the Happy Hostess Collective Cookbook Review: http://happyhostesscollective.com/   The Preppy Podcast https://thepreppypodcast.com/   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 72 : 5 Myths of Flower Arranging at Home In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, host Kristie LaLonde] uncovers the truth behind five common myths about flower arranging at home. From debunking the notion that floral foam is beginner-friendly to explaining why refrigerating flowers at home can do more harm than good, each myth is tackled to help listeners step up their floral arranging skills. By debunking these myths, you will gain valuable insights into proper floral care, enabling them to create stunning arrangements that last longer and look their best. Tune in to learn how dispelling these myths can elevate your flower arranging game!   Resources:   Crowning Glory https://www.amazon.com/Crowning-Glory-Flower-Spray-Fl/dp/B007MO4LTI/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3R322HNZJSFXR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Eh9ZsJOVsbDrVul5G2KaRmdC5SKYXb3vTUke9_Di_GG0pXqcqrmIIETgRyR221uGaqtGD8SX7L0BvOaFCzOJ7N5qGK54F0QiDWCdbt7BXWX5kOFMJnJHKvLiiGqBbUKQbRAEp8o-h_YfFasGBb0k1vaNccXxH06o8l9ZNSaZADUQMEN-0GbRdEIZ-BPZ30Cg25gZHxJAfuLQu3NRVbb0UQ5IhR0AHM3R1zVZSFzsqyLTwAW7rrPXtIE-oQY_Nlw8B0ZHMrTMgI4CZxv9xGwQA0ThiQBmC5UBCyXE8cR12Pg.lYvw7a1kTvzfyyYs4_BstNb32AZY_byqkxYuaWsCS3c&dib_tag=se&keywords=crowning+glory+flower+spray&qid=1711993224&sprefix=crowning+glory%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-2 Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 71 : How to Elevate Your Bar at Home In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, host Kristie LaLonde invites Laurie Sugg, the talented mind behind The Fab Foo and the Raleigh Cocktail Company, to share her expertise on elevating the home bar experience. This episode delves into the latest trends in the cocktail scene and offers invaluable tips for infusing charm and sophistication into your personal bar setup. Listeners can expect to learn practical advice on how to transform their home bar into a stylish and inviting space. Laurie’s passion for mixology shines through as she shares her secrets with enthusiasm and warmth. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a novice bartender, this episode offers valuable guidance for taking your home bar to the next level! Laurie Sugg grew up in Wilmington, and has been married to her husband, Sam, for thirty-four years.  They have a young adult daughter living in Washington, DC. Laurie opened The Fab Foo in the spring of 2017 after a 30 year career in banking.  A lifelong collector of porcelains and Asian antiques, she decided it was the perfect time for a career change and put her history degree to use. Starting with porcelains, Laurie added Midcentury, French, Italian, Palm Beach, and other flavors of vintage décor to the shop, and eventually added a full line of gifts and entertaining accessories.  Laurie created the brand “Raleigh Cocktail Company” and launched the original first of its kind “cocktail boutique” after years spent building vintage inventory,  which started after she bought an “as is” Wrightsville Beach home.  The Fab Foo offers the largest selection of vintage barware and bar accessories in North Carolina, with over 500 sets of glassware, plus a full selection of mixers, tools for the home bartender, and cocktail themed gifts, all selected to “Elevate Your Spirits.” Resources: https://www.thefabfoo.com/   Find Laurie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefabfoo https://www.instagram.com/raleighcocktailcompany   Find Laurie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefabfoo https://www.facebook.com/raleighcocktailcompany   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 70 : A Simple and Delicious Easter Brunch Menu  In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, host Kristie LaLonde shares how to enjoy the Easter holiday with your friends and family by using a simple make Easter brunch menu. You will love it because all of the menu items have  little preparation on the day of Easter so that you get to enjoy your family and guests.  Your friends and family will feel loved and welcomed with a delicious meal!  Tune into the episode for all the details.   Resources: TimeLine Planner, Garlic Cheese Grits Recipe and Pineapple Casserole Recipe: https://happyhostess.myflodesk.com/easter   Episode 21: The Key to Stress Free Entertaining a Mealtime Planner https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-key-to-stress-free-entertaining-a-mealtime-planner/id1653818512?i=1000606251204   Episode 68: Keys to Avoiding Overwhelm When Planning a Party: Modify, Delegate, or Eliminate https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-keys-to-avoiding-overwhelm-when-planning-a/id1653818512?i=1000648057314   Mandarin Orange Salad Recipe: https://www.food.com/recipe/delicious-asian-chicken-salad-with-chow-mein-noodles-300183 Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 69: Inspiration and a Review of Together at the Table Entertaining at Home With the Creators of Juliska   In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, host Kristie LaLonde shares three  pieces of inspiration that she found from her first impression of the book, Together at the Table Entertaining at Home with the Creators of Juliska. The book is filled with beautiful gatherings, tables and floral arrangements.  The founders of Juliska, Capucine de Wulf Gooding and Mark Gooding do a beautiful job of sharing how they live well in today’s modern world. Tune in for inspiration and all the details about entertaining and creating memorable gatherings.   Resources:   Link to Updates for New Cookbook Series: http://happyhostesscollective.com/   Link for the book: Together at the Table Entertaining with the Creators of Juliska by Capucine de Wulf and David Gooding https://www.amazon.com/Together-Table-Entertaining-creators-Juliska/dp/141976196X/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=cdCDr&content-id=amzn1.sym.d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c%3Aamzn1.symc.50e00d6c-ec8b-42ef-bb15-298531ab4497&pf_rd_p=d0ebfbb2-6761-494f-8e2f-95743b37c35c&pf_rd_r=QW19WETMKTGP7KAE06AF&pd_rd_wg=6KXL5&pd_rd_r=f65f4246-9746-4d37-9a13-4d0c7883d02d&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mr_hp_atf_m Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 68 The Keys to Avoiding Overwhelm When Planning a Party: Modify, Delegate, or Eliminate Have you ever been so excited to plan a party but by the time the first guest arrived you were completely overwhelmed and  worn out?  If so, this is the episode for you. The host, Kristie LaLonde,  shares a process that helps her budget her time, energy and mental focus.  This process gives you the tools to host an instagram worthy party without all the stress and overwhelm.  Tune in to find out the secrets to avoiding overwhelm and still have the party of your dreams. Resources: Episode 61 How to Host a Buffet Style Dinner Party https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-hostess-podcast/id1653818512?i=1000641834195   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 67 How to Uplevel Your Table Settings: 5 Tips for a Beautiful and Memorable Table In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host, Kristie LaLonde, dives into the art of setting the table for a warm and welcoming dining experience. She covers it all, from how to get started to how to add charm and personality into your table decor.  Her tips and tricks will help you set a beautiful table that dazzles your guests and sets the stage for unforgettable experience. So whether you're hosting a formal dinner party or a casual gathering with friends, these expert insights will inspire you to infuse creativity, personality, and style into every aspect of your table setting. Tune in and discover how to transform your dinner party into a memorable event. Resources:   Speak Up With Laura Podcast by Dr. Laura Camacho  https://www.speakupwithlaura.com/   Episode 28 Communication Secrets https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-hostess-podcast/id1653818512?i=1000613198925   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 66: How to Create Family Traditions that Make Lasting Memories In this heartwarming episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host Kristie LaLonde sits down with Caroline Bowen, the creative mind behind Sweet Kaki's Pies. As they delve into the topic of family traditions, Caroline shares cherished memories and insights into how she has cultivated meaningful traditions over the years. From time-honored recipes passed down through generations to the joy of creating new traditions with her own family, Caroline's journey is sure to inspire listeners to embrace the power of shared experiences and the importance of creating lasting memories with loved ones. Join Kristie and Caroline as they explore the beauty of family traditions and the legacy of love they leave behind.   About Caroline: Caroline Bowen, also known as Kaki to her family & friends started her dream as a pie baker after suffering a heart attack in May of 2019. While recovering from her heart attack, Caroline had so many regrets of not starting her dream of having a pie business. When she completed her cardiac rehabilitation & on her one year anniversary of her heart attack, she started selling pies off of her front porch & she never looked back. Her business , Sweet Kaki’s, LLC grew & she has built her own commercial kitchen & she sells her pies to retailers in 6 states. Sweet Kaki’s is a business made out of true grit & love. Baking & selling her pies brings her pure joy.    Connect With Caroline: https://www.sweetkakis.com/   Caroline’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetkakis/   Caroline’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetkakishomemade/   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 65: Hosting to Create Connections and Build Community with Ashley Klaja In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, host Kristie LaLonde sits down with Ashley Klaja, a talented creator known for her captivating tablescapes adorned with delectable cake creations. Ashley shares her experience of suffering a loss and feeling like she was alone in her suffering. This eventually  led to Ashley to start hosting monthly events called Chick Chats, aimed at nurturing connections among women in the community. Ashley gives all the details so that you can foster relationships and create connections in your community.  She also gives us the scoop on her recent experience of creating one of her amazing cake tablescapes for Kathy Hilton. It's a fun and inspiring conversation about how food, creativity, and conversations can really bring people closer. Tune  in for all of the details! About Ashley:  Ashley has been a “creator” since before it was the cool thing to be.  She has always been inspired to develop a vision and then use her skills and intuition to turn those visions into reality. Whether it’s decorating a table, hosting a party or renovating an entire house, everything starts with a vision. Once she knows the aesthetic, her imagination takes over and  she doesn’t stop until it’s picture perfect! Connect With Ashley: https://www.asweetatthetable.com/   Ashley’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asweetatthetable   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 64: Soup Supper Success: Tips and Recipes for the Beginner Hostess   In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host, Kristie LaLonde, discusses  the art of hosting a simple yet heartwarming soup supper that's perfect for every hostess, from the very experienced to the beginner.  She  shares some of her favorite soup recipes, very simple menus  and imparts valuable tips for making soup in general. Whether you're planning a cozy gathering with friends or a relaxed family dinner, this episode provides the guidance you need to make your soup supper a resounding success. Tune in for some entertaining at home  inspiration, practical advice, and the comfort of a well-hosted meal that will warm your guest’s heart and soul!   ~Resources~:   Link for the Santa Fe and Potato Soup Recipes https://happyhostess.myflodesk.com/rgunot5fle   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: Instagram: @happyhostesscollective facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 63 : How to Use Vintage Decor for the Table and Home   Step into the enchanting world of vintage decor and home entertaining with a brand-new episode of The Happy Hostess Podcast! Join the host, Kristie LaLonde, as she sits down with Laura Brock, owner of the House of Hanbury – an online store dedicated to vintage decor that adds a touch of timeless elegance to your home. In this inspiring episode, Laura shares her passion for all things vintage and reveals the secrets to incorporating vintage items on your table when entertaining at home. From antique dinnerware to charming centerpieces Laura's expertise will leave you brimming with creative ideas to make your gatherings truly unforgettable. Laura's tips on sourcing unique vintage pieces and combining them with contemporary elements will have you eager to curate your own distinctive tablescapes. Whether you're a seasoned entertainer looking to infuse more character into your gatherings or a novice seeking inspiration for your first hosted event, this episode is a full of insights and inspiration. Tune in to learn how to elevate your home entertaining game and create unforgettable memories with the charm of vintage decor. About Laura: Laura Brock comes from a family that has always admired vintage finds.  From an early age, she has loved to create memories around a fancy holiday dining table, using her finest linens, china and silver found while antiquing with her mother.   Laura enjoys studying the history of unique finds with her husband, who also comes from a family of collectors. A former school teacher, she and her husband raised 2 sons and then it was time for Laura to figure out what would bring her happiness in the next phase of life.   Which is where THE HOUSE OF HANBURY (named after her sweet mom, Shirley “Bucky” Hanbury) comes into play. Laura still enjoys the “thrill of the find” and placing that item into a home where it’s loved, cherished, displayed or used to create more countless memories for years to come.   -How to Connect with Laura:   https://thehouseofhanbury.com/   Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thehouseofhanbury Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thehouseofhanbury   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: Instagram: @happyhostesscollective facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 62: How to Set Up a Bar at Home   In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host, Kristie LaLonde, details how to set up a home bar for a typical dinner party for 10-12. She takes all the guesswork out of how much and what type of alcohol, what mixers you need along with all the hardware such as tools and glassware.  You’ll be able to set up a home bar in no time that will be sure to please your guests. Tune in for all the details!   Resources Mentioned:   Home Bar Essentials Checklist: https://happyhostess.myflodesk.com/z3ux8k189o   Boozy Cherries from In the Curious Kitchen: https://inthecuriouskitchen.com/shop/p/boozycherries Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 61: How to Host a Buffet Style Dinner Party   In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host, Kristie LaLonde answers a listener’s question about the logistics of a buffet style dinner party for 12. Lydia S. from Summit, New Jersey asks, “Could you do an episode on managing the logistics of parties for 10-12 people? In the past when we have had parties my husband and I are always running around serving people so we don’t have enough time to have real conversations.  I’d like some tips on letting guests self-serve at larger dinner parties. In particular, my questions are: 1) for cocktails: how and where to set up a bar and hors d'oeuvres so guests can help themselves and 2) for dinner: could you talk about logistics for serving everyone the same thing vs setting up a buffet table? How can I prevent the food from getting cold when it’s a buffet?  Thank you!” Tune in to the episode to hear answers  these questions and more!   Resources Mentioned: Episode #2 How to Kerp Food Warm for Thanksgiving https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-hostess-podcast/id1653818512?i=1000586285255   Party Host Helpers: https://partyhosthelper.com Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 60: Party and At Home Entertaining Trend Predictions for 2024   Are you curious what you will be seeing alot of in parties and table decor this year?  In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, Kristie LaLonde, is reviewing last year’s trend predictions from 2023 to see if she was on target or had some big misses.  Of course, she is also making predictions for 2024 as well!  Tune in to this episode to discover exciting and fun party and table top trends you can use for your next get together!   Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

Episode 59:  Mindset Shifts for Entertaining at Home   Are you wanting to host more this coming new year? What mindset shifts do you need to make to make that happen? In this episode, Kristie LaLonde shares an episode of Conversations with the Hostess podcast with Amy Long.  Amy was gracious enough to have Kristie as a guest and they are discussing all things hosting and how our mindset influences the way we entertain guests.  Tune in for the complete conversation!   Resources Mentioned: Conversations With the Hostess: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conversations-with-the-hostess/id1513842328 Lydia Menzies Supper Club: https://lydiamenzies.com/supper-club/ Happy Hostess Social Media Links: https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/ https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective