Happy Hostess Podcast

Soup Supper Success: Tips and Recipes for the Beginner Hostess

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

How to Use Vintage Decor For Your Table and Home

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
 

How to Set Up a Bar for Your Home or Dinner Party

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
 

How to Host a Buffet Style Dinner Party

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
 

Party and At Home Entertaining Trend Predictions for 2024

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

Mindset Shifts for Entertaining at Home

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

10 Last Minute Centerpiece Ideas for the Holidays

Episode 58: 10 Last Minute Holiday Centerpiece Ideas for the Holidays
 
The holidays are filled with so much activity and festivities that we may need a quick and easy centerpiece to complete our table for the holiday meal. In this festive episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host Kristie LaLonde shares ten different super quick and easy centerpiece ideas that can be created in less than fifteen minutes.  Most of these ideas can be easily created with things you already have in your house.   Kristie uses everything from ornaments, live flowers to faux snow. You will find lots of ideas that will be perfect just for you to get ready for hosting the holidays!
 
Happy Hostess Link:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/
 
 

How to Prepare for a Stress Free Christmas Morning Brunch

Episode 7. How to Prepare for a Stress Free Christmas Morning Brunch
 
Kristie LaLonde, your host of the Happy Hostess Podcast, offers valuable advice on creating a serene and stress-free Christmas morning. Achieving a peaceful holiday experience hinges on effective preparation in four key areas: mental readiness, home environment, gift arrangements, and culinary planning.Preparation of the Mind, Home, Presents and the Food.  Listen in to make your Christmas morning one to remember filled with peace and less stress.
 
Resources:
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe:  https://tinyurl.com/Sausage-Breakfast-Casserole
God Came Near by Max Lucado:  https://a.co/d/4vi2Dbm
 

Joy Unwrapped: 25 Christmas Tradition Ideas

Episode 56: Joy Unwrapped: 25 Christmas Tradition Ideas
 
In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, the host, Kristie LaLonde, shares 25 fun Christmas traditions that you can start this year  to make memories  with your loved ones. The list is made up of listener favorites, party theme ideas, traditions that are perfect for making new memories with friends and of course family focused traditions for Christmas.  From simple  to more elaborate, this list has something for everyone.   Kristie is a true believer that the repetitive nature of traditions creates cherished memories and bonds us together with our friends and family.  Share your own Christmas traditions on Instagram by using the #happyhostesstraditions. Whether you're looking to revive old traditions or start new ones, this episode offers plenty of inspiration for creating loving memories during the holiday season.
 
Resources~
 
Bauble Stockings:
https://www.baublestockings.com/
 
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson:
https://www.amazon.com/Best-Christmas-Pageant-Ever/dp/0064402754
 
Happy Hostess Link:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/
 

An Elegant Low Stress Christmas Dinner Menu

Episode 55: An Elegant Low Stress Christmas Dinner Menu
 
Join host Kristie LaLonde in this special holiday episode of The Happy Hostess Podcast, where she guides you through the art of creating an elegant yet stress-free Christmas dinner menu. Kristie shares her expert tips and hand-picked recipes for a memorable feast that will impress your guests without leaving you frazzled in the kitchen. From a mouthwatering appetizer to show-stopping main course and a delicious dessert, you'll discover the secrets to hosting a sophisticated Christmas dinner without breaking a sweat. Tune in to ensure your holiday gathering is filled with delightful flavors and cherished moments. It's the perfect episode to make your Christmas celebration a delicious and stress-free success!
Resources Mentioned:
 
Lydia Menzies Party Week Christmas Tree Tea
https://lydiamenzies.com/party-week-christmas-tree-tea/
 
Sally’s Baking Addiction Cranberry Sauce Recipe:https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/cranberry-sauce/
 
Pioneer Woman’s Burgundy Mushrooms Recipe:
https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9476/burgundy-mushrooms/
 
Au Gratin Potatoes :
Note*  I like to substitute cheeses in the recipe.  Gruyere and Parmesan are delicious as well instead of Cheddar Cheese.
https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/15925/creamy-au-gratin-potatoes/
 
Amy Hannon’s Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze:https://books.google.com/books?id=79WdEAAAQBAJ&pg=PA143&lpg=PA143&dq=amy+hannon+roasted+honey+brussel+sprouts&source=bl&ots=48qhhDHZ-K&sig=ACfU3U15sPBfyBve7ZadtYNALhczt_2dcw&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwizjPK5h-WCAxVHrokEHZPDCLIQ6AF6BAgIEAM#v=onepage&q=amy%20hannon%20roasted%20honey%20brussel%20sprouts&f=false
 
Happy Hostess Link:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/