#104 Graceful Hosting and Helping in the Wake of Loss

This episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast is a tender and meaningful conversation with Lisa Cleary, a founding member of the Happy Cookbook Party. Lisa recently lost her father and chose to host the reception following his funeral—a decision that brought comfort, connection, and even healing. She shares the practical steps she took, what helped her most, and how hospitality became a way to honor her father’s life. We also talk about how to support a grieving friend in thoughtful, genuine ways. Lisa’s story is full of heart, wisdom and practical ways to support anyone navigating loss and grief.

Topics Covered

• Why Lisa chose to host the reception herself
• How hospitality helped her navigate grief
• The first questions she asked herself while planning
• What to delegate—and what to keep personal
• How to reflect a loved one’s personality through food and details
• What kind of help was actually helpful
• How hospitality can bring peace and healing, even in hard times

Thank you to Lisa Cleary for sharing so openly and graciously. Her story is a beautiful reminder of how we can show love through service, even when our hearts are hurting.

Join Us in the Happy Cookbook Party!

Website:- http://happycookbookparty.com/

Happy Hostess

https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/

https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

https://www.happyhostesscollective.com/

Ep. 103 –Hospitality with Heart: What We Learned from Amy Hannon’s Love Welcome Serve

In this episode of the Happy Hostess Podcast, Kristie reviews Love Welcome Serve by Amy Nelson Hannon after cooking through the book with the Happy Cookbook Party, an online cookbook club. This cookbook is filled with hospitality-minded recipes, practical tips, and a faith-filled perspective that encourages intentional gathering. Kristie shares her favorite dishes from each section, from appetizers to desserts. If you're looking for a cookbook that’s both heartwarming and hostess-friendly, this one deserves a spot in your kitchen. Plus, she announces the next pick for the Happy Cookbook Party — Celebrate with Babs by Barbara Costello. Don’t miss your chance to join the community and bring the fun back to your kitchen!

Join Us in the Happy Cookbook Party!

Website:- http://happycookbookparty.com/

Love, Welcome, Serve by Amy Nelson Hannon

https://amzn.to/4kQ0ENr

Amy Nelson Hannon

https://eunamaes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/eunamaes/

Celebrate With Babs by Barbara Costello

https://amzn.to/43XEfId

Happy Hostess

https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/

https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

https://www.happyhostesscollective.com/

Episode 102: Cohosting Made Easy: Avoid Stress & Enjoy the Celebration

Have you ever planned a party with friends? How did it go—smooth sailing or a bit chaotic? In today’s episode of The Happy Hostess Podcast, we’re diving into the ins and outs of cohosting. Whether you’re planning a bridal shower, baby shower, or any special event with others, it’s essential to set yourself up for success. We’ll explore how to minimize stress, avoid conflict, and make cohosting a truly enjoyable experience.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to choose your cohosts wisely to create a balanced team.

• The importance of clear communication and setting expectations early.

• Tips for staying organized and using planning tools effectively.

• How to divide responsibilities based on strengths and interests.

• Discuss the best ways to split costs and avoid financial misunderstandings.

• How to handle potential conflicts and keep the focus on the guest of honor.

Key Takeaways:

1. Pick the Right Cohosts – Choose people who are reliable, flexible, and work well with others.

2. Establish Expectations Early – Decide how decisions will be made and how you’ll communicate.

3. Stay Organized – Use a shared planning tool to keep track of tasks and responsibilities.

4. Divide and Conquer – Assign tasks based on skills and preferences to make planning easier.

5. Be Considerate – If the event is at someone’s home, be mindful of their added responsibilities.

6. Handle Finances Upfront – Decide whether costs will be split evenly or divided by category.

7. Focus on the Bigger Picture – The goal is to celebrate the guest of honor and enjoy the process!

By following these tips, you can avoid the common pitfalls of cohosting and ensure your party planning experience is fun, smooth, and stress-free.

Listen now and get ready to cohost with confidence!

🎉 Join the Conversation: Have you cohosted a party before? Share your experiences with us on social media!

👉 Follow & Subscribe: Don’t forget to subscribe to The Happy Hostess Podcast so you never miss an episode!

Happy Hostess

Website:- http://happycookbookparty.com/

Happy Hostess

https://www.instagram.com/happyhostesscollective/

https://m.facebook.com/happyhostesscollective

https://www.happyhostesscollective.com/