Gatherings Podcast

In the final episode, we are talking about our favorite parties from the past year and some fun details about what made them so great! Chrystina’s Burlesque 29th Birthday Party Jess’ Annual Cookie Party The 30th Birthday Party that Jess threw for her husband Christina’s friend Heather’s Laid-back Pool Party Christina’s friend Maddison’s karaoke Birthday Party Jess’ Annual Camping Trip Friendsgiving Christina’s friend Stephanie’s Birthday party Year 10 Not-A-Wedding Party in the Poconos Then we veered off track a bit about renting houses with large groups. Our Usual Final Questions: What are you planning right now? Chrystina: My 30th birthday party. Jessica: Girls Night Party in the new Year How are you staying in touch? Jessica: snail main and carepackages Chrystina: visiting friends in far off places What are you into right now? Chrystina: Disney Jessica: Creating a Toxin-Free Home

Episode 10 is all about the kids. We spent some time chatting with Andy Shaw of Instafather.com  about hosting kids parties, hosting a kid at an adult party, bringing kids to parties and more. In this episode, there are a lot of great little tips for navigating the waters with little ones, whether they are yours or not.    Meet Andy Shaw How Chrystina + Andy Met Andy's Day Job His improv comedy   Kid smoothie recipes (we got a little side tracked) Jess’ questions from a parents perspective Bounce House, Actors & Extras vs old fashioned playtime Don’t set your kid up for failure Thoughts on Nap times Gift Opening at parties Buying gifts for kids Throwing parties at facilities vs home Thoughts on decorations Food, dietary restrictions and more When do parents stop coming? Chrystina’s questions from a non-parent perspective How long are kids parties? Making small talk with children Getting comfortable with inviting kids to your home Is babyproofing necessary? Andy’s Guest Post on Chrystina’s Blog Snacks for kids to have on hand Portable folding highchair New Mom's Guide to New Dads preview What are you planning right now? How are you staying in touch? What are you into right now? Find Andy online: ·         Instafather.com ·         Twitter ·         Instagram

In Episode 9 of Season 2, we had the opportunity to speak with Rico Gagliano and Brendan Francis Newnam, the authors of Brunch is Hell. This was such a fun episode to record where we discussed everything from dinner parties to playlists to icebreaker jokes. Brendan and Rico shared the title they originally wanted to give their book and their most memorable dinner parties. Definitely an episode not to be missed. (Also, if you're a dinner party person, Brunch is Hell should absolutely be on your reading list.) Meet Rico and Brendan The Dinner Party Download Icebreaker Small talk Guest of honor Cocktails Brunch Is Hell Their origin story The end of the podcast The start of the book Brunch is Hell The title of the book (and the almost title of the book) Why (restaurant) brunch is awful Dinner Parties Dinner party identifiers Helping people with guidance Etiquette rules Nights to throw dinner parties aka "Tuesdays are Dumb" Most Memorable Dinner Parties Brendan's Friday night dinner party Rico and Brendan planning to have a memorable dinner party because Rico doesn't actually have one to add to the list. Rico's childhood dinner parties Bakers vs. Cooks Rico and Brendan are cooks Great British Bake Show Icebreakers The hope of reviving the joke Why didn't the lifeguard save the hippie? Knock knock. Who's there? To. To who? Music Playlist Choices Sister Maryam Guebrou (Amazon / YouTube) Movie Soundtracks Blowup by Herbie Hancock (Amazon / YouTube) Cotton Club (Amazon / YouTube) Rico's belief that 70's Disco Music is perfect dinner party music The P.D.P.D.P. Quick Hit Inspiration Don't worry about it. What are you planning right now? Chrystina: My 30th birthday party. Rico: 90th birthday party in New Hampshire Brendan: Tuna melt Jessica: Blogger meet-ups What's happening in your kitchen? Jessica: Local 30 challenge, canning, freezing, and dehydrating Brendan: Brendan's refrigerator in New York Rico: Losing money because of extra cold refrigerator Chrystina: Alcohol How are you staying in touch? Rico: All the ways Brendan: Coffee, cocktails, and thank you notes Jessica: Girls' day Chrystina: Not doing so great. What are you into right now? Jessica: Nesting Rico: Ava Luna performs Serge Gainsbourg's Historie de Melody Nelson and Lina Waithe Brendan: Romaine hearts and Cate Le Bon's Are You With Me Now? Chrystina: Acai bowl from Oola Bowls in Lancaster, PA Find us online: Rico Twitter Safe for Work Brendan Twitter Instagram The Paris Review Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

In Episode 8, we spoke with Sean Hand about networking, more specifically how to transfer the networking skills of the office to dinner parties, weddings, and more. In this episode, Sean shares a lot of great stories and tips on how to prepare for an event ahead of time. Not only that, but we talk about how to best utilize your plus ones at an event (and/or be the best plus one you can be). We're looking forward to sharing this episode with you all and hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Sean is the founder of a professional development website – AwkwardNetworker.com as well the Awkward Networker Podcast to help his global audience achieve networking success in their personal and professional lives. He has spoken to a wide range of audiences across the country and has been known to help improve the personal brand of thousands of people. Sean is a tireless advocate for young professional mentorship, with a passion for philanthropy, organizational development, and public speaking.  He sits on multiple non-profit and professional organization boards, with many leadership and developmental roles therein. Meet Sean Hand How Chrystina + Sean met Sean's Day Job The start of Awkward Networker Extroverts and Introverts APQ: Audience, Purpose, Questions A: Plan ahead to know your audience Do your research on events Searching Facebook ahead of time for parties P: What's your purpose? Q: Create two questions specific enough to be interesting Tips for Networking What's the first thing you say to somebody Warming up ahead of time Tips for being the / having the Plus One Get the ground rules down The Plus One is responsible for names Tips for being the Host or Hostess What are you planning right now? Chrystina: Her weekends Sean: A Salt Lake City, UT work trip Jessica: Vacation and camping What's happening in your kitchen? Jessica: Local 30 challenge Sean: No cheese Chrystina: Haven't cooked a meal in 3 weeks How are you staying in touch? Chrystina: One line emails to people Sean: Thank you notes and trinkets Jessica: Photography business hellos What are you into right now? Jessica: The Dirty Life Sean: Golf Chrystina: Her travel mug Find us online: Sean Hand The Awkward Networker Website The Awkward Networker Facebook Sean's Twitter Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

In Episode 7, we had the opportunity to speak with Ali Rosen from Potluck with Ali about keeping things simple while entertaining. The conversation takes a few turns, but there are some great tips throughout about avoiding party tension, setting yourself up for success, pre-party preparation tips, and tips to keep things simple. You'll also hear about that time Ali cooked for a bunch of fancy chefs, another version of the bakers vs. cooks debate, and a breakdown of prioritizing relationships for staying in touch. We're excited for you to take a listen! Ali Rosen is the founder and host of Potluck with Ali Rosen, a television show, and website dedicated to sharing the best and brightest in food. Potluck airs on NYC Life and its videos have appeared on HuffPost, Edible, and People. She is also the author of Bring It!: Tried and True Recipes for Potlucks and Entertaining. Ali was named as one of Forbes Magazine's 30 Under 30 for Food & Drink. She has also written for sites including Bon Appétit, Epicurious, Fodor's, and Refinery 29. Potluck was nominated for an Emmy as well as two IACP awards and Thrillist said Ali had one of the coolest jobs in food (she agrees). She is from Charleston, South Carolina, but currently lives in New York City. Meet Ali Rosen How Jessica found out about Ali How she got into food & entertaining The metaphor (& literal definition) of "potluck" Jessica and Ali bond over hating baking What Ali brings to potlucks Recipe testing The "this might not be good"self-deprecating tactic Cooks vs. bakers Party tension If you are calm (as the host), it's going to be a great party Jessica's friend's gender reveal party story Surprise parties Removing as many potential obstacles as possible Setting yourself up for success Helping people help themselves Spending money on party help Finding party help Facebook it Local colleges Care.com Urbansitter Task rabbit Spending money where it serves you best Pre-party preparation tips Plan hour-by-hour (and using excel) Have dishes that are all served at room temperature Pasta (anchovy and pistachio pasta from Bring It) An interesting salad (roasted corn, tomato, feta, and basil salad from Bring It) Meat (with the right amount of sauce, and the right amount of flavor) Do as much ahead of time as possible Tips to keep things simple Buying pre-cut things Buy pre-peeled garlic (not pre-minced) Have the right equipment on hand (strawberry huller)  Buy things pre-made That time Ali cooked for a bunch of fancy chefs Ask for help Take it back to your roots Make sure you feel comfortable Advice for nervous hosts:  Have fun.  If you look over a recipe and it looks daunting to you, skip it. Cook something that you love and you're excited about. What's going on in your kitchen? Jessica: Grilling Ali: Summer produce (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) Chrystina: Clean floors What are you planning right now? Chrystina: Living that travel life Ali: Rhode Island blueberry pies Jessica: Husband's birthday, camping trips How are you staying in touch? Chrystina's blog post: Balancing staying in touch and self-care Doubling down on close friends Prioritizing friendships Social media blackouts Community Made podcast episode: Prioritizing relationships If they wanted to keep in touch with you, they could be What are you into right now? Chrystina: TJMaxx shopping sprees Ali: Crop tops Jessica: Revamping blogs & painting murals Find us online: Ali Rosen Website Facebook Instagram Twitter Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

In Episode 6, we talk with Jennifer Coyle from Hello Brio about minimalism and party planning. We cover everything from food and drink to table settings, paper products, and more. We also have a detailed discussed about some of our favorite sustainable kitchen items. We all now have plenty of new ideas to make our kitchens more eco-friendly, and would love to hear some of the tips you're using in your kitchen too! Jennifer is the editor behind Hello Brio, a lifestyle blog dedicated to helping people create their own true happiness. She believes in minimalism, mindfulness, intentional living, and nearo waste (near zero waste). Jenn is a self-taught web developer, momma to baby Beans, hand lettering artist, and burrito lover. An Introduction to Jenn & Minimalism Nearo Waste Minimalism and Party Planning  Food & Drink Table Settings Corelle Plates Paper Products Etsy Napkins Marleys Monsters Kitchen Towels Decor Guest Lists Gifts (or No Gifts) Sending Invitations Paperless Post Setup + Kitchen Tools Labeling recycling Beeswax Wraps Rachel Ray Bowl Covers Product Mesh Bags Sustainable Dog Poop Bags What are you planning right now? Chrystina: Mafia Party Jennifer: Wedding Jessica: Summer Events What's going on in your kitchen? Jessica: Working with different cuts of meat Jennifer: Chris cooking most of the meals + meal planning Chrystina: Qdoba How are you staying in touch? Chrystina: Badass babes dinner Jennifer: One on one texting Jessica: Reaching out, camping trips, and summer events What are you into right now? Jessica: Fall of Giants, Second Nature, Third Plate, Will Write for Food Jennifer: Business aspect of blog + walking Chrystina: A new bed Find us online: Jennifer Coyle + Hello Brio Website Instagram Twitter Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

In Episode 5, Jessica interviews Chrystina about starting a conference. Chrystina started a blogger community called PHLbloggers in Philadelphia in September 2014. Since then, it has grown to a community of 350 members with an annual conference called The Blog Connect. This past April was year three. Jessica gets inside Chrystina's head about where the idea came from, how to handle the logistics, and tips she's learned along the way. The Blog Connect Recaps: 2016, 2017, and 2018 What made you start a conference? What was the first step from idea to action? What makes a good conference? Is there anything you've wanted to do with the conference so far that hasn't worked out? What's something you thought would be hard that wasn't? What were any unexpected hurdles that you faced? How do you keep everything organized? How do you keep a team in line with your vision? How do you get speakers? How do you get sponsors? How do you set a price point for tickets? What are you planning right now? Chrystina: A work badass babes dinner Jess: !!!!! What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina: Stephen's making homemade pasta (again) Jess: All the cheese and potatoes Jess' 100 Days of Meal Planning Chrystina's mom's twice-baked potato casserole How are you staying in touch? Jess: Actually avoiding people Chrystina: Snail mail! MyPostcard What are you into right now? Chrystina: Cleaning Jess: Television, Lost in Space Find us online: The Blog Connect Team Skinny Affair Shades of Sarah Paint the Town Chic Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

For Episode 4, we had the chance to chat with Kristin Donnelly, the author of the Modern Potluck cookbook, and her newest cookbook, Cauliflower. Throughout this episode we talk about Kristin's past career as a Food & Wine magazine food editor, the logistics of hosting potlucks, potluck tips for guests, and more. We definitely all hit it off and ended up on a few tangents including pyrex outlet stores and pig roasts. Hope you enjoy! Meet Kristin Donnelly  A discussion of what it means to be a food editor of Food & Wine magazine Life of a blogger Work life balance The Modern Potluck cookbook Potlucks & casseroles Tried & true dinner party habits The rules of the potluck The logistics of potlucks Potluck tips for guests Holidays & potlucks What are you planning right now? Jess: Son's and husband's birthdays Kristin: Husband's birthday & pig roasts Chrystina: Roommate's surprise birthday party What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina: Dino nuggets Kristin: Cleaning out the fridge Jess: Still figuring out sour dough bread & fresh produce How are you staying in touch? Jess: Texting Kristin: Picking up the phone Chrystina: Setting up phone calls What are you into right now? Chrystina: Boxed rose wine Kristin: Stewart & Claire, Artemis Design Co. Jess: Her garden (again) & garden videos Find us online: Kristin Eat Better, Drink Better Instagram Kristin Donnelly.com Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

Y'all are in for a treat today. In Season 2, Episode 3 of Gatherings Podcast we sat down with Madeline from Where is the Damn Corkscrew about 10 overlooked party to-dos and went over her handy last minute party checklist. We each shared our own stories about times that things went well (and not so well) in each of these areas, and we're so excited to be sharing the list with you today! If you are interested in downloading Madeline's freebie, make sure to sign up for her VIP list here. Madeline is the founder and hostess-in-chief over at Where Is The Damn Corkscrew. She's a checklist champion, recovering people-pleaser, reformed perfectionist, and self-identified ambivert (half introvert, half extrovert). She spent years struggling with awkwardness, disorganization, and psychological barriers when hosting and attending parties and events. Despite those challenges she forged ahead into the abyss anyway, organizing and attending and professionally staffing events left and right, because she loves sharing quality time with friends and family. The struggle was worth it, event planning is now as natural as breathing, and she teaches her Sane Party Planning system over at Where Is The Damn Corkscrew to help ordinary people plan extraordinary parties and events in their personal lives - with sanity and budget intact. Meet Madeline General Awkwardness Turning 30: Words of Wisdom from 30 Women Who've Been There Giving people an opportunity to party 10 Overlooked Last Minute Party Items To get a copy of the full list, sign up for Madeline's VIP list Your job as a host is to make your guests not feel like an idiot What are you planning right now? Jess: Summer planning Madeline: Bachelorette Party Chrystina: Murder Mystery Party What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina: Running out of everything Madeline: Bread baking! Jess: Bread and using green things! How are you staying in touch? Jess: Girls day party, high school friends, and making new mom friends Madeline: One on one girl time via the buddy system Chrystina: Tribe emails What are you into right now? Chrystina: Getting rid of things, no spend March (The Year of Less) Madeline: Fountain pen notebooks Jess: Books on getting your baby to sleep Find us online: Where is the Damn Corkscrew Instagram Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

Episode 2 of Season 2 and we've decided it's time for us to get real with y'all. Even though we've been hosting parties for years, it doesn't mean that we're not affected by imposter syndrome. (Which, in case you didn't know is when you feel like a fraud while you're doing it.) For this discussion we've brought in Ana from Rosemary and Rye to bring her own insight to the discussion. She's the most positive person, and you're going to love her. We're super excited to share the episode with you, enjoy! Ana is the self taught chef, photographer, baguette lover, and blogger behind Rosemary + Rye. She lives in the beautiful state of Colorado and, naturally, enjoys craft brews and kombucha. If she's not making a huge mess cooking in the kitchen, she can be found snuggling with her rescue pup, Harper; hiking; or sneaking bites of home made ice cream out of the freezer. Meet Ana and Rosemary & Rye Why we're talking about the imposter syndrome Our imposter syndrome moments The social media problem (Pinterest, Instagram, and more) Living in a small space BBQ in the Park Chrystina's tips for hosting in small spaces Qualifying things before serving them Taco bars & burrito bars Worried that you're forcing people into things The "here's a bottle of wine" approach Worried about leftover food (and also making too much food) Jess' red pepper dip (Sometimes she skips the mozzarella and parm and just goes for the smoked gruyere or gouda - whatever she's feeling.) What to keep in the house at all times Ana's bread maker best loaf of bread with concentric circles Round proofing bowl (with concentric circles) Jess' dutch oven bread Bringing multiple groups of friends together Not cooking meat Dietary restrictions Meat thermometers Mismatched flatware, glassware, and plates Light brown cloth napkins When the first 10 people RSVP 'No' Worrying your themes are corny How to facilitate good conversation at a party The Big Life by Ann Shoket Chrystina's post on badass babes dinners How to deal with some of these things What are you planning right now? Jess: Girls' Day Ana: Pancake Breakfast Bar Chrystina: Badass Babes Dinner #5 and a Murder Mystery Party What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina: All the Pyrex Ana: Soft dinner rolls Jess: Sour Dough How are you staying in touch? Jess: Girls' Day & Overnight Guests Anna: Mario Kart Party Chrystina: Do something with my staying in touch list What are you into right now? Chrystina: The Slow Home podcast Ana: Top Chef (Colorado edition) Jess: Almost toddler life Find us online: Rosemary & Rye Facebook Instagram Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

And we're back, for Episode 1 of Season 2. During this episode, we got the chance to interview Joan Porambo and Kyle MacPherson from Field Notes, NY. During this episode they talk about how they started hosting dinners at the Lansing Farm in upstate New York. We talk about food, timing when cooking for so many people, and the logistics of hosting outdoors. We also get an insider's look at the life of a chef, which was really cool! A little more about Joan and Kyle: We're two school and industry educated chefs who are looking to gain a better appreciation for where the food we cook with comes from, and who grows it. In order to evolve and learn, we've teamed up with the Lansing family to do dinners on the farm each week, using crops from the surrounding fields. We hope to better understand what goes into growing the produce we use everyday, by not only cooking with it, but also by being a part the process from beginning to end. An Overview of Field Notes, NY How they started hosting these dinners What it means to be a chef How Joan and Kyle met What the setup looks like The Table: Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3 Let's Talk Food The Courses Seasonal Food Logistics Timing the Food Farm Kitchens Favorite Tools Outdoor Issues Decor When Two Chefs Host a Dinner Party What are you planning right now? J&K: the future of Field Notes Chrystina: The Blog Connect 2018 Jessica: dinner parties What's going on in your kitchen? Jessica: sauerkraut and kimchi J&K: braising stuff and stews Chrystina: getting rid of beer How are you staying in touch? Chrystina: thank you cards J&K: going to the market Jessica: she's not... What are you into right now? Jessica: the garden J&K: jarring and preserving and video games Chrystina: project 7 Moscow mule gummies Find us online: Field Notes, NY Facebook Instagram Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

During Episode 10 (double digits!) of Gatherings Podcast, Jessica and Chrystina talk about holiday traditions from Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve - and even touch on Valentine's Day. Chrystina's Annual Christmas Party Cookie swaps Getting rid of cookies Jessica's Month of Thanksgiving Slow food Friendsgivings Cinnamon Hot Cocoa Chrystina's Annual Mix CD Chrystina's Random Caroling Party Jessica's Family's Super Sundays Chrystina's Christmas Eve Traditions Jessica's New Year's Traditions What are you planning right now? Jessica: cookie party, brother's birthday, and January get-togethers Chrystina: another badass babes dinner What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina: artichokes Jessica: turkey dinners How are you staying in touch? Jessica: holiday cards Chrystina: also holiday cards What are you into right now? Chrystina: deva curl haircut Jessica: blog photography Find us online: Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

During Episode 9 of Gatherings Podcast we talk with Vicki Miller, the founder of Vinocity about wine pairing for the holidays. Actually, we start by asking about wines for the holiday and end up asking every question we've ever had about wine when it comes to party hosting. Just for you. (Alright, alright, and a little bit for us.) Vicki Miller is a long-time student and teacher of wine.  She was a practicing attorney in Philadelphia for 16 years at a major U.S. firm and has studied wine for over 20 years.  She is WSET Level 3 Wines & Spirits Certified. Five years ago Vicki founded Vinocity and began teaching about wine.  Vinocity plans and hosts wine tasting events for corporate clients, non-profit institutions, and associations, but with a unique approach.  Vinocity events combine the educational aspects of a wine course with the socially engaging aspects of a wine tasting with friends.  These events tell the rich story of wine, from the grapes, to technology, to the natural perils that challenge the winemaker.  Guests gain information they can use the next time they select a wine and a few stories they can tell at their next cocktail party.  Meet Vicki How she got started with wine Starting Vinocity  Wine for the Holidays Wine for Thanksgiving Pairing Wines: Red vs. White, Bold vs. Light "Middle of the Road" Wines All our Wine Questions Answered How much wine should I buy? How do I save open bottles of wine? Jess' weeknight Bolognese sauce recipe How do I pair wines with my menu? Should your wines be consistent through the meal? How much should you spend on wine? When should you take wine out of the fridge to serve? How do you chill wine really quickly? Are there any foods that you should avoid pairing with wine? What wines should you pair with spicy food? What's your favorite wine to bring to a party? More about Wine More about wine for the holidays More about sparkling wines New Year's What are you planning right now? Chrystina: A trip to Texas Vicki: A birthday dinner party! Jessica: Hunting season What's going on in your kitchen? Jessica: Cooking food from new cultures Vicki: Homemade hummus Chrystina: Cleaning up the pickle juice (literally) How are you staying in touch? Chrystina: Conference follow up emails Vicki: Phone calls with friends Jessica: Christening thank yous and Christmas cards What are you into right now? Jessica: Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown Vicki: New granddaughter and The Crown Chrystina: Project MC^2 Find Vicki online: Vinocity  Find us online: Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

During Episode 8 of Gatherings Podcast we talk with Plum Deluxe founder and creator, Andy Hayes, about hosting tea parties, our favorite teas, thoughtful conversation starters, where to even begin when you're hosting a tea party, and many tea party logistics. You're definitely in for a treat! Andy Hayes is the founder and creator of Plum Deluxe.  When he's not blending teas or baking up something yummy in the kitchen, he's hiking in the hills around his home of Portland, Oregon. Our love of tea parties Meet Andy Starting Plum Deluxe A Discussion of Tea - Why Tea, the Tea Lifestyle, and Tea Culture Our Favorite Teas Andy: White Tea Jessica: Black Tea & Herbal Tea, Mindful Morning Chrystina: Rooibos & Chai Andy's Party Hosting Style & Moments That Matter Type: Relaxed Eclectic Food Bars Taco Parties Thoughtful Conversation Starters Where to Begin When Hosting a Tea Party The Intention The Tea Tea Party Logistics A Soup + Tea Pairing Brainstorm Sweet or Savory When to Brew the Tea Decor and 5 Unique Tea Party Centerpiece Ideas How Much Tea to Serve How to Offer Tea to Your Guests What are you planning right now? Jessica: Her son's Christening Andy: Couples nights Chrystina: Wine tasting dinner party What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina: Making peach jam Andy: Tomatoes, figs, and plums Jessica: Preserving, canning, blueberry thyme jam, ears of corn, tomatoes, jalapenos, zucchini bread, and more! How are you staying in touch? Jessica: Birth announcements Andy: Postcard swaps Chrystina: Flying to Nashville What are you into right now? Chrystina: Back into blogging and her new podcast Andy: Baking and pumpkin spice Jessica: Going through cookbooks Find Andy online: Plum Deluxe Tea Shop Newsletter Sign Up Find us online: Gatherings Podcast Facebook Twitter Chrystina Noel Sweet Love & Ginger

During Episode 7 of Gatherings Podcast we talk with Roaa Elgabrouny about hosting Sunday pancake parties. She's been hosting them for months, but it started long before then when she was inspired by her family's parties in Egypt. We learn a little bit about how parties in Egypt differ from those in the U.S., the strength that mothers have, and how hosting parties is all about the people. More about Roaa: My name is Roaa elgabrouny. I am an Egyptian international student at Drexel University. I am an avid globe wanderer, a rent-less nomad at heart, and a committed pacifist with strong humanitarian views. I believe in the power of knowledge. Knowing is the only irreversible act: you can love then hate, but you can never know then un-know. Nothing makes me more excited in life than meeting a new person. It’s the most enjoyable experience and it is what I live for. My goal is to meet as many humans around the world from different backgrounds, as I believe that this is the best way to grow my personality and open my mind. I see humanity as a piece of art where every single dot of paint is equally important for the entire picture. Everything and everyone is interconnected through an invisible web of stories. Whether we are aware of it or not, we are all in a silent conversation. So it's super clear to see why we interviewed her for this episode - a true party planner and people person. Meet Roaa Background How she got interested in hosting parties Sunday pancakes Differences between Parties in Egypt and Parties in the U.S. Favorite foods Pancake Breakfasts How to prepare Handling other people in the kitchen Keeping food warm Egyptian breakfasts Advice for Beginner Party Hosts Know your goals Decide the location Determine the atmosphere Making it feel like home Wash dishes right away Keep it simple You can never make everyone happy What are you planning right now? Chrystina: The Blog Connect 2018 Roaa: YouTube Channel Jessica: Family Vacation & Baby What's going on in your kitchen? Jessica: Herbs Roaa: Quinoa  Chrystina: Trying to use all the food How are you staying in touch? Chrystina: Coffee & breakfast dates Roaa: Celebrating Eid & first Sunday pancakes after Ramadan Jessica: Inviting people over What are you into right now? Jessica: Automatic chicken door Roaa: Traveling Chrystina: Spring cleaning Find us online: Gatherings Podcast Website Facebook Twitter Chrystina Blog Twitter Pinterest Jessica Blog Twitter Instagram Pinterest

During Episode 6 we talk with Miranda from Spooky Little Halloween about her annual Halloween party, Halloweenie Roast, how she comes up with her themes, how she incorporates that theme through the decor, and the best place to shop for supplies. Also, don't miss our discussions about craft stores, wolf pack emails, watermelon pumpkins, and grilling in the questions at the end of the episode.   Miranda Enzor is the writer and Halloween lover behind spookylittlehalloween.com, the blog dedicated to celebrating October 31st all year long. Halloween has been one of her favorite holidays to celebrate for as long as she can remember. Miranda also host an annual party called Halloweenie Roast and teaches fellow Halloween lovers how to host killer parties through her e-course, Killer Halloween Party. Meet Miranda Blog: Spooky Little Halloween Blog: The Good Groupie Shop: Society6 Miranda Guest Posts How to Host a 1920s Party Part 1 How to Host a 1920s Party Part 2 An Introvert's Guide to Hosting Parties Background First interest in hosting parties Why she loves Halloween Halloweenie Roast Themes 2011: Masquerade 2012: Harry Potter  2013: Rocky Horror 2014: Día de los Muertos 2015: Witches' Ball 2016: Tim Burton 2017: Villains Themed Parties Halloweenie Roast Menu Decor Music Choosing Themes Invitations Halloween E-Course: Killer Halloween Party What are you planning right now? Chrystina: A Summer Bake-Off Miranda: Halloweenie Roast and Blog Content Jessica: Brother's Graduation What's going on in your kitchen? Jessica: Grilling Miranda: Bloody Mary Bar, Watermelon Pumpkins, and Pumpkin Juice Chrystina: Thai-Inspired Dinner Party How are you staying in touch? Chrystina: Wolf Pack Email Miranda: Postcards & Care Packages Jessica: Dinner Parties & Breakfasts What are you into right now? Jessica: The Encyclopedia of Spices Miranda: A Season with the Witch Chrystina: A.C. Moore Find us online: Miranda Spooky Little Halloween Blog E-course Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram Gatherings Podcast Website Facebook Twitter Chrystina Blog Twitter Pinterest Jessica Blog Twitter Instagram Pinterest

During Episode 5 we talk with Sara from Cake Over Steak about her favorite cookbooks - as well as how to plan a pizza crawl with your 25 closest friends. We asked her questions about logistics of planning a pizza crawl, who pays - and how they pay, how you keep people moving from location to location, and how to build the schedule for the day. Also, we apologize if you end up filling your Amazon cart full of cookbooks. (Sort of.)   Sara Cornelius is an artist who has combined her creative abilities with her love for home cooking into her illustrated food blog, Cake Over Steak. When she's not at her day job listening to hours of podcasts, she's dreaming up new recipes, testing them in her kitchen, photographing them, illustrating them, and then writing about them on her blog. In the rest of her spare time she enjoys working out (for #balance), reading, planning weird dinner parties and foodie excursions with her friends, and spending time with her husband and their socially awkward dog. Meet Sara Blog: Cake Over Steak Shop: Society6 Cookbook Using Techniques Cookbook Recommendations Top 5 Everyday from Sara Keys to the Kitchen by Aida Mollenkamp Fast Fresh and Green by Susie Middleton Love & Lemons by Jeanine Donofrio Love Real Food by Katheryne Taylor The Mad Hungry Books (Family, Cravings, Men & Boys) by Lucinda Scala Quinn Top Baking Cookbooks Vanilla Bean Baking Book by Sarah Kieffer The Modern Bake by Nick Malgieri Sarabeth's Bakery: From My Hands to Yours by Sarabeth Levine Favorite Potluck Recipes Sara Chocolate Chip Cookies Brownie Tiramisu Trifle Broccoli Salad with Maple Bacon and Caramelized Apple Vinaigrette Tina's Mom's Salad Jessica Jalapeno Poppers Pasta Salad Feast of St. Pizza Pizza Party Podcast on Heritage Radio Network Feast of St. Pizza: Philadelphia Feast of St. Pizza: Lebanon What are you planning right now? Sara: In-Law Visit Chrystina: Badass Babes Dinner Jessica: Baby! What's going on in your kitchen? Jessica: Meal Prep Sara: Pink Lady Apple Margaritas and Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes Chrystina: Salt Cellar in Portland, ME How are you staying in touch? Chrystina: Traveling Sara: Family Visiting Jessica: Shower Thank You Notes What are you into right now? Jessica: Baby Stuff Sara: Pizza Camp Chrystina: Try New Restaurants Find us online: Sara Cake Over Steak Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram Gatherings Podcast Website Facebook Twitter Chrystina Blog Twitter Pinterest Jessica Blog Twitter Instagram Pinterest

During Episode 4 we're chatting with Lizzie Post from the Emily Post Institute about party etiquette. We came prepared with all of our party questions and she was able to help provide insight, tips and tricks, and a few sample scripts along the way. We can't wait for you to check it out!   Lizzie Post, is the great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post and co-author of Emily Post’s Etiquette 19th edition as well as Emily Post’s Wedding Etiquette 6th edition and The Etiquette Advantage in Business 3rd edition. She and her cousin Daniel Post Senning are co-presidents of the Emily Post Institute as well as co-hosts of the Awesome Etiquette podcast, where they answer listener questions, and explore the topic of etiquette through the lens of consideration, respect and honesty. Lizzie does speaking engagements across the country sharing advice about entertaining, weddings, dating, dining etiquette, tech-etiquette, finance, and lifestyle. She has worked as a spokesperson for companies including Bob Evans, Bank of America, American Express Platinum, AirBnB, and Genentech. She is a columnist with Women’s Running magazine. Lizzie offers a fresh, relatable, perspective with an engaging voice. She delights in tackling etiquette’s taboo topics with the media, making her a popular source. Her interviews include NBC’s The Today Show, Katie, Fox & Friends, Live with Kelly and Michael, The Gayle King Show, The Wendy Williams Show, Slate, Vanity Fair, Time Magazine, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Chicago Tribune, Harper’s Bazaar, Travel & Leisure, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, The Huffington Post and more.  Meet Lizzie Emily Post Institute The Awesome Etiquette Podcast Emily Post's Etiquette, the 19th Edition Find the book here on Amazon Keeping etiquette relevant What makes the 19th Edition different Etiquette in the work place Our Etiquette Questions What is the number one most asked question about entertaining at home? What do you think it takes to be a great host? How do you recommend handling situations when there are people who don't know each other at parties? What is your go-to dish to bring to a potluck? Dumplings Artichoke Dip Roasted Red Pepper Dip: Roasted Red Pepper, Clove of Garlic 1-2 cans Chick Peas, Parmesan Cheese, Salt, Pepper Homemade Pita Chips Do you have any advice to deal with the battle of getting people to RSVP? Do you have any hard-and-fast rules that you always hold to when hosting a dinner party? Do you have any advice for being the center of attention at a baby shower? Do you have any housewear guilty pleasures? What are you planning right now? Jessica: Visiting friends Lizzie: Etiquette 19th edition launch, horses, golf, & home repairs Chrystina: Scheduling coffee dates with everyone What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina: New spice rack Lizzie: Keeping it clean & gifting banana bread recipes Jessica: Baking and foraging How are you staying in touch? Jessica: People are staying in touch with her Lizzie: Message bombing, Facebook messenger, and home visits Chrystina: Sending snail mail What are you into right now? Chrystina: Chai-Wallah's Spice with Rooibos Chai & Travel Journals Lizzie: Blow pops & Muji Jessica: Permaculture Find us online: Lizzie Emily Post Institute Emily Post Institute Facebook Page Awesome Etiquette Podcast Awesome Etiquette Facebook Page Twitter: www.twitter.com/LizzieAPost Gatherings Podcast Website Facebook Twitter Chrystina Blog Twitter Pinterest Jessica Blog Twitter Instagram Pinterest

During Episode 3 we're chatting with Lauren Caselli from Lauren Caselli Events about life stories, event planning, benefits of facilitation, and all the things.    Lauren Caselli is a strategic event marketer and facilitator that works with creative corporate and tech companies to help them build brand awareness through top-notch event experiences. In 2015, she founded the Boss Lady Bash, an event for creative female entrepreneurs starting their own businesses without taking big business loans. Selling out 7 times, the Boss Lady Bash is a premier example of how to create connection in an increasingly digital world, and is proof of the continuing value of in-person experiences. Meet Lauren Chrystina met Lauren at The Yellow Conference Lauren journeyed from New York City to Montana and started her own event company, Lauren Caselli Events Event Planning 101 "Events [are] about getting people together in a room, having face-to-face time with them, getting them away from their phones and away from their screens, and really engaging them in a conversation." - Lauren Caselli Using food as a gathering tool Cocktail plates with wine holders Event Planning 201 Lauren's craziest wedding planning story How Lauren started her event planning business Experience curation Boss Lady Bashes What are you planning right now? Lauren: Boss Lady Bash, Birthday Party Chrystina: The Blog Connect, Murder Mystery, Tea Party Jessica: Husband's Birthday What's going on in your kitchen? Chrystina bought a rolling free-standing spice rack. Lauren is buying in bulk. Jessica is getting ready for spring. How are you staying in touch? Jessica is planning dinner parties. Lauren is planning breakfast dates. Chrystina is sending birthday cards and scheduling phone calls. What are you working on right now? Chrystina: The Blog Connect Lauren: Hiring an Associate Event Planner Jessica: The Gatherings Podcast & a chicken coop What are you loving right now? Jessica has been reading about permaculture design. Lauren is watching The Americans and is learning more about investing for women. Chrystina is composting with help from Bennett Compost. Find us online: Lauren Blog: www.laurencaselli.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/lcasellievents 12 Steps to Sold Out Events How to Create Your Own Mastermind Grow Your Tribe Worksheet Chrystina Blog: www.chrystinanoel.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrystinanoel Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/chrystinanoel Jessica Blog: www.sweetloveandginger.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/sweetloveginger Instagram: http://instagram.com/sweetloveginger Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/gingerandlove

Our Ideal Dinner Parties Chrystina: indoors, 6 people, one cop out course, no decorations. Jessica: outdoors, +6 people, fire, live music, potluck, dessert cop out. Our Dinner Party Rules Chrystina: be super detailed on the invitation to tell your guests what to expect, what to bring, what to wear, and a general understanding of the menu - and don't forget to offer your guests a hot cup of tea before the night is out! Jessica: make sure there's something for everyone, always have a salad course How to keep the conversation going Other things: Chrystina only made it 16 days on the Whole30. Jessica tells a story about Chauncy's blackout juice. Jessica is answering questions about her baby shower. Jessica got baby chicks. Chrystina tries to figure out how to store tea. Everyone's spring cleaning. Sign up for Jessica's newsletter to get her cookbook. Jessica’s Loving: Organizing Chrystina's Loving: Reading: Strength Finders 2.0 Listening to: Ed Sheeran's new album Watching: 30 Rock, Chef's Table

Who we are and how we met Chrystina’s Blog: Chrystina Noel Jessica’s Blog: Sweet Love and Ginger PHLbloggers Our Party Styles Chrystina: The Type-A planner. Jessica: The spontaneous one. Why we started this podcast Manicured Pinterest tablescapes drive us crazy. There is almost no purpose in printing menus. The point is to be with people and not be perfect. Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt Pie Vegan Cauliflower Fettuccine Alfredo by Oh She Glows The Blog Connect Conference Chrystina’s Loving: Reading: Adam Grant’s book, Give and Take; Kelsey Crowe & Emily McDowell’s book, There Is No Good Card For This Listening to: Moana Soundtrak Jessica’s Loving: Reading: Toby Hemenway’s book, Gaia’s Garden; Shaye Elliot’s book, Welcome to the Farm Listening to: Halsey