Podcast

The Sentimental Twist

Arts, Home & Garden, Leisure, Visual Arts

The Sentimental Twist is a weekly podcast where vintage decor meets heirloom recipes, and every conversation is steeped in Southern charm. Hosted by Brittany Shepard and Melissa Austin-Weeks – two friends from different generations with one shared love for meaningful spaces and gracious hospitality. You’ll hear inspiring stories, home styling tips, easy entertaining ideas, and reflections on creating a life (and home) filled with beauty, tradition, and heart. Whether you’re a sentimental soul, a vintage lover, or a curious hostess, you’re in good company here.

Home & Garden chart
#58
Episodes
42
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
1 hr 6 min
On air since
2025
Latest episode
1 month ago

Episodes

42 episodes, newest first

  1. Season 4 | Episode 10: Finale! Pull Up a Chair & Make Room for What Matters

    Season 4, Episode 10

    Show notes

    Summary

    It’s the Season 4 finale! Brittany and Melissa dream up the fall gatherings they’d actually want to attend,..from a Storykeepers Friendsgiving filled with dishes and stories to nostalgic outdoor movie nights under the stars. They swap fall hosting ideas, debate Trader Joe’s seasonal finds, and look back on favorite moments from The Sentimental Twist.

    During Porch Talk, they share the dishes their mothers made for company and reflect on the quiet lessons in hospitality they inherited from them. Then, a listener preparing to build a smaller home asks how to give a new house the character and warmth of an older one, inspiring plenty of ideas for creating a home that feels collected, cozy, and personal.

    Plus, Melissa shares her new Cottage Coaching offering, Brittany shares her exciting Cottages & Bungalows Ambassador opportunity, and they close Season 4 with a Toast to Sentiment about gatherings that don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful and making room at the table for what matters.

    Highlights:

    • Mama Dawn’s “Company Chicken” Recipe: Brittany shares her mother’s handwritten recipe and remembers the meal Dawn often served for special company. Get the recipe here: Mama Dawn's Company Chicken.pdf
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Cottage Coaching – Melissa’s new one-on-one hosting mentorship designed to help women build confidence, solve hosting dilemmas, and open their homes more often. Learn more at http://www.homewithatwist.com
    • Brittany’s Bless It: Vote for Brittany! – Brittany is officially a Top 4 finalist in the Cottages & Bungalows Magazine 2027 Brand Ambassador search! Vote for Brittany through October 5…
    https://www.cottagesandbungalowsmag.com/2027-brand-ambassador-vote/

    Takeaways

    • The best gathering isn’t necessarily the most elaborate one—it’s the gathering you and your guests will genuinely enjoy.
    • Give guests an easy way to contribute. A favorite movie candy, potluck dish, or recipe with a story can make entertaining easier while helping everyone feel part of the gathering.
    • Build sentiment into the details. Childhood-photo place cards, meaningful dishes, vintage glassware, family recipes, and other personal touches turn a gathering into an experience that tells a story.
    • Hospitality is often something we inherit by watching. The way our mothers and grandmothers welcomed, fed, and cared for people can become a kind of “silent lesson” we carry into our own homes.
    • A new home can still have character. Thoughtful millwork, warm flooring, furniture-style cabinetry, built-ins, solid doors, layered textiles, ambient lighting, defined rooms, and collected furnishings can make a newer house feel personal and lived-in.
    • Think about how you actually live when designing a home—from where morning light falls to where lamps need outlets and how guests will move through the space.
    • Meaningful hospitality isn’t about perfection. People remember how they felt, the stories shared around the table, the laughter that lingered, and the feeling that there was a place for them.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:05 Welcome to Season 4, Episode 10: The Finale!

    03:09 Fall Gatherings: Creating Meaningful Connections

    17:05 Trader Joe's Fall Haul

    21:25 Pumpkin Everything: A Seasonal Debate

    25:45 Porch Talk Speed Round

    37:59 Reader Email: Making a Newly-Built Home Cozy

    48:27 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    56:00 Finale Toast to Sentiment

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 1 min
  2. Season 4 | Episode 9: Fall Trends or Timeless Style? + Culinary Jump Scares

    Season 4, Episode 9

    Show notes

    Summary

    Fall is officially here, and Brittany and Melissa are diving into what’s trending, what’s timeless, and what absolutely should have stayed in a 1960s cookbook.

    They share listener stories inspired by the Hagerty sisters and draw the silver care giveaway winner before heading down the fall internet rabbit hole for Try It or Pass It. They debate on what the interenet says is trendy for fall and decide whether they’ll try or pass.

    Then Porch Talk takes a less appetizing turn with some truly questionable vintage recipes involving tuna, ham, bananas, ketchup, and entirely too much Jell-O.

    They wrap up with a few things they’re loving, Brittany’s Storykeeper’s Guide to Meaningful Gift Giving, and a reminder from Martha Stewart that good hospitality is ultimately about making guests feel welcomed, loved, and cared for.

    Highlights:

    • Brittany’s Bless It: The Storykeeper’s Guide to Meaningful Gift Giving
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Modern Grace & Co.
    • The Martha Way: Essential Principles for Mastering Home and Livingby Martha Stewart
    • Vote for Brittany for Cottages & Bungalows Magazine’s 2027 Brand Ambassador https://www.cottagesandbungalowsmag.com/2027-brand-ambassador-details/?brand=brittany-shepard

    Takeaways

    • A collected home will always feel more personal than a purchased “look.”
    • Trends are most useful when they help you lean further into what you already love.
    • Hosting doesn’t have to mean a formal dinner party.
    • If paper plates make the difference between gathering and not gathering, use the paper plates.
    • Coffee, dessert, soup, appetizers, or a simple “come over” are reason enough to open your door.
    • Hospitality is less about creating a perfect experience and more about creating connection.
    • Being a good host means being present with your guests—not spending the entire evening in the kitchen.
    • Meaningful gifts begin with noticing the person, their story, and what matters to them.
    • Some vintage traditions deserve a comeback. Celery-flavored gelatin may not be one of them.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:05 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist Season 4, Episode 9!

    01:40 Reader Email!

    08:57 Hagerty Giveaway Announcement

    10:01 Exploring Fall Trends in Home Decor

    30:57 Porch Talk Speed Round: Vintage Recipe Edition

    42:10 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    47:04 A Toast to Sentiment: Martha Stewart's Hosting Wisdom

    51:05 Exciting Announcement: Brittany is Cottages and Bungalows Ambassador Finalist

    Send us Fan Mail

    51 min
  3. Season 4 | Episode 8: The House Has a Memory + Casserole Carol's Legacy

    Season 4, Episode 8

    Show notes

    Summary

    What makes a house remember?

    In this episode, Brittany and Melissa explore how the objects we use, display, and bring out year after year become memory markers in the living story of home. Brittany shares why familiar platters, recipe cards, quilts, candleholders, and seasonal treasures matter—not because they are trendy, but because repetition turns them into tradition and connects the past, present, and future.

    They also answer listener Teresa’s questions about finding quality taper and pillar candles, including how to shop by diameter, keep tapers standing straight, choose candles for the dinner table, and remove spilled wax.

    Melissa celebrates listener Beth Reeves and the newly published Southern Living story honoring her mother, Carol Barclay—better known as “Casserole Carol, ”whose recipes appeared in the magazine for decades.

    Brittany offers a simple storykeeping challenge: choose one meaningful object, photograph it, write down where it came from and why you keep it, and share the story while the people who love it can still hear it.

    Highlights:

    • The Legacy of Casserole Carol in Southern Living
    • Candle Ideas

    • Colonial Candle Classic Tapers
    • Root Candles Dipped Tapers
    • Colonial Williamsburg Bayberry Candles

    • The Storykeeper’s Shelf

    • Story Cards Bundle
    • Tell Me Its Story Guide

    • Brittany’s Bless It: Ember Mug
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Five-Year Journal

    Takeaways

    • A home becomes a living story through the objects, rituals, and memories repeated within it.
    • Seasonal objects become memory markers when we bring them out year after year. Repetition is often how an unintentional tradition begins.
    • Decorating for a season is different from bringing memory into a season. A meaningful platter, painting, recipe, or figurine can carry more emotional weight than newly purchased, trend-driven decor.
    • Buy seasonal pieces because they speak to your heart and can become part of your home—not simply because the retail industry says they are current.
    • Shop for taper candles by the diameter of the candlestick opening, not by the word “taper” alone. Many traditional holders take a 7/8-inch base.
    • To steady a taper, try melting the base into the holder, using gallery putty, or wrapping a wide rubber band around the bottom.
    • Unscented candles are often the best choice at the dinner table so the fragrance does not compete with the food or bother sensitive guests.
    • Stories do not preserve themselves. Photographing an object and writing down its origin, memories, and meaning gives future generations more than an item—it gives them context.
    • Storykeeping is continuity. It connects what we inherited, how we live with it now, and what we choose to carry forward.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:05 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist Season 4, Episode 8

    00:06 Seasonal Changes and Personal Updates

    04:13 Reader Mail: Candle Tips!

    14:41 Reader Email: Souther Living Celebrity Casserole Carol's Daughter is Our Listener!

    21:07 The House Has Memory: Home as a Living Story

    32:17 Storykeeping Homework Assignment!

    39:46 Porch Talk Speed Round: Quickfire Questions

    50:37 Bless It, I Had to Share It

    55:59 Toast to Sentiment: The Heart of Storykeeping

    Send us Fan Mail

    59 min
  4. Season 4 | Episode 7: The Stories in Our Silver with Hagerty USA

    Season 4, Episode 7

    Show notes

    Summary

    What does it really mean to care for the things we inherit? In this episode, Brittany and Melissa share a listener email about savoring summer, documenting the stories behind meaningful belongings, and making time to listen while loved ones are still here. During Porch Talk, they swap stories about habits inherited from their mothers, their most delightfully “old lady” tendencies, and the ordinary objects that hold extraordinary meaning.

    Then Melissa sits down with fifth-generation family members Dawn Hagerty and Dianna Leinen of Hagerty to explore the story behind one of the most trusted names in silver care. They share how their great-great-grandfather created Hagerty Silver Foam in 1895, how family traditions preserved the company’s history, and why caring for silver is really about caring for the memories connected to it.

    They also answer common silver-care questions, including how to distinguish sterling from silver plate, which products to use, how to store silver, and which cleaning methods can cause permanent damage. Plus, Melissa shares an organizing event and nostalgic new venture, Brittany introduces her newest Storykeeper resource, and the episode closes with a toast to the things that carry our stories.

    Highlights:

    • Guests: Diana & Dawn from HagertyUSA

    • Follow Hagerty on Instagram:@hagertycare
    • Find a retailer:Where to Buy Hagerty Products

    • Brittany’s Birmingham Event Reconnection:Rahab’s Rope
    • Beautiful Table Settings Bash in Vicksburg
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Get Organized HQ Virtual 2026 (Get the All Access Pass for freebies and recordings)
    • Brittany’s Bless It:Seasons of Story: A Storykeeper’s Guide to the Rituals of Home

    ***Hagerty Silver Care Kit Giveaway:

    • Email thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com with your name, address, and a short story explaining why you would love the kit or what silver means to you.

    Takeaways

    • Savor each season, document meaningful belongings and family stories, and make time to listen while loved ones are still here.
    • Ordinary objects become precious through the stories, relationships, and memories attached to them.
    • Family history survives when people gather, share stories, write them down, and intentionally pass them along.
    • Hagerty began in 1895 when William Joseph Hagerty created a faster, easier way to polish the family silver.
    • Sterling silver is generally marked “925,” while silver plate may still hold value because of its maker, craftsmanship, provenance, or sentimental history.
    • Use the right silver-care products and tools: Hagerty Silver Foam is a helpful starting point, while tarnish-preventive polish and a soft horsehair brush can protect frequently used or intricate pieces.
    • Avoid damaging cleaning methods and storage: skip baking soda, aluminum foil, vinegar, boiling water, toothbrushes, dishwashers, and plastic wrap; instead, store silver in breathable, tarnish-preventive bags or cloth and use heirlooms often so their stories continue.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:05 Welcome to Season 4, Episode 7 of The Sentimental Twist!

    07:39 Reader Email: Slowing Down & Becoming a Storykeeper

    11:02 Porch Talk Speed Round: Quickfire Questions

    32:19 Guest Interview: Dawn & Diana Hagerty of Hagerty Silver USA

    33:21 Guest Interview: Dawn and Dianna from Hagerty USA

    33:21 The Legacy of Haggerty Silver

    01:19:56 Silver Care Set Giveaway from Hagerty!

    01:22:26 Bless It, I Had to Share It

    01:32:35 Toast to Sentiment: Something About an Heirloom

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 35 min
  5. Season 4 | Episode 6: Collecting a Timeless Home with Guest Erica Vevurka from Dogwood Interiors

    Season 4, Episode 6

    Show notes

    Summary

    What makes a home feel like yours? In this episode, Brittany and Melissa share a sweet listener email and get a little sentimental during Porch Talk, reflecting on how home changes over the years, what their mothers taught them, and the clothes that still feel like a hug from someone they love.

    Brittany sits down with Erica from Dogwood Interiors to talk about the joy of vintage and antiques, why younger generations are drawn to old things, and how to discover your own decorating style. Erica shares four elements she looks for in every room, advice for beginning a collection, and the story of a china cabinet she became the next caretaker of.

    Plus, we’re sharing cake-themed table linens, a colorful necklace find, and a toast to the comfort of home. It’s a conversation about collecting what you love, using what you treasure, and letting your home tell your story.

    Highlights:

    • Guest: Erica from Dogwood Interiors —https://dogwoodinteriors.co/

    • Follow Dogwood Interiors on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/dogwoodinteriors/

    • Lisa’s Fragrance Recommendation:Bewilderment https://bewilderment.com/ (her favorite scent is Simmer Pot)
    • Content Repurposing Tool:https://repurpose.io?fpr=739592http://repurpose.io https://repurpose.io?fpr=739592
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Lesley Evers cake-print napkins and placemats

    • Placemats: https://lesleyevers.com/collections/cakes/products/placemats-set-of-4-cakes
    • Napkins: https://lesleyevers.com/collections/cakes/products/napkins-set-of-4-cakes

    • Brittany’s Bless It: Colorful beaded necklace from Amazon https://rivr.link/tSd-QA_BUZ
    • Meme’s boutique in Perry, Georgiahttps://http://memesperry.com/
    • Picture-Hanging Reel: The measuring-versus-eyeballing debate https://www.tiktok.com/@cindymchor/video/7230058198672117034

    Takeaways

    • What home means to us can change with each season of life.
    • Comfortable guests don’t need to be entertained every minute.
    • Our mothers’ everyday ways of making a home can become part of our own.
    • Vintage finds can connect us to the past while giving us something well-made to enjoy today.
    • You don’t have to inherit an heirloom. You can adopt them and become their next caretaker.
    • Shopping vintage helps you discover what you love beyond what’s currently on trend.
    • Start small, explore, and give your taste room to evolve.
    • Try Erica’s four room essentials: something warm, something from nature, something porcelain or ceramic, and something shiny. Then add art that speaks to you.
    • Use and display treasured pieces now, even if you give them a different purpose.
    • Whatever the day brings, home can offer comfort, peace, and a place to rest.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:05 Welcome to Season 4, Episode 6 of The Sentimental Twist!

    00:05 Home and Personal Connections

    02:15 Listener Email: LIsa's Memories of Mott's

    06:31 Porch Talk Speed Round

    21:01 Guest Interview with Erica Vevurka of Dogwood Interiors

    59:49 Bless It, I Had to Share It

    01:05:54 Toast to Sentiment: No Matter What Happens

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 9 min
  6. Season 4 | Episode 5: Recipes are Heirlooms, Too, with Guest Sarah Peterson

    Season 4, Episode 5

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Brittany and Melissa read a sweet listener note, debate everything from mayonnaise brands to overrated foods during Porch Talk, and share a few things they’re loving right now.

    Brittany sits down with Sarah Peterson, author of Dish and Tell: Recipes from the Heart and creator of Vintage Dish & Tell, to talk about why family recipes deserve a place alongside our photographs, letters, dishes, and other treasured heirlooms. Sarah shares how her love of vintage, storytelling, and tried-and-true recipes grew into a passion for preserving not only the dishes families make, but the people and memories behind them.

    It’s a conversation about gathering around the table, asking the questions now, and remembering that recipes are more than instructions for making food. They’re heirlooms that connect us to the people and places that made us who we are.

    Highlights:

    • Guest Sarah Peterson of Vintage Dish & Tell: https://vintagedishandtell.com/

    • Instagram: @VintageDishandTell https://www.instagram.com/vintagedishandtell
    • Dish and Tell: Recipes from the Heart https://rivr.link/tSd-BU6Ufj
    • Sarah’s Substack/Newsletter https://vintagedishandtell.substack.com/

    • Melissa’s Bless It: Swedish Candy Culture https://swedishcandyculture.com/
    • Brittany’s Bless It: Amaryllis & Caladium Bulb Company https://www.amaryllisandcaladiums.com/
    • Vintage Southern Living at Home Thermal Carafe on eBay https://on.ltk.com/+EUu2I1fBraq8D5o4iYdyXA

    Takeaways

    • Recipes are heirlooms, too.
    • Don’t wait to ask for the recipe—or the story behind it.
    • Start small: preserving one meaningful recipe is enough.
    • Whenever possible, make the recipe alongside its “keeper.”
    • Write down the little details that never make it onto the recipe card.
    • Take photos, record video, and date the day you learned the recipe.
    • A lost recipe doesn’t have to mean a lost tradition.
    • Recipes can bring people we’ve lost back to the table.
    • Gathering around familiar foods gives younger generations a way to know the people who came before them.
    • The best family recipes are about far more than what’s on the plate.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:05 Welcome to Episode 5 of Season 4 of The Sentimental Twist!

    08:06 Reader Email from Lynn!

    14:06 Porch Talk Speed Round

    31:24 Introducing Sarah Peterson: Dish and Tell

    01:11:04 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    01:16:00 A Toast to Sentiment

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 19 min
  7. Season 4 | Episode 4: The Joy of Handwritten Letters Guest Interview with Shannon Howard

    Season 4, Episode 4

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Brittany and Melissa talk about the seasons we’re in...on the calendar and in life. A listener email reminds us that every season has a purpose, even the hard ones. Then Melissa talks with Shannon Howard, founder of Dear & Always and Heirloom Letters Studio, about preserving the stories through handwritten letters. Shannon explains how these letters can become heirlooms and how to get started simply. It’s a conversation about slowing down, writing things down, and recognizing that the stories we leave behind matter.

    Highlights:

    • Guest: Shannon Howard

    • Dear & Always:https://www.dearandalways.com
    • Heirloom Letters Studio:https://www.heirloomlettersstudio.com
    • Instagram: @dearandalways https://www.instagram.com/dearandalways/
    • Instagram: @heirloomlettersstudio https://www.instagram.com/heirloomlettersstudio/

    • Melissa's Bless It: Friday Finds Vintage https://www.instagram.com/fridayfindsvintage/
    • Melissa's Bless It: Beautiful Table Settings Bash in Vicksburg, Mississippi — Brittany and Melissa will both be speaking in January! https://www.btsvicksburgbash.com
    • Brittany's Bless It: Beehive Meals freezer-to-slow-cooker meal delivery athttps://www.beehivemeals.com

    Listener Giveaway: Shannon is gifting one listener a keepsake letter-writing system! Listen to the episode for details on how to enter!

    Takeaways

    • Every season has a purpose, even the ones we wouldn't choose.
    • The seasons of our lives deserve to be acknowledged, not rushed through.
    • An heirloom's story can be just as valuable as the object itself.
    • You don't have to document everything. Start with one meaningful object.
    • Handwritten letters can become heirlooms in their own right.
    • Don't assume the next generation knows the stories you've always known.
    • The words we write aren't only for someday; reflecting and writing them can be meaningful for us now, too.
    • Start with the story that matters most to you, not necessarily the most valuable thing you own.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters
    00:05 Welcome to Season 4, Episode 4 of The Sentimental Twist!

    03:27 Reader Email: Savoring Each Season

    13:14 Porch Talk Speed Round

    30:38 Guest Interview Shannon Howard from Dear & Always

    01:15:09 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    01:23:08 A Toast to Sentiment

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 26 min
  8. Season 4 | Episode 3: A 2nd Act for Dishes Guest Interview with Marieli from Tiers of Joy

    Season 4, Episode 3

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Brittany and Melissa answer a listener's question about making dinner parties easier when cooking the main course isn't your strength (spoiler: outsourcing absolutely counts!), take a nostalgic trip through childhood stores during Porch Talk, and share a few things they're loving right now.

    Melissa sits down with Marieli, founder of Tiers of Joy, whose beautiful tiered stands give vintage, new, and heirloom dishes a whole new purpose. Marieli shares how her business began, the care that goes into transforming treasured pieces, and why meaningful entertaining doesn't require a cabinet full of fine china.

    It's a conversation about using what you have, giving treasured things new life, and remembering that hospitality is less about having the “right” things and more about making room for beauty, story, and connection.

    Highlights:

    • Guest: Marieli Cruzado from Tiers of Joy

    • Instagram: @tiersofjoy.tx

    • Melissa’s Bless It: Southern Living Insiders
    • Brittany’s Bless It: The Storykeeper’s Shelf + Quiz
    • Renee from @lucybettynjune
    • Melissa’s Poppyseed Chicken Recipe
    • Alexandra Stoddard’s Daring to Be Yourself

    Takeaways

    • Hosting doesn't mean making everything yourself.
    • Time counts as an ingredient, too.
    • Old dishes can have a second act.
    • Beautiful entertaining can start with just a few pieces.
    • Use beautiful serveware beyond the table.
    • The stories behind our belongings are worth capturing now.
    • Create a home that “smiles” at you.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:05 Welcome to Episode 3 of Season 4 of TST!

    02:44 Reader Email: Entree Ideas When Hosting

    11:28 Porch Talk Speed Round

    25:18 Guest Interview: Marieli from Tiers of Joy!

    26:21 Guest Interview with Marieli from Tiers of Joy

    01:17:21 Takeaways from Marieli's Interview

    01:25:21 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    01:31:46 A Toast to Sentiment: Does Your Home Smile?

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 36 min
  9. Season 4 | Episode 2: The Art of Embracing Imperfection, Reviving Silver, and Preserving Family Recipes

    Season 4, Episode 2

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Brittany and Melissa discuss the soft launch into fall in their homes. They also explore how embracing the charm of aged silver and handwritten family recipes can make your home feel more personal and welcoming. They share practical tips for incorporating tarnished silver into everyday decor and transforming treasured recipes into meaningful heirlooms, all celebrating life’s beautiful imperfections.

    Cheers to the good old days being made today! Let's gather what’s meaningful, honor imperfections, and create stories worth passing down.

    Highlights:

    • Favorite Fall Home Fragrances:

    • Candle Bath & Body Works Leaves
    • Pura Welcome Home
    • Pura Sandalwood Vanilla
    • Happy Wax Melts Autumn Set
    • Candle NestFall Classics

    • Kelli’s Silver Guide on Instagram - Expert advice for caring for your silver
    • Brittany’s Bless It: Mama Dawn’s Creamed Corn “Recipe”

    • Ingredients

    • 1 pt shucked/creamed corn
    • Butter
    • Grease
    • 2 cups water
    • Salt

    • Instrutions

    • Put in oven with 2 cups of water to start off with. Add salt, grease, butter (keep soft). Cooks on 350° for 30-40 minutes.

    • Melissa’s Bless It: Personality Plates on Instagram - Adorable personality-themed dishware
    • Vintage Dish & Tell Book by Sarah Peterson - Inspiration for creating family recipe books ; Website: http://www.vintagedishandtell.com

    Takeaways:

    • The need to rush fall and simple ways to soft launch your home into the fall season
    • The cultural shift away from using silver daily and how to bring it back into your life
    • Simple ways to use mismatched or tarnished silver for decor and hospitality
    • Myths about tarnish and how to care for silver without stress
    • Creative ideas for turning family recipes into treasured keepsake cookbooks
    • How fragrances and seasonal transitions set the mood in home decor
    • Tips for hosting with charm and making guests feel truly welcome
    • Emotional value of handwritten recipes and family stories passed through food
    • Embracing today as the good old days
    • Don’t wait for perfect to start using heirloom silver; embrace the patina and charm
    • Document family recipes early, including stories and photos, to preserve legacy
    • Turn everyday moments into celebrations of love, tradition, and home

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters:

    00:05 Welcome to Season 4, Episode 2!

    04:01 The Soft Transition to Fall

    13:16 Porch Talk Speed Round

    26:30 What To Do With Silver Nobody Polishes Anymore

    35:08 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    42:17 Turning a Loved One’s Recipes Into a Cookbook

    55:46 A Toast to Sentiment: The Good Ole Days are Right Now

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr
  10. Season 4 | Episode 1: Welcome to TST Season 4 + Savoring Summer

    Season 4, Episode 1

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode of The Sentimental Twist, hosts Brittany and Melissa reconnect after a long break, sharing their experiences of meeting in person for the first time, discussing their summer adventures, and reflecting on the impact of social media on their friendship. In this engaging conversation, Brittany and Melissa share their summer experiences, from humorous mishaps with kitchen appliances to the joys of secondhand shopping. They discuss the importance of savoring the remaining summer days, exploring farmers markets, and creating memorable family traditions. They talk about the value of simple summer rituals, such as enjoying fresh produce and spending time by the pool, while also planning exciting activities to make the most of the season before it ends. Brittany and Melissa share various themes related to summer living, including quick tips for hosting, summer reading recommendations, and engaging with listeners about everyday rituals.

    Highlights:

    • Melissa's Homeworthy Home Tour
    • Brittany's Homeworthy Feature
    • Melissa's Bless It: In Good Taste Wines
    • Melissa'sHurry Up & Host Guide
    • Brittany's Bless It: Lavender Steam Eye Masks
    • Melissa's Bless It: Rustic Branch Tulip Tops
    • Email us at thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com with your favorite summer memory, a hosting question, or your favorite creamed corn or peach ice cream recipe!

    Takeaways

    • Summer rituals, like enjoying flowers and pool time, enhance the season's enjoyment.
    • Planning activities before school starts helps maximize summer fun.
    • Simple joys, like making homemade ice cream, are cherished summer traditions.
    • Engaging in seasonal activities fosters a deeper connection to the present.
    • Hosting doesn't have to be complicated; quick tips can save the day.
    • Seasonal living encourages us to appreciate the present.
    • Everyday rituals can make ordinary days feel special.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters
    00:05 Welcome to SEASON 4 of The Sentimental Twist

    03:31 Finally Meeting In Real Life

    12:15 Our Summers So Far

    24:33 Savoring Summer: Making the Most of Memories & Traditions

    31:24 Our Top 3 Summer To-Dos

    39:38 Summer Rituals: Simple Joys and Celebrations

    46:28 Porch Talk Speed Round

    55:42 Bless It, We Had to Share It: New Finds and Recommendations

    01:01:55 A Toast to Sentiment: Stop Wishing the Seasons Away

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 6 min
  11. BONUS Episode of The Sentimental Twist: When Internet Friends Meet IRL Bonus

    Season 3

    Show notes

    Summary

    We finally did it.

    After years of talking online through Instagram, texts, Zoom, and podcast recording, Brittany and Melissa finally meet in real life. And it was every bit as fun, funny, and heartwarming as you'd expect!

    In this bonus episode, we're sharing stories from our weekend together, from first hugs and home tours to good food, meaningful conversations, and all the little moments that made us feel like we'd been friends forever.

    Along the way, we chat about hospitality, making people feel at home, decorating with the things you love, and why authentic connection matters so much in a world that often stays behind a screen.

    Think of this episode as a cozy catch-up with friends. Pull up a chair and join us.

    Highlights:

    • Email us thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gamil.com!

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters
    00:00 Meeting in Real Life: A Special Episode

    03:03 The Journey of Friendship: From Online to Offline

    05:58 First Impressions and Surprises

    08:06 Culinary Adventures: Boiled Peanuts and More

    11:02 On Brand Moments: Hosting and Personal Touches

    13:59 Rapid Fire Questions: Getting to Know Each Other

    17:12 Current Obsessions: Gardening and Home Improvements

    36:00 Porch Talk: Melissa & Brittany Edition

    Send us Fan Mail

    58 min
  12. Season 3 | Episode 10: Finale + Modern Etiquette with Guest Lizzie Post from The Emily Post Institute

    Season 3, Episode 10

    Show notes

    Summary

    In the Season 3 Finale of The Sentimental Twist, hosts Melissa and Brittany share an interview with guest Lizzie Post, co-president of the Emily Post Institute. Lizzie talks about her great-grandmother’s legacy and shares timeless etiquette principles, modern adaptations, and practical tips for hosting and social interactions. The conversation leads to how consideration, respect, and honesty shape gracious behavior across generations and cultures. Melissa and Brittany also discuss their takeaways and personal stories, along with tips for being a gracious host and a gracious guest.

    Highlights:

    • Guest Lizzie Post

    • Emily Post Institute website
    • Instagram
    • Podcast Awesome Etiquette

    • Melissa’s Reality TV Show Debut: Netflix’s The Million Dollar Secret
    • Brittany’s Bless It: Janet’s Honeycomb Collection Waitlist
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Holidays Jewelry
    • Work with Brittany: Details Here
    • Email us thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com for a chance to win the Mind Your Manners game!

    Takeaways

    • The Emily Post Institute believes that modern etiquette considers both principles and manners
    • Principles of etiquette are consideration, respect, and honesty. They stand the test of time and can cross cultural boundaries.
    • Manners are time sensitive, vary from culture to culture, and can look different for different social groups. You have to learn the proper manners for the situations you are in.
    • Being a great guest means arriving with awareness, bringing positive energy, and engaging thoughtfully with others rather than simply showing up.
    • Being a great host requires quiet attentiveness like reading the room, guiding the flow, and anticipating needs without drawing attention to it.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:
    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to the Season 3 Finale of The Sentimental Twist!

    02:36 Guest Interview with Lizzie Post from The Emily Post Institute

    50:55 Unspoken Etiquette of Being a Guest

    56:38 Unspoken Etiquette of Being a Host

    01:07:34 Porch Talk Speed Round

    01:24:39 Reader Email: Hosting Challenges and Solutions

    01:33:52 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    01:43:31 A Toast to Sentiment: Hospitality

    01:45:33 Until next season...

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 48 min
  13. Season 3 | Episode 9: Hospitality as Caring for Others + Guest Interview with Lydia Menzies

    Season 3, Episode 9

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, hosts Melissa and Brittany share an interview with Lydia Menzies, a hospitality and hosting expert. Lydia shares her journey from childhood traditions to building a thriving Supper Club community. Discover practical tips for creating memorable gatherings, personalized touches, and the importance of hosting with intention. Lydia shares insights on creating memorable supper clubs, the power of storytelling through objects, and how to host with intention and care. Brittany and Melissa discuss takeaway from the interview, community building, and the importance of hospitality in everyday life.

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK***

    Highlights:

    • Guest Lydia Menzies:

    • website
    • Instagram
    • book
    • Supper Club membership

    • Melissa’s Reality TV Show Debut: Netflix’s The Million Dollar Secret
    • Brittany’s Bless It: The Heart-Shaped Tin book
    • Melissa’s Bless It: L’Oreal Infallible Finishing Spray
    • Work with Brittany: Brittany is now offering consulting for home and lifestyle creators who want to grow beyond social media and build a more sustainable, owned business. Details Here

    Takeaways

    • You can bring guests into your gathering by involving them in thoughtful ways and considering their needs, preferences, and season of life before they arrive.
    • The most meaningful gatherings are not about impressing your guests, but about helping them feel seen, included, and genuinely cared for.
    • Small, intentional details like a favorite dish, a kind note, or thoughtful seating often have a greater impact than one big, elaborate element.
    • Letting go of perfection allows you to create a more relaxed, welcoming environment where real connection can take center stage.
    • Creating a beautiful environment for others is worth the effort when it reflects love, care, and intention rather than a desire to impress.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome and Introduction

    38:53 Guest Interview: Lydia Menzies & The Supper Club

    40:58 Our Hosting Takeaways from Lydia's Interview

    50:17 Porch Talk Speed Round

    01:02:02 What's New with the Ladies of TST?

    01:17:27 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    01:22:26 A Toast to Sentiment: Hospitality & Caring for Others

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 26 min
  14. Season 3 | Episode 8: How to Create Meaningful Spaces without Buying New

    Season 3, Episode 8

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, hosts Melissa and Brittany explore the art of decorating with sentimentality, reimagining your home through storytelling, and the joy of shopping your own space. They talk about practical tips for refreshing your home without spending a dime and learn how to create meaningful moments with what you already have.

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK***

    Highlights:

    • Brittany’s Bless It: Rose Dawn Camellia Japonica from Nancy
    • The Storykeepers Circle
    • Melissa’s Digital Store
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Heirloom Roses
    • Alexandra Stoddard’s Living a Beautiful Life

    Takeaways

    • You can redecorate and redesign your home without shopping for new pieces.
    • Shopping your home for decor allows you to freshen spaces without spending a dime.
    • Creating a meaningful home is about showcasing your family stories through your decor.
    • Restyling and repurposing items is a great way to use meaningful things you don’t know what to do with.
    • Seasonal rotation is a fun way to freshen your home when it feels stale.
    • Think creatively when it comes to the organization of your seasons and everyday home decor.
    • Rituals and intentional living make life beautiful and meaningful.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist Season 3, Episode 8

    04:31 Meaningful Spaces: Decorate Your Home Without Buying New

    27:17 Porch Talk Speed Round

    41:25 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    45:05 A Toast to Sentiment: The Beauty of Everyday Rituals

    Send us Fan Mail

    50 min
  15. Season 3 | Episode 7: The Art of Letting Go + Guest Interview with Rachel from Happy Arranging

    Season 3, Episode 7

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, hosts Melissa and Brittany explore what it means to release sentimental items with intention instead of obligation. Through personal stories and practical guidance, they share how to navigate emotional attachments, let go of guilt, and honor your story without holding onto everything. Plus, guest Rachel Weizel from Happy Arranging, author of Trader Joe's Flowers, shares practical tips, creative ideas, and the story behind her beautiful bouquets, all under $35. Perfect for flower enthusiasts and home decorators alike.

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK***

    Highlights:

    • Guest Rachel Weizel from Happy Arranging and https://www.happyarranging.com/ .
    • Rachel Book: Trader Joe’s Flowers
    • Brittany’s Bless It: Clear the Sentimental Clutter: 5 Days to Help You Move One Item Out of Limbo

    Takeaways

    • When decorating with sentimental items, releasing things is sometimes just as important as keeping them. Your home needs space to reflect your life now, not just your past.
    • You can honor the story behind an item without keeping the item itself.
    • Holding onto things out of guilt or obligation often creates more weight than meaning.
    • It’s okay to move slowly when making decisions about sentimental pieces. There’s no need to rush.
    • Sometimes the most thoughtful decision is “not yet.” You can come back to it when you’re ready.
    • The hardest part of creating a meaningful home isn’t styling. It’s deciding what stays and what goes.
    • Whether you’re decorating or arranging flowers, there is no one “right way”—trust what you’re drawn to and let that guide you.
    • You can create stunning bouquets for under $35 using Trader Joe's flowers.
    • Experimenting with everyday items like cereal bowls and teacups can add charm to your arrangements.
    • Using chicken wire helps hold flowers in place and creates more elaborate designs.
    • Understanding color theory, especially the color wheel, enhances floral design.
    • Regularly snipping flower stems and removing leaves prolongs vase life.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters
    00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist Season 3, Episode 7!
    03:40 Sentimental Decorating: Letting Go with Intention
    18:21 Guest Interview with Rachel from Happy Arranging
    43:09 Porch Talk Speed Round
    58:11 Bless It, We Had to Share It!
    01:04:19 A Toast to Sentiment

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 9 min
  16. Season 3 | Episode 6: It's Gardening Season! + Guest Interview with Kelly Radcliff of Lazy Girls Garden Club

    Season 3, Episode 6

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Melissa and Brittany talk all things gardening and outdoor hosting! They discuss trading perfection for progress in the garden and learn why zinnias are the happiest shortcut to a generous flower season from guest Kelly Radcliffe of Lazy Girls Garden Club. Kelly also shares her gardening tips, favorite plants, and zone-smart planting basics.

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK:

    Highlights

    • Kelly Radcliff: Lazy Girls Garden Club on Instagram
    • Melissa’s Bless It: Burpee Seed Catalog and Martha Washington's Kitchen Garden Seeds via Burpees
    • Velveteen Rabbit Book
    • Brittany’s Bless It: Fresh Cut Paper:
    • Faux Boxwood Trellises at Lowe's

    Takeaways

    • There is joy in trial-and-error gardening, which is perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
    • Kelly, Melissa, and Brittany discuss how to create a relaxed, approachable garden that blooms with personality
    • There are easy ideas for charming outdoor entertaining, from garden parties to porch moments.
    • Kelly offers practical tips on timing planting, choosing the right plants for your zone, and garden maintenance.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist - Season 3, Episode 6!

    02:07 It's Gardening Season!

    08:51 Guest Interview Kelly from Lazy Girls Garden Club

    42:33 Porch Talk Speed Round

    51:34 Gracious Hospitality: Hosting in the Garden

    01:01:02 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    01:05:45 A Toast to Sentiment: The Velveteen Rabbit

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 11 min
  17. Season 3 | Episode 5: A Sentimental Easter + What Makes Something an Heirloom

    Season 3, Episode 5

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Melissa and Brittany explore rich traditions, sentimental stories, and creative ideas for celebrating Easter. From childhood memories to tablescaping tips, this episode is a heartfelt journey into the meaning behind our favorite Easter rituals. The hosts also discuss what makes objects and traditions “heirloom-worthy,” whether you have inherited pieces or not!

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK:***

    Highlights:

    • The Cake Mix Doctor Cookbook
    • Brittany’s Bless It – Shades for Rechargeable Lamps

    • Stripe
    • Chinoiserie

    • Melissa’s Bless It – Key Lime Shamrock Smash

    Takeaways

    • It is fun to reminisce on Easter traditions and memories and carry them forward in your own unique way.
    • When setting your Easter table, think creatively about adding in sentimental items with meaning to your pretty table decor.
    • Sentimental heirloom pieces are significant, whether you inherited them or collected them yourself.
    • You can adopt heirlooms from estate sales, vintage shops, thrift stores, and antique malls.
    • The things you use everyday and in special moments are shaping your legacy and are what create nostalgia for your loved ones.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist Season 3, Episode 5!

    03:14 Easter with a Sentimental Twist

    20:32 Sentimental Easter Tablescapes

    32:40 Porch Talk Speed Round

    42:11 Heirloom Worthy: Creating Sentimental Spaces

    51:13 Bless It, We Had to Share

    57:35 A Toast to Sentiment: Celebrating Sentiment and Legacy

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 2 min
  18. Season 3 | Episode 4: The Year of Whimsy & Prepping as a Hosting Strategy

    Season 3, Episode 4

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Melissa and Brittany explore the art of stress-free hosting by using prepping in advance as a strategy. The hosts talk about how planning ahead can transform your gatherings into relaxed, joyful experiences. They also explore the art of infusing everyday life with whimsy, nostalgia, and intentionality, as 2026 has been deemed “The Year of Whimsy.” From decorating tips to self-care rituals, this episode offers practical ideas to bring joy and sentiment into your daily routine.

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK***

    Highlights:

    • Melissa’s Hostess Journal on YouTube;
    • Awesome Etiquette Podcast episode
    • Pura Fragrance White Tea No. 1
    • Ina’s #1 Entertaining Hack
    • Ina’sMake Ahead Cookbook
    • Pulled Pork Nachos Recipes
    • Brittany’s Bless It – Creators to Follow:

    • Robin - MsThisNThat
    • Janet - The Midlife Joyride
    • Elise - Adorn Your Decor

    • Melissa’s Bless It – Faux Hydrangeas:
    • Real Simple’s Year of Whimsy

    Takeaways

    • Meal prep and planning ahead can be a strategy for stress-free hospitality.
    • 2026 is The Year of Whimsy! What does that mean for you?
    • Dopamine decorating is adding joyful colors, patterns, and personal touches into your home decor.
    • Nostalgic rituals have emotional benefits.
    • Analog activities and tech-free zones can create more grounded days.
    • Infuse daily rituals into your life to create joy.
    • How will you “hit the rewind button?”

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters
    00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist Season 3, Episode 4!

    04:13 Gracious Hospitality: Meal Prep as a Strategy for Hosting with Ease

    23:25 Porch Talk Speed Round

    37:37 The Year of Whimsy!

    51:34 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    57:18 Literary Lowdown: What We're Reading and Listening To

    01:06:33 A Toast to Sentiment: The Heart of Hospitality and Connection

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 11 min
  19. Season 3 | Episode 3: The Power of Small Gatherings

    Season 3, Episode 3

    Show notes

    Summary
    In this episode, Melissa and Brittany explore the art of intimate hosting, the benefits of smaller gatherings, and practical tips for effortless, meaningful entertaining. Discover how to create connection, reduce stress, and elevate your hospitality game with simple, elegant ideas for every season. Join Brittany and Melissa as they share practical tips, story-driven insights, and meaningful ways to celebrate the sentimentality in your space.

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK***

    Highlights:

    • 100 Recipes Every Woman Should Know (Cookbook)
    • Marry Me Chicken Menu (Full menu and recipes on page 245 of the cookbook)

    • One Whole Chicken
    • 3 Lemons and ½ cup lemon juice
    • Salt & pepper
    • Assorted herbs - rosemary, sage, thyme, and parsley
    • Spring greens with shaved parmesan
    • Warm bread
    • Strawberry shortcake or lemon icebox pie

    • Lemon Squares Recipe
    • @natsnourishments on Instagram

    • Cookbook wth Biscoff Banana Bread: https://rivr.link/tSd-SVoOip

    • @msthisnthat on Instagram for Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
    • Brittany’s Favorite Amazon Tulips
    • Kate BagleyCertified Photo Organizer:
    • Photo Myne App
    • The Storykeepers Circle

    Takeaways

    • There are unique benefits in hosting smaller groups.
    • Createing intimate and meaningful connections is an important part of hospitality.
    • What is the difference between hosting and hospitality?
    • It doesn’t take much creativity to create simple, elegant menus for small gatherings.
    • Different seasons support your introverted and extroverted personality dynamics.
    • It is important to create meaningful and cozy spaces in your home
    • Remembering and telling personal stories through family heirlooms creates a sense of groundedness.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:
    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist: Season 3, Episode 3

    04:28 Gracious Hospitality: Smaller Tables, Longer Conversations

    13:56 Gracious Hospitality: Menu Ideas for Intimate Gatherings

    29:12 Porch Talk Speed Round

    52:23 Winter vs. Summer: Personal Preferences

    52:50 Bless It, We Had to Share It

    59:44 A Toast to Sentiment: An Irish House Blessing

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 7 min
  20. Season 3 | Episode 2: Savory Girl Entertaining & Preserving Home Stories

    Season 3, Episode 2

    Show notes

    Summary

    In this episode, Brittany and Melissa delve into the “Savory Girl” entertaining trend and discuss how storytelling through heirlooms and sentimental items can deepen connections to home and loved ones. The episode explores building a supportive community for sharing life's seasons and offers practical tips for hosting with intention. Brittany and Melissa also share insights on integrating storytelling into home decor for future generations, the importance of rituals and routines for daily comfort, and practical ideas for spring cleaning and gardening. With engaging discussions on etiquette and decor tips, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration for living intentionally and meaningfully.

    What does nostalgic decor mean to you? How do you tell your family stories? Send us an email at thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com and join the conversation!

    ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK:

    https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc7mZe-PrtEErxG9S7NFtsJYScTBStS4phimBNo0NyBAijJfw/viewform?usp=publish-editor

    Highlights:

    • Better Homes & Gardens Savory Girl Entertaining Article
    • Cheese Board Deck by Meg Quinn
    • Mind Your Manners Card Game by Emily Post Institute:
    • Melissa’s Hosting Guide
    • Veggie & Savory Food Inspiration on Instagram - Courtney Cooks
    • Hatch Sunrise Alarm Clock - Amazon

    Takeaways:

    • Current trends in entertaining include the “Savory Girl" board, balancing bold flavors over sweets.
    • Simple boards and platters are fun and efficient ways to serve guests.
    • You can participate in the art of storytelling through heirlooms and sentimental items.
    • Building a supportive community for sharing home and life’s seasons is important.
    • It’s important to capture your home stories for future generations.
    • Rituals and routines enhance daily comfort.
    • It’s important to cherish every moment.

    Contact The Sentimental Twist:

    Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

    Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

    Follow the Co-Hosts:

    • Brittany: @brittanyshepardand http://www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
    • Melissa: @homewithatwistand http://www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

    Chapters

    00:00: Welcome to the Sentimental Twist

    02:23: Gracious Hospitality: Savory Girl Entertaining

    19:41: Porch Talk Speed Round

    36:56: The Storykeepers Circle: Building Community

    48:20: Bless It, We Had to Share It

    57:49: A Toast to Sentiment: Cherishing Life's Moments

    Send us Fan Mail

    1 hr 4 min