Join Michelle and her husband Darren in this heartwarming episode as they dive into the tradition of Steak & Wine Nights. Celebrating 15 years of this weekly ritual, they reveal how it all began, how they keep it going, and the joy it brings into their lives. In a candid and light-hearted conversation, Darren shares his journey from an avid sportsman to a cocktail connoisseur, discussing favorite drinks, memorable dinners, and the importance of prioritizing connection over perfection. Whether you’re looking for hosting inspiration or tips on making the perfect steak, this episode has it all!

00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
01:51 Favorite Drinks and Places
05:12 Steak and Wine Night Tradition
05:55 The Origin of Steak and Wine Night
09:12 Evolving the Tradition
09:54 Hosting Philosophy: Connection vs. Perfection
21:02 Entertainment: Perfectionist or Connection?
22:03 Behind the Scenes of a Steak and Wine Night
23:38 The Perfect Steak: Tips and Tricks
25:02 Food and Wine Pairing: Perfection or Connection?
27:44 Memorable Steak and Wine Nights
31:31 The Challenges of Hosting
34:30 Adapting to Different Spaces
36:45 The Importance of Connection Over Perfection

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In this episode of 'Suppers and Soirees,' host Michelle Mize, founder of Sun Cookery, welcomes special guest Janon German, a real estate professional from Charleston and a great friend. 

Together, they explore the essence of hosting, both at home and professionally in real estate, emphasizing the importance of connection over perfection. Janon shares her personal and professional experiences in hosting, her love for cooking, and a special mother-daughter tradition of hosting Mother's Day brunches. With insights on how to create inviting spaces and personalized events, whether through Canva invites or unique menu selections, the conversation dives deeply into the art of making guests feel truly welcome. 

Michelle and Janon also reflect on their own experiences co-hosting a successful business event, showcasing the importance of authenticity and connection in every hosting scenario.

Janon's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janongerman_realtor/

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Here's a podcast episode description for "Queen of Hearts" from Suppers & Soirees:

This heartwarming episode features host Michelle Mize and special guest Ashton, who shares the story of planning a memorable Queen of Hearts-themed dinner party for her 12-year-old daughter. From creative decor using playing cards and paper hearts to a five-course meal served by candlelight, Ashton demonstrates how thoughtful hosting can create meaningful connections - even when the oven breaks down! The conversation explores how to adapt Pinterest inspiration into realistic party plans, tips for hosting tweens, and ways to balance perfectionism with practicality. The episode concludes with a discussion of how the Queen of Hearts theme can be reimagined for various occasions, from Galentine's celebrations to heart health awareness gatherings. Perfect for anyone looking to host with intention while keeping the focus on connection over perfection.

Key moments:

• Creative budget-friendly decor ideas
• Tips for hosting pre-teens
• How to handle hosting mishaps
• Transforming inspiration into realistic party plans

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Join Michelle Mize and special guest Maddie as they break down how to host the ultimate Taylor Swift-inspired soirée! After being inspired by the Eras Tour movie, these two party planning enthusiasts combined forces to create an unforgettable evening where each guest embodied a different Taylor Swift era.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How thoughtfully matching each guest to their perfect "era" created instant investment and excitement
• Creative ways to incorporate themed cocktails, decor, and personal touches
• Tips for balancing perfectionist planning with genuine connection
• Behind-the-scenes stories of what worked (and what they'd do differently!)

Plus, listeners get access to FREE Swiftie Soirée templates to host their own era-inspired gathering! Whether you're a longtime Swiftie or new to Taylor's music, this episode shows how themed gatherings can bring together unlikely groups and create lasting memories.

Tune in to learn how to host for connection, not perfection, and get inspired to plan your own magical evening! 🎵✨

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Join Michelle Mize, founder of Sun Cookery, and special guest Karen from Loop & Dash for an inspiring conversation about taking the stress out of hosting and entertaining at home. In this episode, they dive deep into practical solutions for one of the biggest hosting hurdles - food preparation. Karen shares her journey from cooking novice to meal planning expert, offering valuable insights on hosting gatherings of all sizes, from intimate family dinners to large group celebrations.

Discover simple yet effective hosting tips, including make-ahead meal strategies, cost-effective menu planning for groups, and how to balance perfection with connection when entertaining. Learn about Karen's "P's and C's" approach to hosting, from table settings to entertainment, and get expert advice on handling hosting mishaps with grace. Whether you're an experienced host or hesitant to entertain due to food preparation concerns, this episode offers actionable tips and encouragement for creating memorable gatherings.

Key topics include:

• Strategies for stress-free meal planning
• Budget-friendly entertaining ideas
• Tips for hosting large groups
• Make-ahead meal solutions
• Building connection through food and hospitality
• Modern approaches to Southern hospitality

Tune in for a warm, authentic conversation about bringing people together through food and hospitality.

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Hey y'all! On today's episode of Suppers & Soirees, my friend Betsy and I are tackling something that's close to both our hearts - those special December birthdays that often get lost in the holiday shuffle! As holiday babies ourselves, we're sharing real talk about how to make sure these celebrations don't get overshadowed by all the seasonal festivities. From hosting tips to make birthday folks feel extra special, to navigating the whole birthday-during-Christmas situation, we're diving into it all. We even get into a fun debate about party games (spoiler alert: Betsy's dad is definitely not a fan!). Whether you're a December baby yourself or love someone who is, this episode is packed with ideas to make sure everyone gets their moment to shine. Remember y'all, at Suppers & Soirees, we're all about hosting for connection, not perfection! Drop us a line and let us know how you celebrate those holiday birthdays - we'd love to hear your stories! 

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Join Michelle Mize, founder of Sun Cookery, as she unpacks three surprising lessons learned from her ultimate hosting inspiration, Martha Stewart. 

Moving beyond the pursuit of perfection, Michelle shares how Martha's influence shaped her approach to generous hospitality - from crafting pecan garlands with her grandfather to understanding the power of "always bringing cookies." Discover how to channel your own hosting inspiration while staying true to yourself, and learn why even Martha's occasionally flawed recipes can lead to inspiring every kind of host. 

This heartwarming episode reminds us that hosting is about connection, not perfection, especially during the hectic holiday season. Plus, get a sneak peek at next week's special guest who will share what it's like having a birthday on December 25th.

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What's the proper etiquette for bringing a host gift? Michelle tackles this timely topic just as we enter the holiday hosting season. From common misconceptions about bringing wine to creative alternatives under $10, discover thoughtful ways to show appreciation to your hosts. Learn what to avoid (goodbye, random bottles of wine!), when exceptions apply, and how to build your own "gift drawer" for last-minute gatherings. Whether you're the host or the guest, this episode offers fresh perspectives on reviving the lost art of host gifts while keeping the focus on genuine gratitude. 

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Welcome to Suppers and Soirées - where we're reviving the lost art of hospitality, one gathering at a time. Join Michelle Mize, founder of Sun Cookery, as she unpacks what it truly means to host for connection, not perfection.

In our weekly episodes, we'll challenge the modern barriers to hosting - from imperfect homes to cooking anxieties - and rediscover the simple joy of gathering. Michelle brings her unique perspective from decades of experience, from running her first party planning business in the '90s to creating destination experiences in Seattle, and ultimately founding Sun Cookery, a company dedicated to making hosting accessible and joyful for everyone.

This isn't about Pinterest-perfect tablescapes or Instagram-worthy spreads. It's about opening your door, offering a drink, and creating space for real conversation. Whether you're a seasoned host or someone who's never dared to invite people over, this podcast will give you the confidence, tools, and inspiration to create meaningful connections at home.

Each week, we'll explore different aspects of hosting through engaging conversations, practical tips, and real stories from guests who share their own hosting journeys. From casual coffee dates to dinner parties, backyard gatherings to holiday celebrations, we'll show you that true hospitality isn't about perfection - it's about generosity of spirit and creating space for authentic connection.

Join us as we explore what Michelle calls "generous hospitality" - the art of being unequivocally generous with your time, attention, and home. Because there's always room for one more at the table, and the best memories are made when we open our doors and hearts to others.

Listen weekly as we work together to bring back the joy of gathering, one episode at a time. Suppers and Soirées: where everyone's welcome and connection is always on the menu.

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