Dinner parties and grandma hobbies with guest Kenzie Elizabeth - Sunday Sports Club with Allison Kuch

Summary4 min read

Podcast Title: Sunday Sports Club with Allison Kuch
Episode Title: Dinner Parties and Grandma Hobbies with Guest Kenzie Elizabeth
Release Date: December 29, 2024
Host/Author: Dear Media

Introduction to Kenzie Elizabeth

In this episode of Sunday Sports Club, host Allison Kuch welcomes Kenzie Elizabeth, a lifestyle vlogger and founder of Friend of Mine, a brand catering to homebodies. Kenzie describes herself humorously as “an 80-year-old in a 26-year-old’s body,” a statement she updates to reflect her current age of 27. The conversation kicks off with Allison asking Kenzie about her unique self-description.

Notable Quote:
Allison (00:03): “Kenzie Elizabeth is the host of the podcast Houseguests, a lifestyle vlogger and founder of Friend of Mine, the dream brand for the homebody…”

Embracing Grandma Hobbies

The discussion delves into Kenzie’s affection for what she terms “grandma hobbies,” such as needlepoint and baking sourdough. Kenzie shares her upbringing, mentioning how her mother and grandmother owned a bedding and drapery company, which fostered her early interest in crafts. She emphasizes that these activities are not just nostalgic but serve as meaningful and rewarding pastimes.

Notable Quotes:
Kenzie (00:48): “Yeah, absolutely. … the grandma thing is just because I love a grandma hobby, I think that they're just onto something.”
Allison (04:24): “They actually had a resurgence around 2020. I wasn't there for that, but it made needlepoint very popular amongst millennials and Gen Z.”

Hobbies and Mental Health

Kenzie discusses how her hobbies act as a coping mechanism for anxiety and depression. Engaging in hands-on activities like needlepoint and cooking provides her with a meditative escape from the constant distraction of phone usage. She contrasts this with her past struggles with excessive drinking and the negative impact it had on her mental health.

Notable Quotes:
Kenzie (09:06): “I have like pretty bad anxiety. So I think that everything I do in life is to like, make me not anxious.”
Allison (02:17): “I had my first hangover like two weeks ago that I've had in like two years… I was like, I'm not built for this anymore.”

Building Confidence and Identity Through Hobbies

The conversation highlights the importance of developing hobbies in one’s 20s as a means to build confidence and establish personal identity. Kenzie references Ed Mylett’s philosophy that confidence stems from making and keeping promises to oneself, which hobbies naturally facilitate by allowing individuals to master new skills and engage in fulfilling routines.

Notable Quotes:
Kenzie (13:40): “Confidence is built by making promises to yourself and keeping them. And I think the easiest way to do that is by creating routines.”
Allison (13:40): “It's less about finding yourself and more about creating yourself.”

Creating Community and Making Friends in Your 20s

Kenzie and Allison discuss strategies for making friends and building community, especially for those navigating their 20s. They suggest joining clubs related to one’s hobbies, attending influencer events, and leveraging online platforms to connect with like-minded individuals. Kenzie shares her experience with hosting stitch clubs and how it has helped her form meaningful connections despite dealing with social anxiety.

Notable Quotes:
Kenzie (15:54): “There’s something about making something with your hands that’s very meditative. It’s very therapeutic.”
Allison (17:21): “Especially postgrad, you almost have to treat making friends like a part-time job.”

Hosting Dinner Parties: Tips and Experiences

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to hosting dinner parties. Kenzie provides practical advice on planning and executing successful gatherings. She emphasizes the importance of themes to guide the evening, making conversations flow, and ensuring guests feel comfortable. Kenzie shares personal anecdotes about her favorite dinner parties, highlighting how intimate settings with the right crowd create memorable experiences.

Notable Quotes:
Kenzie (40:00): “Must haves for throwing a dinner party. I think it means budgeting hacks, thrifting, and ensuring you have everything you need.”
Allison (42:03): “I'm trying to host something, but I don't know what I'm doing for New Year's, and I probably will host something.”

Rapid-Fire Questions: Personal Preferences

The episode concludes with a fun rapid-fire segment where Allison and Kenzie answer “this or that” questions, revealing their personal preferences and personalities.

Highlights:

Vintage jerseys or modern jerseys? Kenzie opts for rom-coms over reality shows.
Running a marathon or cheering on a friend? Both express support for friends undertaking challenges.
Awkward silences or talking over each other? Preference for comfortable silences.
Big night out or cozy night in? Both favor cozy nights in.

Conclusion

Kenzie Elizabeth brings a refreshing perspective to Sunday Sports Club by intertwining her love for traditional hobbies with modern-day community building and mental wellness. Her insights on embracing “grandma hobbies,” the therapeutic benefits of creative activities, and effective hosting provide valuable takeaways for listeners. The episode underscores the significance of intentional living and establishing meaningful connections through shared interests.

Final Notable Quote:
Allison (61:02): “I think this is the way to go. With that being said, it would be very hard because I'm very close to my extended family.”

Connect with Kenzie Elizabeth:

Podcast: Houseguests Podcast
YouTube: Kenzie Elizabeth on YouTube
Instagram: @KenzieElizabeth
TikTok: @KenzieElizabeth

Follow Sunday Sports Club:

This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions and insights while omitting advertisements and non-content segments. For a deeper dive, listening to the full episode is recommended.

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Transcript412 lines

[00:00]
A
The following podcast is a Dear Media production.
[00:03]
B
Kenzie Elizabeth is the host of the podcast Houseguests, a lifestyle vlogger and founder of Friend of Mine, the dream brand for the homebody. She is a self described 80 year old and a 26 year old's body. So Kenzie, tell me what it's like being an 80 year old in a 26 year old's body.
[00:19]
A
Well, we clearly. Actually, luckily we haven't updated that because I am now 27, so things have changed.
[00:25]
B
Okay, so how are you feeling now?
[00:28]
A
So I'm feeling quite good. I, I feel physically like I'm 27. Besides, I do have a couple. I have some back issues. I weightlift and I think it's coming from that.
[00:37]
B
I have back issues too. And it. You feel like it ages you.
[00:40]
A
Yes.
[00:40]
B
Yeah.
[00:40]
A
But do you think you have back problems for being a mother?
[00:43]
B
Yeah, absolutely.
[00:44]
A
That makes sense. I don't have a child.
[00:47]
B
Why do you have back issues?
[00:48]
A
Exactly. Yesterday I was thinking about it and I'm like, maybe it's my mattress. Like these are the riveting things that I have going on in my head. Yeah. The grandma thing is just because I love a grandma hobby, I think that they're just onto something. And if you think about it, they've been on this earth longer than anyone else. So if we should be listening to anyone about like finding peace, enjoyment, what you should spend your time doing, it's the grandmas. And I took note.
[01:12]
B
I think it's very mature of you to be like, oh, I love like baking sourdough. Or I like like all these other like quote unquote grandma activities. Because I'm kind of over the whole like going out and like getting shit faced and like waking up hungover and you know, their whole day is ruined. Like I would love to sit on the couch and like needlepoint and just watch a show and go to sleep. Yeah, I don't know how to do that.
[01:33]
A
That's what happened to me. I was going out and I was blacking out too much and I was hungover and miserable and I struggle with anxiety and depression already.
[01:41]
B
So, like, being hungover makes it worse.
[01:43]
A
Oh my God, like the spirals. And like, here's the pattern of my life since I was, you know, young and started drinking is that like, I would go like two years, have so much fun, and then just start having really bad hangovers and then realize like, I can't do this anymore. So I take a back seat and then it was just kind of like a cycle. I'd go back and I'd be okay for the first 18 months, and then I just kind of got bored. But also it was just making me really depressed and miserable as a person. So I went straight from like the jello shots to the like to need a point. Like, it happened. It did. Looking back, it did happen gradually, but it does feel like it was like an overnight shift. Cuz I think I finally had like my bad hangover. Like the last.
[02:18]
B
There's. There's one that like kind of hits you and you're thinking, okay, I'm never drinking again in my life.
[02:22]
A
I had my first hangover like two weeks ago that I've had in like two years. I mean, a long time. Like, I. Two years is maybe exaggerating, but like, I don't drink really that much anyways, and I don't drink enough to be hungover. And I sat in my bed and I. I didn't do anything embarrassing the night before. Right. I sat in my bed with the worst anxiety I've ever had, crying all day and throwing up. I was like, I'm not built for this anymore. I'm just simply not.
[02:44]
B
See, I haven't been hungover in two years for real, because pregnancy and then breastfeeding, so I really just haven't had the opportunity. And I'm going on a girls trip in the future and I'm like, oh, gosh, am I going to be hungover? Like, I don't know if I'm mentally prepared for that because tolerance goes down.
[02:58]
A
And like, you don't have what you. You don't have it anymore.
[03:00]
B
I'm about to turn 30, so I'm like, oh, like my body isn't going to react the same.
[03:04]
A
Yeah.
[03:05]
B
But I'm so excited to talk to you on the podcast about just like hosting and everything, because this is like a sports podcast, but I also feel like it's a podcast for people in their 20s. And I also think, like, you can host. There's a lot of hosting activities around football and sports, and so it's just like, really exciting to have you on. Thanks for having me.
[03:23]
A
I'm so excited.
[03:23]
B
Yeah. So how old were you when you started getting into, like, these hobbies that are a little bit like, I don't know, like, classified as older Grandma. Okay, I'm grandma. Yeah.
[03:32]
A
Okay. So it depends because, I mean, I just kind of group everything that I do as old.
[03:40]
B
Old.
[03:41]
A
Yeah, I would say, like needlepoint and stuff. That's definitely older. I was probably like 24, 25, but I grew Up. My mom and my grandma both had, well together. They had like a bedding and drapery company. So I would always go to like their shop and I would quote, work for them. Right. So I would like make little purses and I would quilt things with my grandma. And I'm very close to my grandma, so like, we do a lot of stuff together. So I've always been into things like that because I grew up in it, so it's not like the most shocking thing in the world. I got into needlepoint, which I would say is like the most grandma of them all.
[04:15]
B
Um, like, where do you even get needlepoint supplies? Like Amazon?
[04:18]
A
Well, you could, I guess, but there's a lot of like local. You know, I'm, I'm really well versed in the needlepoint community these days.
[04:24]
B
There's actually going to like the clubs, like everybody.
[04:27]
A
I literally host dish clubs. I'm not kidding. No, I'm like. And one thing about me that you should know is that I'm very 0 to 100. I don't like, Can I cuss here?
[04:34]
B
Just be sure.
[04:35]
A
I don't like half ass anything in my life. Like I'm so 0 to 100. But my grandma, who's. My grandma's a seamstress and my grandma, for her birthday like two years ago, wanted to, to needlepoint, like to learn how to needlepoint. So I got us a needlepoint class to do together, thinking it was gonna be her thing. And then I kind of took it over and like now she's back in it. But honestly, I'm sure your grandma, like.
[04:53]
B
Loves having you as a friend.
[04:54]
A
Oh, she. Oh, we're best friends. There's no one who gets me like her, you know?
[04:57]
B
Do you wanna go to scrapbooking class? Yeah, literally.
[05:00]
A
Her. She lives at. I always say she like lives in an old person's sorority home. She just lives in like an old person's apartment complex. But one of her friends, Sandy, who.
[05:07]
B
I think I'm sure she would love to hear that.
[05:09]
A
Well, I tell her that all the time. She's just like, okay. But like, Sandy taught her to garden. My grandma taught me to garden. It's like a whole thing. But I. Yeah, we took that class. But all that to say with needlepoint. They actually had a resurgence in around 2020. I wasn't there for that. But it made needlepoint very popular amongst like millennials and Gen Z. There's brands like Penny Lynn I think is a really big one that's like made it really big. So anyways, There's a lot of younger people who actually needlepoint now, just probably as a result of the pandemic.
[05:35]
B
Yeah.
[05:35]
A
It's not just me. You'd be shocked. There's a lot of young people.
[05:38]
B
So with all these, like, Krama activities, I feel like that's not a negative thing to say. I feel like it's a positive, like, grandma activity. Sounds very comforting.
[05:45]
A
Yeah.
[05:46]
B
Do you feel like it, like, affects your style?
[05:48]
A
Well, like.
[05:49]
B
Like, are you, like, cottage core?
[05:50]
A
No. Like, I'm like, look at me. I'm wearing overalls and a sweater. I. I actually dropped me off here, and I was like, I look like more of a mom than you. Like, yes, I think it's definitely affected my style.
[06:04]
B
I think it's cute. But also, like, I feel like you're not, like, wearing a crop top while you're making sourdough and, like, listening to or, like, watching Martha Stewart, but then again, you can.
[06:13]
A
I do. I think that, like, I actually do. I don't feel like I wear crop tops really anymore, but, like, not intentionally. It's not really because of the grandma stuff. I do think that. I think it's really just kind of like, following the trends that are there now. But I definitely. I do think it's definitely also, look, here's the thing. It's less of grandma and more of my frontal lobe developed.
[06:34]
B
Yes.
[06:34]
A
And I wanted to start dressing more mature, so I feel like maybe this isn't a good example. My mom.
[06:41]
B
I feel like this is mature.
[06:42]
A
Yeah. But this is, like, kind of like 90s mom. Like, I grew up with my mom wearing overalls, like, every day of my childhood. And, like, the overalls has always been a big thing. And I wear overalls. I normally wear overalls as, like, my daily uniform in my house. Like, I wear overalls. I have, like, so many different pairs.
[06:56]
B
Oh, that's cute. Do you have a gardening overalls? I feel like that's very aesthetic.
[07:00]
A
Yes. I have, like, Pinterest. I have, like, specific ones that I'm like, those look better in the garden. Like, the only person who sees it is me. Like, who cares? I don't remember what I was saying, but, yeah, I think it's affected me.
[07:10]
B
Okay. Yeah.
[07:10]
A
I've just matured. My frontal love developed, and I was like, I don't want to look like how I dressed when I was 22 anymore. You know what I mean?
[07:16]
B
Yeah. I think you definitely get to a stage where you're like, I want to look cute going to the grocery store. And so, like, what does that look like. And then I think your style kind of evolves from there. But I think also being a mom, my style has totally evolved. But I love overall. Cuz I'm like, they're cute. You look put together. But it's comfortable.
[07:32]
A
Yeah, it's like wearing a dress. And this sounds crazy. People are gonna hate me for it. But like, wearing a dress is honestly. And I don't do this. And I wear sweats every single day, so keep that in mind. Like, I don't follow this advice, but wearing like, a sundress is easier than putting on, like, sweats and a T shirt. Because it's one thing. Yeah. And you look so put together and it's not on you. Like, you have like, sensory issues. Like, that's something I've developed with my old age recently. Like my, you know.
[07:55]
B
Sensory issues. Back problems.
[07:57]
A
Yes, yes. Like, there are certain things that if like, too much is touching me, I like, freak out. So, like, a dress is really easy. With that being said, I wear sweats and I wear sweats, like, everything.
[08:05]
B
So you're not like, wearing a dress on your couch?
[08:07]
A
No, My God, no.
[08:08]
B
But like, please.
[08:09]
A
In the summer in Texas, I have like, there's times that I have to do that, obviously. Yeah, but it is easier. Like, there's certain things that, like, there's ways to dress, but where I like to wear. Like, Hill House is like my favorite brand right now, which I feel like, okay, good middle.
[08:20]
B
I just discovered Hill House and they are so cute. But it's. I. I don't know if it's because I'm tall, but sometimes I feel like I look awkward in it. It might be because I'm tall.
[08:29]
A
I would have to, like, see a photo, but I think that you probably look fine. I think you're probably just being hard on yourself, maybe. I love a jacket as a top. Like, that's been my thing the past couple of months. Like, I. I love a jacket as a top. It's so easy, it's comfortable. I love long sleeves. I like for like, my whole body to be covered just for comfort.
[08:45]
B
Right.
[08:45]
A
And like, if my spray tan's messed up, like, it's honestly not.
[08:48]
B
Like, don't look.
[08:49]
A
I'm like, actually have to be honest, guys. It has literally nothing to do with comfort. It's all like, right now, if you saw my body, you'd be like, oh, my God, you think a reptile. But I love Hill House.
[08:58]
B
Love Hill House. Okay, so like, go through your hobbies and like, how you feel when you're doing them, like baking. Is it like comfy, like all of that?
[09:07]
A
So I, like I said before, I have like pretty bad anxiety. So I think that everything I do in life is to like, make me not anxious. So a lot of my hobbies are things that you can do with your hands, which is what I found that I like to do the best. And I think that that is because you can't be scrolling on your phone. And I have. We are also addicted to our phones. Like, I'm so addicted to my phone, so I don't like scrolling. So I gradually got into hobbies. Like, I've always been a reader, so I would say reading was kind of like my gateway drug to the hobbies. And I was reading like crazy. And then I over the pandemic was like, you know, I want to really get better in the kitchen. So I started cooking and I loved that it was time that I wasn't spending in front of a screen.
[09:45]
B
Right. So I like, it's very hands on. Like you're thinking it allows you to like, it's kind of like meditative in a way.
[09:50]
A
It's very meditative. Actually. Someone who's like an expert in meditation, who. I don't meditate because, like, I am just like not at that level yet. But I want to, like, I want to be a meditator, but I'm just not. And they were like, well, honestly, you meditate all the time. Like, And I was like, really? And they said that, like, the hobbies are meditative. So, like, I'm just taking that and running with it.
[10:08]
B
Well, because I guess you're just like in your own head. Just your, your hands are doing something and your head is like elsewhere.
[10:14]
A
Exactly. So I would say then it went to cooking and then that naturally evolved into hosting. I've always been the friend that, like, my house is where everyone came to hang out. So I've kind of always been the hosting friend.
[10:25]
B
Like, I was it growing up too.
[10:27]
A
Yes.
[10:27]
B
Okay.
[10:28]
A
Yes. Like, I would be the one who was throwing everyone's surprise birthday parties. I would throw anything. Like, I always do the Christmas parties. Like, I've always been the host friend. But obviously as you get older, it's different.
[10:37]
B
Right.
[10:38]
A
So we were like doing dinner parties and stuff. And then. Yeah, it evolved into like needlepoint, like horseback riding. I just like, I've gotten into.
[10:46]
B
Oh my gosh. I wait, I was a horse girl growing up.
[10:48]
A
Love. See, I wasn't, but I wanted to be. I want it to be. Yeah, I got into it more as an adult.
[10:53]
B
Okay, so, like, how have these activities, like, do these affect your. Like when you go on a date, are you like, oh, yeah, I was just like needle pointing before this.
[11:01]
A
No, like, I don't go on dates enough at all in general. But my cousin, I'm like very, very close to my family. My cousin, he's like two years older than me. He's like, so you hide this stuff when like a guy comes over, right? You're just like, well, it's kind of hard to. When it's like, I literally sell needlepoint canvases for a friend of mine. So, like, it's kind of difficult. No, I'm very like, like, I am who I am. I would. You know what I mean? But also, I mean, I haven't like been on a date really at all this year.
[11:27]
B
So wait, that's.
[11:29]
A
No, like, I've like been like checked.
[11:30]
B
Out, so it's kind of nice.
[11:31]
A
I'll be checking back in, in 2025 for sure. But I, I think I have to just kind of get it out there. I mean, I wouldn't be like, I wouldn't lead with that.
[11:40]
B
Right?
[11:41]
A
You're.
[11:41]
B
You're not like, oh, sorry, I was late, I was knitting.
[11:44]
A
But because also, like, I am a good time. Like, I am 27. I not really like this.
[11:49]
B
Like, you're not just like, yeah, never going out.
[11:52]
A
And I'm definitely a homebody. I would always prefer to be at home and I would always, like, I have made it to where, like, my social life really revolves around my home because I host like book club. I host all that stuff. And this has not been my best year ever. So I've really been home, like more than ever. But yeah, maybe I just want to lead with it.
[12:08]
B
Yeah, I, you know, but I do think, like, maybe leading a little bit so that they don't. They're like, oh, I like, I. With that.
[12:16]
A
Yeah.
[12:16]
B
Can you imagine like a 28 year old guy being like, oh, I. With that, like, okay, sick. Like, show me your needle.
[12:22]
A
No, literally, I'll be like, oh my God. I'm like giving them a tour of my, like, work in progress. That's what they call it. Like a whip, like a work in progress thing. And it's like tick tock lingo.
[12:30]
B
But I've also heard from like the toxic, like, masculinity, like, oh, like, I want a girl that like cooks for me and like, does all these things. I feel like a guy would meet you and be like, wait, like, she like, loves these, like, but I wonder If. If you would prefer a guy who is, like, outgoing, like, always wants to be out or who like, also loves the things that you do.
[12:49]
A
So here's the thing. I am outgoing.
[12:53]
B
But you're very outgoing.
[12:54]
A
Like, yeah, but I don't. Like, I like, I don't. I'm very outgoing and I'm better. What I've real. As I've gotten older, I like really big group settings. Less and less. Like, I am. And I do love a group setting. I can be out. I am outgoing, but I don't. I honestly, like, I've been so checked out of dating, I don't even really know what I want at this point anymore. So I don't know. But I do think that they, like. I think that there could be a little misconception there where they're thinking, like, the literal trad wife. And, like, I'm not actually that.
[13:21]
B
Right.
[13:22]
A
Like, I, like, own a business. I work.
[13:23]
B
I'm like, you are like, so multi dimensional.
[13:26]
A
Yeah. Like, I'm very driven. And I'm like, no, I have, like, really big dreams. So it's like, they might get the wrong idea. But the thing about hobbies, for me that I think that's why I think it's so important to do hobbies in your 20s, is that they build so much confidence. Because it's my favorite quote by Ed Millett. Do you know how Mylett is?
[13:41]
B
Oh, my God.
[13:41]
A
He's like my idol. Anyways, he always says that confidence is built by making promises to yourself and keeping them. And I think that the easiest way to do that is by creating routines. And then I think the second easiest way to do that is by building hobbies. Because as you're building hobbies and you're getting good at a skill set that you were not maybe at the beginning, you are consistently making a promise to yourself and keeping it. So as you get better at these hobbies or you just stick to them and you show yourself that you can learn a new skill or just like, engage in time on your own. It's.
[14:10]
B
Yeah, you know, I. It's crazy because after having a baby, I feel like I've had a little identity crisis with, like, what do I like, like, what do I like doing by myself? Like, outside of just being a mom? Because, like, confident in the mom part. But I'm like, what hobbies do I like? And I feel it's hard to make time for yourself. So when I have time, I'm like, oh, am I just gonna sit and scroll my phone? So, like, what. What Hobby would you recommend? Like, what's it just, like, an entry level. Like, think that, like, it's attainable. Like, maybe you have to have, like, a little bit of creativity.
[14:39]
A
Do you like reading?
[14:40]
B
I do, but I feel like it takes up time.
[14:43]
A
Yeah. Oh, so you want something that's.
[14:45]
B
I think. I think I would want more something hands on because I like being creative. Like, you mentioned your mom was an interior designer. I got my degree in interior design, so I like doing stuff like that. But I like being, like, hands on. Like, have you tried pottery or.
[14:56]
A
I haven't done pottery. That might be a good one also. I mean, this. I don't know if this is a good one.
[15:01]
B
Like, tell me how to find my.
[15:02]
A
I know. I'm like, let's do a little psychoanalysis here. I don't know if this would be a good one because it might link too much to being a mom. But, like, my. I just think of. I mean, like, now it's junk journaling, but, like, scrapbooking was a huge thing. Like, my mom loved scrapbooking growing up. So I think that, like, that could be something that's creative also. It just depends on, like, I don't know, because also within interior, there's so many different avenues that you could take. Like, for me and, like, more of home design. Like, I like the idea that, like, your home should do two things, like tell a story and look like you. So I like doing, like, needlepoint things where I'm picking out pillows and stuff like that. So it just depends more on, like, do you. Would you. Okay. At the end of your hobby, think about it this way. Do you want something. Do you care about having something that you like and you will keep afterwards? Or do you really just want to, like, pass the time? And do you want community around it or do you want it to be solely solo?
[15:50]
B
I think I kind of like the idea of community.
[15:52]
A
Okay. So that's why I think joining.
[15:54]
B
Like, I like joining us. Scrapbooking.
[15:57]
A
Yes, that's what I'm saying. Like, something. Not even that, but like, when we're like, oh, stitch cop. Or something, like, finding. That's why I asked about. That's why I was saying that about books. Because there's like.
[16:05]
B
Yeah.
[16:05]
A
Like, something to where you're getting. I think there's something about making something with your hands that's very meditative. It's very therapeutic, and it gets you out of reality.
[16:15]
B
Yeah.
[16:15]
A
So that could be like pottery, painting, stitch club. Like, it could be, like, so many different things.
[16:21]
B
How do you Find these clubs because I know I get a lot of like feedback that girls who listen to this podcast have trouble finding like community or like making friends in your 20s. I think that that is so hard. And like half of my friends are because I found them on social media. So like, are there classes? Like do you literally just Google like scrapbooking class?
[16:40]
A
Yes. So the way that I found.
[16:42]
B
You also don't have to be the spokesperson. Like no, guys, I.
[16:45]
A
By the way, I've like fully taken on being the spokesperson of hobbies.
[16:47]
B
Like beautiful.
[16:48]
A
I don't deserve this, this credit that I've given myself. No, I, I have a similar audience and not that they say that a lot and what I always say to people. Well, first off, re like the Stitch club thing, I just started looking up like needlepoint stores and would go in person and then I went to that one class and then from there I started hosting Stitch clubs for my brand. So like that was a different experience. But there's like needlepoint stores. Whatever it is. I think when it comes to your 20s, you have like, especially postgrad you almost have to treat making friends. It's like a part time job.
[17:21]
B
Totally.
[17:22]
A
And it's exhausting and it sucks at first. It's very difficult. But all you have to do is find that one person. That one person might not be your best friend for the rest of your life, but they might. You might not even talk to them a year from now. Right. But they might connect you to other groups, to other people that you guys both fit better in.
[17:37]
B
Yeah.
[17:37]
A
I also think like, just because we both have obviously made so many friends online, we've met online. Right. I think just because like you don't have to have a platform to make your friends online like at all. Also I think the easiest way, if you are someone who's listening to this, so you clearly are like kind of into like influencer culture. I would find the influencers that you like. And a lot of the time like we had, especially when I'm like my Geneva, I meet girls all the time in Dallas. In Geneva was this app. I think they're still around that it's like a group chat for like different cities.
[18:06]
B
Okay.
[18:06]
A
So we had like probably like 40 cities in there and girls would just like make friends through that. That's so little like group me so going to that going to. If there's any influencer events, things like. I actually think that's a really amazing. Oh my God. Sorry, I keep moving this. I think that's a really amazing way.
[18:22]
B
I haven't even thought about that to.
[18:23]
A
Make friends, because I meet girls all the time out and about in Dallas that met their best friend through something that we hosted. Because if you think about it, like, if you are following an influencer, you probably have something in common because you like that person, right? And I think that that is just like. I think that's a very underrated way to make friends.
[18:39]
B
I've heard, you know, Jenna Palak, like, fun on weekdays. I've heard of, like, so many different, like, group chat. Like, they have, like, group me for people in different cities. And I'm like, oh, wow, that's such a good idea. Because it's like, Facebook groups in general.
[18:52]
A
Too, are actually another amazing idea. And another thing is putting yourself, like, it's kind of similar in dating. It's like you need to put yourself in the. In, like, experiences or situations where your ideal person would be right. And I think that's the same thing with friends. And as you, like, develop yourself more in your 20s, this really changed for me. I read the book the Defining Decade, and I really liked it. It's kind of like people feel, you know, one of two ways about it. But what I really got out of the book was this concept called identity capital. And it's less about, like, I think life is less about finding yourself and more about creating yourself. And your identity is built up of all these little small things that make you you, and a lot of that being hobbies. So you, like, kind of create yourself in the life that you want by hobbies and different interests and different things that, like, not things that you have material possession, but, like, relationships that you have, interests that you have. So I think that that is a really good way. Like, when you are. Again, it all comes into hobbies. But, like, when you are interested in something, like, even, like, working out, Pilates, like, yeah. I think when you have common interest and you're consistently putting yourself in situations where you are surrounded by people of similar interests, I think that that is really how you're going to make the friends.
[20:01]
B
Totally. I mean, I feel like I'm. You're speaking, like, to my soul right now. Do you have social anxiety? Because I'm like, I do now.
[20:09]
A
I. That's a new thing. In the past, like, year, I. And I think I've had social anxiety at different points in my life. I've had it so bad this year, but I haven't. I've. I have definitely had it throughout my life. Don't get me wrong. Like, there's like, certain specific situations that I can, like, say. Throughout my life that I've had social anxiety, and now I think I really just have it, like, all the time. But that's a new thing this year, so I really do have a lot of empathy for people who have really bad. Because it is so hard.
[20:35]
B
No, because when you're like, oh, yeah, I would, like, go into, like, a needlepoint store. I'm like, oh, my gosh. You go into store and, like, talk to somebody. But I think, like, I have, like, a really bad social anxiety.
[20:43]
A
But also, like, when I went into a needlepoint store, I wasn't talking to everyone there. Like, the owner.
[20:47]
B
Yeah.
[20:47]
A
Like, Heidi, who's, like, my neoprene grandma now.
[20:50]
B
You know her by first?
[20:51]
A
No, we work together. She calls me, like, yeah, we're very. I love her. Like, me and my grandma. All it takes is one person, though, is my point. Like, you don't have to go, and you don't have to be, like, working a room and talking to everyone. You can just, like, meet one person and have one conversation, which is still scary, but I think it's a little less intimidating that way. And it's worth it. Like, the risk is worth the gain.
[21:13]
B
I agree with that part where, like, I definitely have social anxiety, but I think that sometimes I'm like, well, would I rather be alone? Or, like, would I rather know one person? And if I see somebody in the Capils class over and over and over, I'm like, oh, hey, like, I like your sweater. And then it just evolves. You know how, like, have you seen the tick tocks of a guy meets, like, on Monday and they, like, high five? They're like, hey, nice to meet you. And then on Tuesday, they're like, bro, like, let's hang out this week. And, like, it keeps, like, evolving. And they're like, all right, you're my kids. Like, Godfather. By the end of the week, I'm like, girls are kind of not like that.
[21:41]
A
Yeah.
[21:41]
B
But I feel like girls are also, like, very intentional and.
[21:44]
A
Yes.
[21:45]
B
And, like, need to know each other on a personal level, and their relationships are deeper. Yes. And they're like, I want to get to actually know you. Like, whatever. I am so excited for the new year. I am the type of person that when the new year comes, I really look at it as an excuse to, like, revamp my entire life. I'm talking wardrobe, bedding, home, lifestyle, everything. And conveniently, Macy's is having an after Christmas sale live from Christmas Day all the way to January 1st. So it's currently happening. If you didn't get something on your Christmas list, now is the time to go and grab it at Macy's. Heading into the new year, I'm really trying to emphasize a healthier lifestyle and devote some time to self care. So I got a few things from Macy's to help out with that. My first purchase, I want to talk about the ugg boots. Okay. I have my little Ugg minis here and I just feel so cute and cozy in them but still put together. It's that type of shoe that like you will always wear. Like I wear these every single day and I got them at Macy's. Currently wearing a green Reebok set from Macy's as well. So cute, cozy. And again in the new year, I'm trying to feel like I have my life together and wearing a matching cute cozy set necessary. And last but not least, I got myself a chunky throw. And again this is just going to play into like my self care era. Reading a book, cozying up on my cute little chair, my cute little blanket. And I'm so happy I got all these things at Macy's. Again. They are having a sale currently from Christmas Day all the way to January 1st. So if your New Year's resolution looks like fitness or you want to have some cuter clothes, or even if you're looking for an outfit for New Year's Eve, head over to Macy's, they're having a great sale. I highly recommend you can shop in store or shop online@macy's.com. a couple of weeks ago we hosted our daughter's first birthday party. And with any party you have a ton of food and drinks. And for me personally, I am not trying to wash 40 plates in my sink. Right? I'm definitely the type of person that's like okay, let's get some paper plates. And if you guys have never heard of Repurpose, let me introduce you. This holiday season, whether you're hosting or want to skip the dishes, you can keep it stylish and sustainable. You can ditch the boring paper plates and plastic cups and replace it with Repurpose. Repurpose offers plant based compostable table wear like their chic stemless cups that help you celebrate without the harmful waste or forever chemicals. Better for you and better for the planet. And also better for Ally because she doesn't have to wash plates and the planet doesn't have to suffer because of that. Repurpose is a woman founded and led. It was created to make eco friendly living easy Stylish, inaccessible by their founder. All products are certified compostable and made without forever chemicals, ensuring that they're safe for you, your friends, your family, the planet, your baby. They are available at Whole Foods, Ralph's, Kroger, Albertsons, or online at repurpose.com or Amazon. So celebrate sustainably this holiday season. I mean, who wants to be washing plates? Not me. And the planet doesn't have to suffer because of that. Repurpose is perfect for the holidays everyone's hosting. Think of how many, like, small plates somebody might use for appetizers. Yeah. So Repurpose is perfect for the holidays. And this holiday season, you can visit repurpose.com and use code SUNDAY25 at checkout for 25 off your entire order. That's R E P U-R-P-O-S E.com with code SUNDAY25. You can also find them at Ralph's, Kroger's, Whole Foods Albertsons. So this year, replace it with Repurpose and host with joy for you and for the planet. Martha Stewart, you mentioned. You see, you posted a tick tock about her.
[25:58]
A
Like, no, like, I'm so obsessed with Martha Stewart. I've been obsessed with Martha Stewart since I was like a child.
[26:02]
B
So is she like, you're like goddess, like your spirit animal, you know, I.
[26:06]
A
Met her a couple days ago.
[26:06]
B
Wait, no.
[26:07]
A
Okay, so this happened just a few days ago, but basically I.
[26:10]
B
The biggest day of my life was.
[26:11]
A
Literally the biggest day of my life was last week. No, I idolize her. Like, I think she's so funny. I love her. Like, I have been. I've always loved Martha Stewart. I think that, like, my obsession definitely took over more in like my early 20s. Maybe like late, late teens.
[26:28]
B
Right.
[26:29]
A
More so then like personality wise. And like, as I've gotten older, like, that's all the stuff that I like to do.
[26:34]
B
Yeah.
[26:34]
A
So, yeah, no, I'm like, obsessed with her.
[26:37]
B
So, like, aside from her, is there anyone else you look up to?
[26:39]
A
Dolly Parton.
[26:40]
B
Dolly Parton. Okay.
[26:42]
A
Yeah, I love her. I love from like an interior perspective. I love Nancy Myers and just from like all of her movies. But I would say, like, my three, like my big three would be Dolly, Martha, Nancy.
[26:58]
B
Oh, my. Okay. Iconic. Okay. So going back into hobbies, let's say, like, people who are watching this are like, okay, I'm super busy, but, like, I really want to start a hobby. Like, I kind of mentioned that. What, like, what hobbyists do you think are good for, like, girls in their 20s?
[27:14]
A
Like, I also am aware that there's definitely people here who are like, I'm a mom, I have no time. Like, and I empathize with that. Like, I just want to say, like, I'm single and I don't have a child. So like that makes it a lot easier. Easier?
[27:23]
B
Well, I think the reading a book, like I should read at night before scrolling. Yeah, like that sounds like real.
[27:29]
A
Like here's something I say like very gently with people, like with the amount of time that we all spend on our phones, like you have time for a hobby. You know what I mean?
[27:36]
B
I look at my like, what is it, your screen time?
[27:39]
A
Yeah.
[27:40]
B
Tragic.
[27:41]
A
It's dark. It is dark. I think just starting, even replacing it with a book and knowing it's kind of like working out. Like you don't always want to start and work out, but afterwards you feel so much better.
[27:52]
B
Right.
[27:52]
A
You'll notice how like a lot of these things are really here to like regulate your nervous system. And when I, I mean just speaking for myself, like I do especially the past week with like how much like women just in general, like business are getting attacked online. Like actually crazy.
[28:07]
B
Oh, the Forbes. Oh, you're referring to that.
[28:10]
A
Yeah, I guess that was another thing too. Just adding to the list.
[28:12]
B
Yeah. Cause it people mentioned that like Forbes is like a very like social media is very woman dominated and people are making excuses like, oh, they have to pay their way to the top. And I'm like, oh, I never thought about that. Like the criticism in that way.
[28:24]
A
Yeah. But like even if you think about. I was like, I've been on a rant page about this for like days. Even if you think about like the said active park collaboration. Okay, like let's just really think about this for a second. These two women built brands with such cool audiences and have done so well in relatively short periods of time. Right. They do a collaboration together. They. I'm sorry, I'm getting like so off track. They do a collaboration together.
[28:48]
B
No, this is interesting to me.
[28:49]
A
They sell that out. They have unprecedented traffic on the website. They're happy about that. Obviously. Okay. That is a huge thing. Great. Okay. They open a pre order so everyone else who wasn't able to get the first, those first items, they open a pre order for those people. Then they continue on with business and they're like very apologetic, which it's like, I don't know, just like as a consumer, I'm not entitled to like everyone's job if I miss it. Like. Yeah, like you want to like obviously.
[29:15]
B
Supply and demand like you want.
[29:16]
A
Yeah. And you, you want to like have enough product for everyone. As a brand owner, I understand that we don't really do it in the way of like sellout like drops. That's just like not how we're structuring. But that's an amazing thing. And it's proven time and time again that it works to build a brand.
[29:29]
B
Right.
[29:29]
A
So it's like, okay, then they open a pre order, which is amazing. Had they not everyone would have been like, I hate you stupid bitches. Blah, blah, blah, Right. Then they have other launches which if you know anything about business, obviously that's months and months and months, years in advance, especially for set, like they've been years out. Then they do another drop and like they're manufacturing for the preorder gets pushed 10 days, which sucks. And like as a business owner, that sucks because you don't have control over that. And like the way that these girls are getting attacked on the Internet. But if a man did that in business, they would be seen as geniuses. Brilliant. They would never be attacked personally for their lives and who they are, what they look like. All these things, the way that they are getting annihilated on the Internet for having a successful drop.
[30:11]
B
Crazy. I haven't been following it that close.
[30:14]
A
Oh my God, it's so bad. And I click, not interested, not interested, not interested on this stuff all the time. And it's like, I just feel so bad. And listen, all of it, none of us are perfect. All of us make mistakes.
[30:23]
B
Totally, Absolutely.
[30:24]
A
Like, I'm sure there are mistakes. I'm sure they'd be like, I wish we order more units. They'd make more money.
[30:28]
B
Right?
[30:29]
A
Obviously. But like people, at the end of the day, I think this just in general, like, people are just trying their best. And like, I promise you a crew neck that says like Parker set is not enough to like, to give this amount of hate towards.
[30:42]
B
Right?
[30:42]
A
And if a man were to create a business like that, like, it wouldn't even be talked about. It'd be like, yeah, it just dropped really fast. Like. But the way that like, because we now have a parasocial relationships with brands, we're kind of entering some like, tricky territory where people are just so mean. And I'm like, look, we are all just trying our absolute best. If anything, we should be like, we should be talking about them like, oh my God, look at what they've done. Building these women who have worked very hard and built very successful brands. I just like, it is actually, it's like really getting to me this week.
[31:08]
B
I, it's crazy that you mentioned that because I really do feel strongly about. I, I don't find hate. Like I honestly started my platform because I got a lot of hate and I think it's like sometimes good, like I, like sometimes Chris, constructive criticism, but there's also a level of hold on. Like I'm in my 20s.
[31:29]
A
Yeah.
[31:29]
B
I don't want to like I can't be perfect. And so like if I say something wrong or I do something wrong, like, should I really get canceled over? I think there are some things that are like okay, obviously.
[31:39]
A
Yeah.
[31:39]
B
But I think within reason it's like I'm still my 20s and like I'm just trying to figure out life just as much as all these people. And you have like these 40 year old woman like commenting on your page and they're like, oh my God, this, this and this. So I can really empathize with like them getting all this hate and going through all that. And it's just like, it's really not that deep.
[31:57]
A
No, it's not that deep. And also like the only difference between like them, like between like the founders and the people leaving all the hate is that like the people leaving all the hate don't have platforms. So any of their quote, mistakes or things that they've done, which I don't even feel like that was a mistake. I don't know enough. But like any like those, their mistakes aren't public for all of these people to judge and to go off of. And it's like, I don't know, I just think it's like we sometimes as a whole, myself included, need to go outside and touch some grass. Like it is.
[32:27]
B
No, honestly, it's just like, so I.
[32:30]
A
Don'T know, it makes me like very, very sad, honestly, for like humanity, like, and I know it sounds stupid.
[32:34]
B
No, it does.
[32:34]
A
You see it in every element. It's. This is the very niche example. But you see it all over the place and it's like, and then the mob mentality, like at the end of the day, like people don't even really know why these girls are getting so much hate. And then they just jump in and they're like, oh yeah, they suck. And it's like, wait, but like guys, they, they did a drop it sold out. They did a pre order. Sorry, it got pushed 10 days, which is sucks. But like if you know anything about lead times in manufacturing, like you really don't have that much control at the end of the day. If they say they need two more days, they can't just. I don't know, it's just like, it makes me very sad and I think.
[33:06]
B
It'S like out of their control.
[33:07]
A
Yeah.
[33:08]
B
But going back to hobbies. I'm actually. I'm happy that we covered that though. But going back to hobbies. So like, an entry level hobby. What are. What should girls do who are super busy? Like, they're trying to fit it into a routine.
[33:21]
A
Okay. So I like when I give advice to this stuff. I kind of, like, my hobbies just are traditionally pretty domestic. But that's just. Cause that's what I like to do.
[33:30]
B
That's what you like? Yeah.
[33:31]
A
So I'm not telling you to like, go in the. Get into the kitchen. You know what I mean?
[33:34]
B
Come on, go ahead and bake some bread.
[33:35]
A
Yeah. Literally, I'm like, I think very entry. Personally, I love reading. I think reading is a good one. Another thing, entry level wise, I think it's great to do something that there's community around.
[33:46]
B
Yeah.
[33:46]
A
So even if you're not in a book club, like online, when you start reading, I always tell people to like, start with Colleen Hoover because there's so.
[33:52]
B
Much I was gonna ask you. Like, what is your, like, book to tell people to read that might get them into reading?
[33:58]
A
Okay. I would say for romance, I would say before we are Strangers, Renee Carlino and then thriller. Why am I forgetting this? Jennifer Hillier.
[34:09]
B
I feel like a book that got me, like, into reading was Verity.
[34:13]
A
Yeah, Verity is a great. Actually thriller. I would say Verity.
[34:15]
B
It's really good. And I was like, oh, wow. Like the way that you feel after reading a book, you're like, wait, I want more.
[34:20]
A
And that's an amazing one right now.
[34:22]
B
Because the Twilight series.
[34:23]
A
Oh, my God. Honestly, I'm a huge Twilight. So honestly, I think Verity is a great one too, because there's a lot of community online around it. It's being developed into a movie or show right now. So, like, I think things that have conversations around that because you're naturally just a little bit more invested. So I think that reading is a great one. I think that if you like to work out at all, like, I think that's a great one. Going to, like, a specific studio. I think another way to make friends is going to the same place at the same time every day.
[34:50]
B
Yeah.
[34:51]
A
Because other people are doing that. Like, I have as an adult, I feel like the equivalent to like your school friends or your workout friends.
[34:56]
B
Yes.
[34:57]
A
Your gym friends. So it's like I have people in my gym that we would have never met and probably never spoken like. I probably would have tried to talk to them, but they probably wouldn't want to talk to me, you know. And now like I talk to them all the time, you know, and in like a gym setting. But I think that especially like so many of us work from home, it kind of gives you like some sort of like social community. So I would say entry, entry, entry. Like some sort of workout in movement. It could be like a run club, which is a great.
[35:24]
B
I didn't know how big run clubs. Oh my God.
[35:25]
A
They're like the new dating app. It's actually. Yeah.
[35:28]
B
I want to start like, I want to start going like the Newport beach run club.
[35:30]
A
Yeah. So people make friends all the time.
[35:32]
B
Yeah. That's what I'm like.
[35:33]
A
Yeah.
[35:34]
B
And. But I feel like you have to do things that you actually enjoy. Like, I do enjoy running. Well, to an extent. Like, I like the activity of it. I don't know that I love running.
[35:42]
A
Yeah.
[35:42]
B
But I think that it's a good thing to do. And I, I think even if you're like a young married couple meeting those types of friends in those settings, like, you're gonna do what like minded people are doing.
[35:52]
A
Absolutely.
[35:53]
B
If that makes sense. Yeah. As many of you know, my husband's been in the NFL and we've gone to a few different cities and in each city I don't feel at home until I find a workout class that I love going to every morning. And that's where Burn Boot Camp comes in. I started going to Burn Boot Camp back when my husband played in Los Angeles with the Chargers. And I truly fell in love with it. All of us girls would get together, we would all go to class and get coffee after. And it was my favorite morning activity because one, I'm getting into shape, but two, there's a lot of community around Burn Boot Camp. Right now, Burn Boot camp is offering 30 days for 59 to jump start your commitment to you. And Burn Boot Camp is not intimidating. There are so many moms and families also like mid-20s. Like, the range of people who go to Burn Boot Camp is so inspiring, but also so welcoming. I truly never feel self conscious while working out there. Their workouts are really attainable and like achievable, but also going to push you to be the absolute best you. And let's be real, as a mom, you're juggling a million things and self care can sometimes feel impossible. And Burn Boot Camp gets that. So they make it easy with child watch and workouts that fit your schedule so you can prioritize yourself without the guilt. At Burn Boot Camp, they believe that moms and dads who take care of themselves are better parents, better leaders, and better community members. And I for one know that I am a happier person when I get a quick little workout in and my daughter can tag along so I'm not having to worry about getting a babysitter. I can literally bring her along. She has so much fun at the child Care Burn Boot Camp and she's having a good morning, I'm having a good morning and we're both happy. This Commit to fit promotion is a call to action to reclaim those promises you made to yourself. Because they do matter. So pull them off a shelf, blow the dust off of them and seize this moment for self care through commitment. At Burn, they believe it's not what you lose, it's what you gain strength, confidence and community. And they're setting a new standard in fitness. Burn Boot Camp doesn't believe in dieting, mirrors, machines or scales. None of them reflect your true strength. So if you guys are interested in trying out Burn Boot Camp, be sure to visit burn bootcamp.com Sunday Sports Club it's the most wonderful time of the year. Holidays on the house at DraftKings Casino with this season's offerings, you'll unwrap everything you wished for, from table games and jackpots to a slot at the top of everyone's list. Jingle bells, power reels. DraftKings is offering a warm welcome to new players with 100 instantly in casino credits with just a ten dollar wager. Plus everyone can get in on the action with a holiday reward every week. So sign up using code Sunday Sports Club because the holiday cheer is Here only on DraftKings Casino Gambling Problem Call 1-800-GAMBLER in Connecticut. Help is available for problem gambling. Call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org Please play responsibly. 21/physically present in Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia only void in Ontario eligibility restrictions apply. New customers only opt in required casino credits are non withdrawable and expire in 168 hours terms@casino.draftkings.com promos in addition to like all these other hobbies, you also love hosting. I grew up in the house where my mom hosted every single holiday. Like our house was always like the go to Holiday House. It was like never a question. And now that I'm in my adult 20s and have a family I'm like, wait. I love hosting. I haven't had a house to host yet. So, like, literally, I'm. The first day I have my house, I'm. I'm waiting until February to throw my birthday party. I'm in January birthday, but I'm like, I'm waiting until February because I want to have, like, a dinner party. So when it comes to hosting, like, take us through your must haves when. Like, throwing a dinner party.
[40:00]
A
Okay. Must haves for throwing a dinner party. I think I mean, like, budget hacks, you can get everything that you need, like, thrifting. Right. And you need to do, like, lead tests and stuff on that. So, like, look into that, but you really can't or lead. I'm like, watch out for that. I always get comments about that. I'm like, all right, I think I'm good. Yeah. Or at home, I have, like, a really great dish set that's really inexpensive that I can use for everything.
[40:20]
B
Yeah.
[40:20]
A
For my home brand friend of mine, I actually developed dinner party cards so that, like, you. Because I am a floater friend, I feel like. Are you a floater?
[40:28]
B
Yeah.
[40:28]
A
I see that in you. So I'm always bringing together, like, different groups of people, which a lot of people, that's their worst nightmare. But I'm lucky in that most people get along, and I like to just, like, mix things up some. When you're the host, though, having the comp. Like when you have a billion things going on and you're also kind of in charge of, like, making the conversation flow. You're trying to get everyone, like, together and talking. So the dinner party cards are just great because you have them out and then people are playing them, and then it just opens conversation.
[40:54]
B
Right.
[40:55]
A
Which I love that. So that's another. We have, like, nightcap cards, too, that are, like, just one step deeper, like, a little bit, like, less appropriate, but they're fun. That's appropriate, I think.
[41:04]
B
More fun.
[41:04]
A
Yeah, More fun. I think that, like, any, like, conversation card game is really, really helpful when it comes to hosting. And then it really just depends on, like, what you are, like, what your theme is. There is this brand host. Yeah. H A U S T E that I always refer to. And they have guides, because a lot of the time, if you're cooking for a dinner party, the hardest part about cooking for a dinner party is timing everything correctly.
[41:28]
B
I could never.
[41:29]
A
It's so difficult. But they have. They have, like, themed dinner parties that are set to go, and it'll give you everything, like your grocery List your schedule, the theme. It's amazing. Okay, that's. We like, I really need to do something with them, but I love their stuff and it's. I think it's like host co. I'm pretty sure I follow them on Instagram, but they are incredible. So that's another thing that I think is really like valuable.
[41:52]
B
So what's your go to theme?
[41:54]
A
Okay, so right now I. I think themes are like the most important thing about a dinner party actually, because it makes.
[42:00]
B
You're gonna. You're literally helping me plan my 30th birthday right now.
[42:03]
A
Okay. So like 30, 40 and thriving could be fun to do. Like actually, why am I forgetting the movie name?
[42:11]
B
13 Going On 30.
[42:12]
A
Yeah, 13 Going On 30. But like, and that's kind of like maybe a little bit overdone now. But I think like, for example, one that I just recently did for Christmas, the holidays. Like my favorite movie ever. And it's like completely influenced me and every movie. Speaking of needlepoint, I need a point to Rose Hill Cottage and I have a pillow on my couch.
[42:27]
B
No way.
[42:28]
A
It's the best. But it's my favorite movie ever. And we did the holiday themed dinner party and I had everyone come dressed up as someone from the movie. Oh, so you had like Mr. Napkinhead. I dressed up as Amanda woods arriving at Rose Hill Cottage. We had like all of the different people and it was so much. It's so much fun because it's like an extra. It's an extra element to the night that just makes it more special. And now I'm gonna do we like Nancy Myers posted to her story which like literally made my entire life. But now I'm gonna go through. And this year my goal is to host a dinner party to every single Nancy Meyers themed movie. So like we'll do the Parent Trap, like things like that. So anything that like you specifically are interested in, I think even like pop culture wise.
[43:07]
B
Right.
[43:07]
A
Could be really fun. And it makes it helps because it gives you direction and structure for the night. And it also makes it like that much more special versus just some like, oh, we're just having like a dinner party. Like I like a theme.
[43:18]
B
Yeah. And I think a theme is like kind of necessary.
[43:22]
A
I agree.
[43:22]
B
Even if it's a subtle theme. I just think that like something to have.
[43:25]
A
Yeah. Even if it's just like fall pasta night. Like something like that, you know, like having a little bit of a theme I think is really great.
[43:32]
B
Something I've actually come to appreciate is like my new friend Group whenever we have like, dinner parties or anything, like, they will send, like, outfit inspo.
[43:40]
A
Yeah.
[43:41]
B
Oh, like, no, literally, JC's 30. I'm like, okay, so I'm like, wearing sequins. Okay, I got it. But, like, Chelsea just threw a Halloween party and it was a murder mystery party, and it was, like, pirate themed and it was so much. I have not been to an adult, like, dinner party where, like, everybody where there's a theme and it's like, well thought out and I had so much fun. And also, the. The murder mystery was a level I've never experienced, like, figuring out who murdered who. And it was so much fun. And I think that's what even, like, I'm trying or like, I'm gravitating towards now as an adult is like, I don't like going out to, like, bungalowing, getting fucked up, but, like, I like getting a little tipsy at dinner or, like, around, like, a group of friends, like, in a casual setting. Like, that's my favorite thing.
[44:26]
A
And I think this is, like, an experience we all go through once you realize, like, it's actually not fun to black out anymore because my body can't handle it, you know?
[44:32]
B
Like, wait, I don't remember the fun.
[44:34]
A
I think, wait, I literally can't even think about how that, like, not a single moment of that was fun looking back, you know, And I just think that it's kind of like romanticizing your life. Like, I think it just makes it more fun. Like, why you could go to dinner or you could do a Mortimer's Story dinner. It's just more fun and it's more intentional. Like, I feel like you're living. I just recorded with Susie Welch, who's like, literally my new icon. She's everything to me. She has this class at NYU called Becoming you. And it's like living authentically and finding your purpose. Like, if you don't know what you want to do in life. No, seriously, like, if you don't know what you need to do in life, like, you need to, like, listen to her podcast or, like, go to this class. I know that she does in person one weekend, maybe twice a year, but I really, really want to go. But she was talking about how there's 3Ds in life and there's like, I can't remember the first two, only the one that I am. But I'm living by design. My biggest fear in life is to just let life happen and not live it to the fullest and not do everything that I can and These are really small ways of intentionality that make me feel like life has more purpose or something, especially when you're going through a hard time. It's just small things to look forward to, to get involved and, like, lean in. It's just, like, little things of joy.
[45:40]
B
I like. Yeah. And I think the intentional piece is, like, so important. And I think a lot of people forget because it's like, you wake up, you go to work, you. You. You're at work, you come home, you make dinner. It's like, the same mundane things, but it's like, how can you, like, live your life intentionally? Like, what are you doing in the car that you're finding enjoy? Or, like, what are you doing after work that you're finding joy? And I think that's also really important. And when it comes to dinner parties, I think that it's like, oh, like, plan a dinner party, like, once a month or, like, every few months. Like, it doesn't matter. And I think that it will help, like, your friendships too.
[46:12]
A
Yes, absolutely.
[46:13]
B
So do you have any, like, horror stories when it comes to, like, hosting dinner parties?
[46:18]
A
Okay. I'm lucky that I haven't had a full horror story, and that is probably because I will not cook something new for a dinner party. Like, I will not try a new recipe. I actually. I did just try a different version of a chicken roast, like, for my Christmas dinner party, but it was like, it was a chicken roast. Like, you can't really mess that up. But you know how to roast a chicken.
[46:35]
B
As long as it's cooked, it's fine.
[46:37]
A
Yeah, you're fine. But I don't have necessarily horror stories. I will just say, like, people canceling last minute, which is, like, when I was tragic. It's so rude.
[46:47]
B
Like, when you people canceled, like, before. Like, the day before our wedding, and I was like, we're in Mexico.
[46:51]
A
I would actually scream. No, that is, like, a different level. Yeah, but, like, when you spend. Like, a dinner party takes a lot of effort. Like, it takes a lot. Especially if you're cooking the dinner party. But regardless, this. Like, if you're canceling on anything socially, let the dinner party be the last thing that you cancel on. Seriously. Because it's like, that person has been, like, slaving away in the kitchen. They've been decorating for days. They've been doing all this before that. They were planning it, ideating it. Like, it's just really, like, hurtful to cancel, like, right before a dinner party. So I would say, like, it's not a horror Story. Those are just, like, the only things that I can think of that are, like, bad.
[47:23]
B
Okay. And then I need, like, what's your favorite dinner party you've ever had?
[47:28]
A
My favorite would probably be. I would say the holiday dinner party was my favorite. And what's interesting is we only had, like, four people at that dinner party, which is like, the smallest I've ever thrown. And I actually loved how intimate it was. Like, I'm realizing now that I either. I'm realizing, like, the sweet spot of how many people to invite, especially when you're inviting different people from all over. But sometimes if it's too big, you can't talk to everyone and, like, get everyone involved. Like that one, we stayed out. We had, like, the conversations that I still think about that were just so funny. And we had such a good time. And like, the girls who were all there, we always talk about that dinner.
[47:59]
B
Yeah.
[47:59]
A
And it was just. It was so fun. And I think because we had such a good crowd of people and there were so few of us, it was just very intimate. Actually, the holiday. That was not. Sorry. That actually was not the holiday dinner party. I'm lying. There were more people at the holiday dinner party. Anyone who watched the video that was dressing up was like. There was literally eight people there. You're a liar. Sorry, I got them confused. That one was great for. That was like a fall themed one. But honestly, I still. I stand. I. I stand by, like, the holiday being the most fun because of everyone dressing up.
[48:28]
B
Yeah. You know, and there was, like, something more to it. Do you think now, like, eight people is not a ton of people. It's like a good amount of people. Even four. Do you think that you'll have a small wedding or a big wedding?
[48:39]
A
I go back and forth. Not that often because I don't really think. Clearly there's not really.
[48:43]
B
Like, I don't really think about my wedding.
[48:46]
A
I think it'll be small. Like, I don't want. Like, this is, like, controversial and, like, I'm depending on who you are. You get a plus one or not. But, like, I don't want someone at my wedding that I met for the first day.
[48:56]
B
Yeah.
[48:57]
A
That I'm like, I think that's kind of insane for me. Like, I don't want that. And also that probably has to do with, like, the fact that, like, my wedding will be documented online. Like, all these things, you know? But no, I think it'll be small, actually.
[49:10]
B
I Like, how many people.
[49:12]
A
Okay. Like, my cousin did. She just got married in April and she, I think, had, like, 105 there. And that felt good to me. But also, here's the problem. I have friends all over, and I have too many people for that.
[49:26]
B
Yeah.
[49:26]
A
At this point in my life, like, as you get older with each year, it's like, well, you don't have to invite that person to your wedding that you're drifting. So that's nice. I think I would either have to go. Really? Really. The problem is I have a big family. I don't know. I say small, but, like, probably like 200 people.
[49:38]
B
Okay. So I had a 60 person wedding.
[49:41]
A
And you don't regret that at all? That was the best thing ever.
[49:43]
B
No, it was the best thing ever. Like, I. Whoever will listen, I will tell about my wedding because I loved the amount of people at our wedding. We also had a. Our wedding was in 2021. So Covid affected. Like, a lot of people didn't feel comfortable going totally fine with that. So we had our wedding on Zoom, which, like, helped people feel, like, included. But nobody from our family came except our parents and our siblings. So everybody else watched on Zoom. And then we also got married in Mexico. So people flew in, like, a few days before, a few days after, because, like, it was right after Covid, like, kind of still in the midst of it. And it was like, the best because people. If you don't do a destination wedding, I would recommend, like, a welcome party because people get to, like, mingle and get to know each other. And then on your wedding day, it's not like. Like, everyone's. It's just one big party.
[50:28]
A
Yeah.
[50:28]
B
So that was. I love that Favorite thing is, like, 60 of our closest friends.
[50:34]
A
It's hard for me to even conceptualize, like, the amount of people, like, visually when I say, like, 100, 200, like, I don't know how many people that. You know what I mean? Like, I can't, like, actually besides, like, Alyssa's wedding. But I love that. Like, I think that's. I really do think that's the way to go. With that being said, it would be very hard because I'm very close to my extended family.
[50:51]
B
That's. That's where your numbers are gonna raise.
[50:53]
A
That's the issue. And, like, I own, like, every guy that I like. I. I'm really attracting people who have, like, really good relationships with other, like, their friends and, like, family.
[51:02]
B
Yeah.
[51:02]
A
And they're outgoing. So, like, I can only, like, I already have. I think it'll. I don't know. It just depends on, like, it's gonna.
[51:06]
B
Be like a 400 person wedding.
[51:08]
A
No, it like can't be that big. It really can't at all. But I. I really don't know. I think it'll just depend.
[51:14]
B
Yeah. And speaking of another big event, not for you, but the super bowl is right around the corner and like a lot of people host super bowl parties and like, make it fun. So what is something that you would recommend to people to like, include to like, make it more fun or like any hosting tips?
[51:29]
A
I obviously, like, depending on the two teams that are playing in the Super Bowl. I would do like drinks depending on the teams.
[51:35]
B
Fun.
[51:35]
A
Also if there's like lore, like if the chiefs are in it, there's so many like fun ways to like incorporate like Mahomes themed. Kelsey. It could be Taylor Swift. Like, there's so many different things that you can do randomly for an appetizer. This is my number one go to thing that I make across the board, period. That like every single person who comes to my house and eats this talks about forever and they always ask for it. Again, they're bacon wrapped dates and they look gross. Okay. And they look weird. They sound weird. They don't sound good.
[52:02]
B
Bacon and dates. You.
[52:04]
A
You have to just trust me though, because every single person that's ever had them is like, it's. It's so good. You just stuff a date with goat cheese, you wrap it in bacon, you throw it in the oven and they taste unbelievable.
[52:13]
B
Okay.
[52:13]
A
They're so, so good. Oh my God, they're so good.
[52:17]
B
So I'm gonna have to try that out because that's intriguing. I like dates and I like bacon.
[52:20]
A
Yeah, you would like it then never.
[52:22]
B
Had them together and then kind of like football.
[52:23]
A
It's like there's ways to like make that, you know. But again, I would really lean into like the two teams because it's fun to like add more competition to like the atmosphere and have people like lean into the two.
[52:34]
B
Even having everybody choose a team, like you have to root for like one team or the other. Yes, that would be fun.
[52:39]
A
It would be fun and like even like depending on who it the group of people. But I think like having people, especially if this is like a girl watch party and people are into like more of the like not to generalize it. Like a lot of the pop culture. Yeah, like sport.
[52:51]
B
I was saying. I was gonna say the drama. But yes, pop culture is like the mature way the pop culture on the sport.
[52:56]
A
Like having people dress up as like Ed Kelsey or whatever. Like this is like if the cheap to win the Super Bowl.
[53:00]
B
Like, like, you're like manifesting the Chiefs. Like, you're like, I really want the Chiefs.
[53:04]
A
No, because, like, listen, like, I want them to like, I want their dynasty. Like, I want that for them. Like, I really am cheering for them because, like, they're the only ones I can get that right now. And so, like, I'm hoping for the best, you know. And also it's like easy with like pop culture.
[53:17]
B
It is also.
[53:18]
A
I saw. I actually just got this for my dad on for his birthday. But on, On, I like a gift giver. Like, that's like my love language on. On Common Goods. They have little like NFL bingo things. And like my dad and my stepmom, like, they always do like little games when they're watching sport. Like, I grew up in like a very, very sports centric store. I mean, I grew up in Texas, but like very, very sports centric family. So they have these cute little like bingo things for like NFL games that are just fun to play throughout. So like I got him one that was like, my dad's like a huge Steelers fan. Like got him like a Steelers themed whatever. But I think like having games throughout that are not even. You can make it like, not even super sports heavy. It doesn't have to be like, plays and who scores what. Like, it doesn't need to be that.
[54:04]
B
It can be like something funny.
[54:06]
A
Like something funny or like however many shows.
[54:08]
B
Chugging a beer.
[54:09]
A
Yes, yes. And I think that's so fun. Like, I think sports are like, they're so fun and I love that it brings everyone together in a world that is so divided at this point. You know, like, there's something about it that's just, just especially like when you grow up around or you grew up in Texas, it just is like so a part of your like childhood and upbringing. There's something about it that's just like very. Like, I like anything that's like very communal.
[54:29]
B
Yeah.
[54:30]
A
But there's ways to make it fun even if you're not someone who's like into stats. Like, I'm not so into stats, but I love sports.
[54:35]
B
No, literally, I talk all the time about how this podcast is literally, stats are boring. Like, nobody actually cares about. I mean, some people do care about stats. I don't personally care about stats and I don't think anybody listening to this cares about stats either. But so, yeah, when it goes to sports, I always talk about how there's like a place in sports for everybody. Like, you don't have to know everything. Yeah. But also, like, if you listen to this podcast, like, I'll help you learn some stuff. Like, at least the basics are, like, the cool stuff that people want to know about, like the behind the scenes, or like this and that. Like, what are the players wearing to the game? I feel like there's like, fashion. Like, everything's involved, and I think it. It's like a space for everybody.
[55:07]
A
Absolutely.
[55:07]
B
And I feel like hosting is, like, very similar that or like, even like, grandma hobbies.
[55:13]
A
Also, like, you should always have chili if you're hosting anything. Football.
[55:16]
B
Oh, my God.
[55:16]
A
You have to have chili. Absol. It's the easiest thing in the world to make. Chili was invented for football.
[55:21]
B
Seriously, it just, like, chills on the stove.
[55:24]
A
Like, it's so easy, low maintenance. It makes the house smell amazing. Add, like brown sugar cinnamon to it, and it, like, smells better.
[55:30]
B
Okay. My friend actually made me chili last night, and she was like, you have to put brown sugar in it so good. It's like, okay. It's actually crazy you mentioned that because it was literally last. Yeah. And also New Year's is soon, so, like, what are your plans for New Year's? Are you hosting? Are you going?
[55:44]
A
So, like, that's always up in the air for me. I think New Year's is really hard because everyone's traveling too. Like, I'll be home and I have friends that are coming to visit. And so I. We were talking. I'm like, why don't I just, like, host something? Because I don't love going out on New Year's Eve. I know it's shocking after listening to this, you guys are gonna be surprised, but I like New Year's is such a fun thing. With that being said, I have no idea what I'm doing for New Year's, and I probably will host something, but, like, I don't know what I will do. So we'll see. But I think if you want to host, even if, like, you guys are going out and hosting a little cute, like New Year's Eve, like, cocktail hour before, like, AKA pregame.
[56:21]
B
Like, in doing a classy pregame, people.
[56:24]
A
Over for cocktail, I'm like, you guys are like, chugging like fireball.
[56:28]
B
Yeah.
[56:29]
A
And like, there's. There's fun things. Like, just off the top of my head, I'd probably do something that's like, random. Like, you could do a game that's around, like, not manifesting but, like, guesses for 2025. Like, I'm just thinking, like, sports related. It's like, Taylor and Travis in 2025. Like, and you're getting engaged, right?
[56:50]
B
Yeah.
[56:51]
A
Like, you do, like, your predictions.
[56:52]
B
I like that.
[56:53]
A
And then you can come back to them later, like, do something around it. But I think that, like, that's fun. And you have it structured to where there's like, you have to do five. You're sharing them. It just like, it breaks the ice. It creates conversation. I think doing theme drinks is really fun, adding some sort of element. I'm actually not like, I like a game night.
[57:11]
B
Yep.
[57:11]
A
But only recently because I got into, like, mahjong, which is like another grandma hobby of mine. Anyways, I. I don't love forced fun. Like, I think that. And I'm a talker, so I would almost always rather just sit around and talk to people than, like, play game. So, like, I'm very specific on the games that I like. So when I say this stuff, I'm not saying, like, center your whole night around it. But I think you do need to have like, like some, like, maybe like one or two elements of something that's kind of like guiding the night, but definitely leave room. That's like when you go on a trip. Yes. It's like the equivalent of like, when you go on a trip and like, every single hour is booked on that trip. I hate that. And I think that that is very equivalent to, like, when you're hosting something and it's force fun the entire time. Like, you cannot do that. You need to, like, leave some room.
[57:54]
B
Well, and it's like, if you're forcing fun, people can't, like, talk. Yeah. And I feel like that's also like, something that makes people have a lot of fun. Yeah.
[58:01]
A
They don't get to know each other. Like, I don't know. So not like, no more force fun in 2025, please.
[58:07]
B
Okay. We're going to do some rapid fire questions before we end the episode. So I'm just going to say like, this or that and you can give me your take. Vintage jerseys or modern jerseys. Vintage rom coms or reality shows?
[58:20]
A
Rom coms.
[58:21]
B
That's surprising because I love pop culture.
[58:23]
A
But I don't want. That's another weird thing about me. I don't watch reality tv, but I love pop culture.
[58:28]
B
Okay. Interesting.
[58:28]
A
It's so bizarre. I just like, growing up, my mom never liked reality and I hated that about her. I was like, why can't we watch this? And then I got older and, like, now I don't like it. So I'm like, oh, it's so weird.
[58:37]
B
It is Interesting that you love pop culture.
[58:39]
A
I know, but I like pop culture and, like, the YouTube sense.
[58:41]
B
Okay.
[58:41]
A
And like the Taylor Swift sense.
[58:43]
B
Yes. Okay. Running a marathon or cheering on a friend who is running the marathon?
[58:48]
A
Cheering on a friend for sure. I. I actually am gonna run a half this year, but, like, oh, I'm.
[58:52]
B
Not running a marathon.
[58:53]
A
Marathon. Let's relax.
[58:54]
B
Yeah, I'm trying. That's, like, on my list of things I want to accomplish before I get pregnant.
[58:58]
A
I'm like, a marathon.
[58:59]
B
Yeah.
[59:00]
A
Wow. Good for you.
[59:01]
B
I haven't done it yet.
[59:02]
A
Like, seriously, even saying that you want to do a marathon deserves a medal. Seriously. Especially as a mom.
[59:07]
B
No, actually, that's so impressive. Awkward silences or talking over each other?
[59:13]
A
It's hard because, like, I know I probably talked about you so many times in this podcast, but, like, that's because, like, we're talking. I would prefer an awkward silence because it's not forced fun. Like, I think if you have silence in general, it's just that you're comfortable with someone.
[59:25]
B
Okay, yes.
[59:26]
A
In a normal sense. Not in a podcast. It's like, literally not you're supposed to do.
[59:29]
B
But I can tell if somebody is, like, a good friend if we can sit in silence and then be like, oh, wait, what did you say? Yeah, like, that's when I know we're vibing hot yoga or reform reformer Pilates.
[59:39]
A
Like, hot Pilates. I don't like yoga, but I love hot Pilates.
[59:43]
B
Okay. I've never taken a hot.
[59:45]
A
Oh, my God, I love hot matte Pilates. That's my favorite.
[59:47]
B
Okay, I'm gonna need to take one of those classes. Kelsey Brothers or Manning Brothers?
[59:51]
A
Kelsey, for sure.
[59:52]
B
Cold plunge or hot tub for recovery?
[59:56]
A
Hot tub. But I have a cold plunge, and I'm getting into that.
[60:00]
B
It's something everybody is getting into right now, and I like it. A big night out or cozy night in?
[60:04]
A
Cozy night in.
[60:05]
B
Okay. All right, well, where can the people find you?
[60:08]
A
Well, thanks for having me on. Also, we didn't even talk about UBI and Kylie, Kelsey's podcast. Like, I like, that is actually.
[60:12]
B
Oh, yeah.
[60:13]
A
Incredible.
[60:13]
B
I'm having her on actually here pretty soon, so I'm really excited to talk.
[60:17]
A
With her more, but I'm so obsessed with that.
[60:19]
B
It's crazy because I. I think we're in, like, such a fun place in sports where, like, it's starting to, like, go more into pop culture. So people are not only interested in sports, but there's, like, a reason to like, a certain team. And I love that because I think that, like, it just gives people an excuse to like, watch.
[60:34]
A
You know what I was thinking of if she weren't. If she didn't have you on like episode two or whatever, it would have been like a GBT prediction of like, Allison Cooch is going on, like, needs to go on Kylie Kelsey's podcast. Cause it was such a genius, genius fit.
[60:50]
B
So many people are like, wait, this is like the perfect crossover I was waiting to happen. And it's crazy because we're in the same spaces, but we just hadn't crossed over. And she's like, incredible.
[60:57]
A
No, it makes so much sense. Even just like personality wise.
[60:59]
B
I feel like our personalities are like very the same.
[61:02]
A
Yeah, agreed.
[61:03]
B
And I think it's iconic. But towards the end of the episode, she was like asking me about, like, cat. And I was like, oh, yeah, Like, I have a cat. I have a rag doll cat. And she was like, oh, yeah, like, should I get a cat? And I was like, yeah. And she goes, okay, you signed off. Taylor signed off. And I was like, oh, we're referring to Taylor as like just first name. But I was like, I don't want to talk about Taylor because I know so many people probably ask her about Taylor. So unfortunately, if you listen to the Kylie Kelsey episode, I'm not gonna be asking.
[61:28]
A
Well, also, there's so much more. And I love Taylor. Like, I went to ERA six times. Like, I love Taylor. There's so much more. Well, half of it was brands too, but like, still, I went four times on my own anyway. I literally went to London to go like I went and New Orleans. Like, I'm actually die hard since I was like six. But there's so much more to Kylie Kelsey. Like, I actually think her being asked about Taylor and I love Taylor. Like, there is so much more to Kylie Kelsey then.
[61:51]
B
Then her affiliation with Taylor Swift. Like, right.
[61:53]
A
I would never ask her about that because there's so many other things.
[61:56]
B
Absolutely. And I. I can admire you for saying that because I agree she's amazing.
[62:00]
A
Okay, well, anyway, sorry that I know.
[62:02]
B
Where can people find you?
[62:03]
A
I like start interviewing you. Thanks for having me on. This is so fun. You can find me at Houseguest Podcast. Kenzie Elizabeth. On YouTube. I do like weekly vlogs. We post podcasts every Thursday and then that's like Instagram, Tick tock. As well as Kenzie the Texan. My home brand is friend of mine. Awesome.
[62:20]
B
Well, thank you so much for coming on. Hopefully you learned something about being in your 20s. And even if you're not in your 20s. I feel like you can apply this to any age. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.