Summary

In this episode, hosts Melissa and Brittany reflect on their journey through the first season, discussing plans for season two. They share insights on hosting, planning for dinner parties, and the importance of intention over perfection. Special guest Sara McDaniel discusses her experience in restoring historic homes and new projects, Phillips Cottage and Purvey Minden. The hosts share personal stories about childhood homes and reflect on the meaningful connections we have with our homes. The conversation touches on projects and events for the hosts, ending with an emphasis on the importance of personal growth.

Highlights:

• Ina’s pre-dinner party prep schedule
• Follow our guest Sara on Instagram @simplysoutherncottage.
• Brittany’s Sentimental Style Starter Kit. Get the kit HERE.
• Melissa’s “Merry Month of Maine” – sign up to receive a postcard from her in August!
• Bless It: Melissa’s Majhong Mats by Catherine White Art
• Bless It: follow Brittany on Instagram for more on her appearance at the Beautiful Table Settings Bash in January 2026

Takeaways

• Season two will focus on holiday and fall themes.
• Hosting can be stressful, but planning helps alleviate anxiety (tips from Ina Garten).
• Gracious hospitality is about intention, not perfection.
• Planning ahead for dinner parties can reduce stress.
• Sara McDaniel of Simply Southern Cottage shares her journey of restoring historic homes.
• The recent pandemic seems to have shifted our focus back to meaningful home spaces.
• Personal connections to homes often stem from family history.
• Creating a cozy home environment enhances our well-being.
• Social media can help build connections around home and decor.
• Grace is necessary during transitions in life.

Contact The Sentimental Twist:

Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast.

Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com.

Follow the Co-Hosts:

• Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.
• Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist: Episode 10 (Season 1 Finale!)

02:50 Hosting & Gracious Hospitality: Planning Ahead to Avoid Hosting Stress

13:55 Embracing August: A Personal Reflection

19:41 Guest Interview: Sara McDaniel of Simply Southern Cottage

48:49 Nostalgia and Renovation: Childhood Homes Revisited

56:23 Why We Crave Meaningful Spaces

59:58 Bless It We Had to Share: Mahjong Mats & Learning to Play

01:03:12 Bless It, We Had to Share: Beautiful Table Settings Bash 2026

01:08:04 Porch Talk Speed Round

01:16:56 From the Desks of Melissa & Brittany: Plans During the Off Season

01:21:52 A Toast to Sentiment: Giving Yourself Grace in Whatever Season You're In