Come Over for Dinner!

40 Episodes
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By: Bess Hawthorne

So you've told someone, "Come over for dinner!" What's next? Experienced hosts and hostesses share their best advice for planning a meal to serve and help you with detailed tips so you can re-create their amazing dishes in your own home. You'll learn how to make your home warm and welcoming where your guests have a great time and you do too! Find all of the recipes and must-have kitchen items at www.comeoverfordinner.com!

Allison - Jambalaya
#120
Last Thursday at 12:00 PM

Join Allison Weeks from The Art of Home: A Podcast for Homemakers, where she encourages and inspires others in homemaking. She joins me to discuss how homemaking is something we learn and practice over time. Allison explains backwards planning and emphasizes the importance of flexibility and realistic expectations when it comes to hospitality. As homemakers, we're creating a sense of belonging, not just for our families, but also for the guests we welcome into our homes. Allison shares practical tips on how to do this well. She also talks about a must-have kitchen item you’re going to love—Soup...


Jessica - Pizza or Pasta Night
#119
04/24/2025

Jessica Fisher, host of the blog Good Cheap Eats, shares her top tips for saving time and money when preparing meals. She highlights the importance of shopping sales, using what you have, and stocking your freezer. When having groups over, Jessica's favorite routine is a pasta or pizza night. She discusses tips to make guests feel at home and tools to make the job easier. If you're on a budget, this is an episode you don't want to miss! We're so glad you're here!

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!


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Rebekah Merkle - Special Episode on Easter, Part 2
#118
04/10/2025

Join Bekah Merkle and Bess Hawthorne as we continue to talk about the rich traditions of Easter. This episode features stories that are sure to make you laugh, including an Easter egg hunt gone wrong and the best lamb Bekah ever had that can never be duplicated. And we finally talk about food! Join us as we explore two different menus and share numerous recipes. You're sure to find something to add to your Easter table! 

If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen! In part 1, we discuss practical ways to plan, prepare your h...


Rebekah Merkle - Special Episode on Easter, Part 1
#117
03/27/2025

Join Bekah Merkle and Bess Hawthorne as we explore the culture and traditions of Easter. As the celebration approaches, we discuss practical ways to plan, prepare your heart, and embrace the work with joy. Bekah encourages budgeting cleanup as part of the festivity rather than resenting it. We also consider how Easter celebrations vary across different life stages. And before we wrap up—what should you wear? Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into traditions, gifts, and food! We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!


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Felicity - Chicken, Bacon, and Wild Rice Soup
#116
03/13/2025

Join Felicity Holt as she explores the unique challenges of offering warm and inviting hospitality while navigating a home renovation. She shares how to create an atmosphere of coziness and cheer, even amidst the chaos, and reveals her must-make soup and the apple pie with a delightful twist. Felicity also dives into the importance of planning ahead, getting kids involved in a way that makes hospitality fun, and her top strategies—like setting up a tool station, stocking up on pantry essentials, and shifting the focus away from ourselves. We're so glad you're here! 

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Shelly - Taco Bar
#115
02/27/2025

Join Shelly Perkins as she discusses the action of hospitality - starting with family and extending to every guest. From creating a beautiful, casual, and comfortable atmosphere to hosting an allergy-friendly taco bar, Shelly shares practical tips, including the benefits of a Blackstone outdoor griddle. Plus, what does she mean by "just do the thing"? Tune in to find out and discover why the best compliment is when her home feels like home to someone else. We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!




Lori - Pulled Pork 3 Ways
#114
02/13/2025

Join Lori Harlow to dive into the joys and challenges of hosting guests in your home for more than just an overnight stay. We’ll explore what truly matters (and what doesn’t) when creating a welcoming space, the importance of living in community, and how gratitude and perspective shape the experience. Plus, Lori shares tips on serving delicious meals, and her go-to prep strategy: a meal rotation to save time and reduce stress. Tune in for insights on kitchen tools that help you work smarter, not harder! We're so glad you're here! 

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Jennie Part 2 - Baked Oatmeal and Mexican Quiche
#113
01/30/2025

Join Jennie Jones as we continue to discuss many forms of unconventional hospitality. From hospital meals to moving vans, discover creative ways to meet the needs around you. We’ll discuss how hospitality changes with life’s seasons and ways to help when a person is going through a trial. Jennie shares an easy breakfast-for-dinner menu that works any time of day! She encourages us to be relaxed and let guests be a part of the prep. Don't miss her recommended desserts! We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!


Jennie - Baked Oatmeal and Mexican Quiche
#112
01/16/2025

Join Jennie Jones as we discuss many forms of unconventional hospitality. From hospital meals to moving vans, discover creative ways to meet the needs around you. We’ll discuss how hospitality changes with life’s seasons and ways to help when a person is going through a trial. Jennie shares an easy breakfast-for-dinner menu that works any time of day! She encourages us to be relaxed and let guests be a part of the prep. Don't miss her recommended desserts! We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!


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Jen - Hysa House Instant Pot Taco Chicken or Spaghetti for a Crowd
#111
01/02/2025

Join Jen Carlson as she shares the faithfulness of God through life's trials and encourages simple, heartfelt hospitality. Even if you're not a natural planner, Jen offers easy practical tips for creating simple yet delicious recipes that can feed a crowd. Jen gives advice on creating a welcoming space with interior design ideas, cozy lighting, and good music. Plus, she shares how her hospitality influencers inspired her along the way. You'll be inspired too! We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!




Danielle - Zuppa Toscana Soup
#110
12/19/2024

Join Danielle van den Dolder from Australia as she shares her warm and welcoming approach to hospitality! Danielle talks about how her church cares for visitors, the charming Dutch tradition of eating cake first, and a hot tip for perfect caramel frosting. Plus, she reveals a delicious meal she serves and offers tips on welcoming people into your life. With plenty of laughs, kitchen item recommendations, and a look at Christmas down under, this episode is one you don't want to miss! Merry Christmas! We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, a...


Melissa - Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits, Part 2
#109
12/05/2024

Join Melissa Cross, a culinary teacher at Geneva Academy, as she shares insights from her cooking classes for seniors and the heartwarming "orphan" Thanksgiving and Easter she hosts for those without family nearby. Melissa and her husband have used homes of all sizes to practice hospitality over the years, and in this episode, she discusses fun games and prizes for kids, easy-to-make recipes, and how to make gatherings memorable. From tips on timing meals to fostering family fellowship and involving guests in the kitchen, you don't want to miss all of Melissa's practical tips, favorite kitchen items, and more...


Melissa - Island Spiced Pork Tenderloin
#108
11/21/2024

Join Melissa Cross, a culinary teacher at Geneva Academy, as she shares insights from her cooking classes for seniors and the heartwarming "orphan" Thanksgiving and Easter she hosts for those without family nearby. Melissa and her husband have used homes of all sizes to practice hospitality over the years, and in this episode, she discusses fun games and prizes for kids, easy-to-make recipes, and how to make gatherings memorable. From tips on timing meals to fostering family fellowship and involving guests in the kitchen, you don't want to miss all of Melissa's practical tips, favorite kitchen items, and more...


Adriano Zumbo - Special Episode with Australia's Renowned Pastry Chef
#107
11/07/2024

Join Adriano Zumbo as we discuss his path to becoming a celebrity pastry chef. Known as "The Sweet Assassin," Adriano has been a guest chef on over a dozen seasons of MasterChef Australia, a contestant on Dessert Masters, a judge on Netflix's reality series, Sugar Rush, and hosted Zumbo's Just Desserts, a competitive baking show. He has owned shops, written books, taught classes, and been a brand ambassador. He has recently created the menu for QTea, a high tea at the QT hotel in Sydney. Zumbo is known for his technically challenging desserts that often feature unique flavor fusions...


Meg - Menus from a Gourmet Supper Club
#106
10/24/2024

Join Meg Hixson as she discusses a gourmet supper club she and her husband joined while stationed at an Air Force Base in Texas. She began her journey learning the art of hospitality from her family and church ladies as they passed on the Swedish culture and a love for trying new things. Taking this creativity to the Air Force, Meg was able to bloom where she was planted and jumped straight into hospitality for her new neighbors and friends. She dives into the rich history of this unique supper club, which has thrived for decades thanks to the...


Becca - Slow Cooker Honey Apple Pork Loin
#105
10/10/2024

Join Becca Esmond as she discusses the challenges and rewards of foster care. She reveals the surprises and the joys she's experienced along the way. We discuss how this applies to hospitality and share how to create an allergen-friendly menu that’s both easy and delicious. Becca emphasizes that hospitality is worthwhile to do even if everything isn't perfect. We discuss when to accept help and include guests in your work if they offer. Plus, she shares her top kitchen essentials and two stories you won't want to miss! We're so glad you're here! 

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Nancy Wilson - Special Episode on How to be a Good Guest!
#104
09/26/2024

Join Nancy Wilson and Bess Hawthorne as we discuss the art of being a thoughtful guest at any occasion—from weddings and baby showers to dinner parties. We’ll cover everything you need to know: preparing kids for events, the importance of supervision (be a snooperviser!), essential etiquette tips, table manners, handling allergies, and more. Discover whether you should help with the dishes and what a fright room is! Most importantly, we’ll emphasize being gracious, kind, and how to "just roll with it". Tune in for all the insights you need to be a great guest! We're so glad y...


Jemima - Macaroni and Cheese, Part 2
#103
09/12/2024

Join Jemima Dixon as she discusses her time at Le Cordon Bleu, in London, England. You'll hear the valuable lessons she learned throughout the program and how the training has shaped her cooking habits. Jemima will challenge you to consider the difference between meal prep vs actual cooking and the importance of planning meals according to a timeline. Discover why it’s perfectly fine if your food isn’t ready the moment guests arrive and learn about the handy concept of a trash bowl for keeping your workspace tidy. Jemima will also share expert tips on cooking meat, reveal the...


Jemima - Macaroni and Cheese
#102
08/29/2024

Join Jemima Dixon as she discusses her time at Le Cordon Bleu, in London, England. You'll hear the valuable lessons she learned throughout the program and how the training has shaped her cooking habits. Jemima will challenge you to consider the difference between meal prep vs actual cooking and the importance of planning meals according to a timeline. Discover why it’s perfectly fine if your food isn’t ready the moment guests arrive and learn about the handy concept of a trash bowl for keeping your workspace tidy. Jemima will also share expert tips on cooking meat, reveal the...


Joshua and Sara - Greek Pork Kebabs with Tzatziki and Grilled Peppers
#101
08/15/2024

Join Joshua and Sara Appel, as they delve into the essence of hospitality and how to make it a seamless part of your life. From involving guests in meal prep to finding a meal to do on repeat, they share their insights on how to build relationships and warmth of friendship through routinely saying "welcome". Tune in to hear about their flavorful Greek menu, top picks for olive oil and salt, and a treasure trove of tips for your home. Don’t miss out on this thought-provoking conversation full of practical advice and inspiration! We're so glad you're here!

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Angela - Pho (Vietnamese Chicken Soup)
#100
08/01/2024

Join Angela Smith, creator of Inquisicook Culinary Science, as she shares her journey of starting a homeschool class centered around the science of cooking. From an easy, allergy-friendly dish bursting with flavor to super-fast desserts and the secret to perfectly crispy chicken, Angela discusses a lot of practical tips and delicious recipes. Discover how she creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere with zero-waste centerpieces and planned activities for younger guests, ensuring everyone feels at home. Angela also reveals her top recommended kitchen items and a story that demonstrates the joy that comes from bringing people together, mishaps and all! We're...


Sena - Wild-caught Alaskan Fish
#99
07/18/2024

Join Sena Wheeler from Sena Sea as she dives into the world of deep-sea fishing, a tradition spanning five generations in her family. Discover the numerous benefits of eating wild-caught fish, with a special focus on the prized Copper River salmon. Sena shares her expertise on cooking various types of fish, offering delicious recipes and essential tips on defrosting frozen fish. Learn how to introduce kids to the taste of fish and hear how Sena's own children have grown up helping in the family business. With stories and insights drawn from years of experience, Sena offers a behind-the-scenes look...


Landon Bryant from Landon Talks - Special Episode on Southern Hospitality
#98
07/16/2024

Join Landon Bryant (@landontalks) as he explores the heart of Southern hospitality, delving into its rich culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and captivating history. From the cherished tradition of Sunday lunch to the art of organizing a Southern gathering, we discuss why these traditions matter. Discover the warmth and generosity that define Southern hospitality through Landon's stories and see which uniquely Southern words and phrases we think should be embraced nationwide. Whether you're a born-and-bred Southerner or a curious outsider, Landon invites you to savor the flavors, embrace the traditions, and appreciate the spirit of the South. We're so glad you're...


Anna - Pasta Alla Vodka with Homemade Noodles, Paella, or Chicken Gyros!
#97
07/04/2024

Join Anna Esmond, mom of young children, as she discusses creative ways to maximize nap time and how to teach kids hospitality and service. She shares mouthwatering menu ideas and a simple yet delicious make-ahead dessert. Along with practical tips for engaging toddler helpers and a humorous mishap from an eager young helper in her kitchen, Anna invites listeners to learn from the experienced women in your circle. Discover one of her favorite cookbooks and kid-friendly music, delve into the benefits of joining the Bible Reading Challenge, uncover essential kitchen tools, and hear a story that will leave you...


Jessica - Avocado Chicken Salad
#96
06/20/2024

Join Jessica Simon, seasoned host of church community groups and Sunday night summer dinners, as she shares mouthwatering summer menu ideas. We delve into tips for deboning chicken, using gluten free flour, and ways to best prepare for your guests. Jessica encourages us to jump into hospitality doing it so often we don't have time to be scared of it. Ever have guests show up and you're still in slippers? She has a tip for that too! After recommending frequently used kitchen items, we tell stories. This episode is a lot of fun, and you don't want to miss...


Loraine - Wareneki
#95
06/06/2024

Join Loraine Wahl as she discusses a favorite place to find recipes, a delicious breakfast that can be made in large quantities, and a special German meal. She introduces a helpful cookbook with recipes reminiscent of those enjoyed by German Mennonites in southern Ukraine. Learn tips on stocking up and storing food, ways kids can help in the kitchen, and hear about Loraine's unique conversation starter at home. We wrap up with some of her favorite kitchen items and stories. You don't want to miss this episode! We're so glad you're here! 

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Summer break is here!
#95
05/23/2024

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Micah - Shrimp and Grits
#94
05/16/2024

Join Micah McCoy, a seasoned baker and pastry chef with a restaurant background, as she brings her culinary expertise to home food management for feeding a large family and guests. Micah shares insights on meal planning, pantry management, and kitchen execution. She gives tips on jobs for small helpers, ways to welcome guests, and what you should ask them to bring. You'll hear all about a delicious southern menu, some great kitchen tool recommendations, and entertaining kitchen disaster stories from her many years of experience. We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product l...


Ben and and Stacey - Pizza!
#93
05/09/2024

Join Ben and Stacey Bowen, owners of a portable brick oven capable of cooking a pizza in a minute, as they share their expertise of pizza creation on a large scale. From unique pizza toppings to top secret recipes, you'll hear all about making pizza for dinner and dessert! Discover their tips on sourcing ingredients, the essential equipment needed, and much more. Plus, stay tuned for their invaluable hospitality advice, including how to keep it easy on yourself, take the party outdoors, involve little ones in greeting guests, and create an atmosphere that welcomes both parents and kids alike...


Annie - Tri-tip and Chimichurri Sauce Part 2
#92
05/02/2024

Join Annie Rench as she discusses her healthy yet flavor-packed menu. She shares tips on the benefits of shopping and prepping early, involving the kids without taking on a Queen of England atittude, and teaching them to make Bento boxes with macronutrients. Annie discusses the pros and cons of drinks and appetizers, the importance of communication with your family before you welcome guests and how to show guests you're happy they're there. Stay tuned to the end to hear a hilarious hostess's worst nightmare story that will have you laughing with us. We're so glad you're here! 

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Annie - Tri-tip and Chimichurri Sauce
#91
04/25/2024

Join Annie Rench, a fitness and nutrition expert who shares her secrets to raising a healthy family despite a very busy schedule. She gives us valuable insight into how this fits into hospitality. Annie answers the question, "What if I have no time?" and discusses why strengthening is so important. You'll learn what an "exercise snack" or "trigger session" entails and why you need it in the extreme sport of motherhood! We talk about the benefits of electrolytes, the joy of feasting versus everyday nourishment, and strategies for ensuring your kids eat well too. Packed with wisdom and encouragement...


Jessica - Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta
#90
04/18/2024

Join Jessica Horning as she delves into the art of hospitality with small children, including a tip discovered from hosting a weekly Bible study. Along with the knowledge learned from running a business centered on sourdough, Jessica shares a mouthwatering meal perfect for any occasion. She discusses the benefits of monthly meal planning and the importance of intentional inquisitiveness during conversations. Don't miss the recommended must-have kitchen items at the end and a story that may take the grand prize! We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!


Michal - Stovetop London Broil
#89
04/11/2024

Join Michal Carnahan as she discusses what it's like to cook for kids. With her delicious menu, even the pickiest eaters will be won over. Discover her secrets for shopping for meat on a budget as well as storage and defrosting techniques. From building a stockpile of meat in the freezer to mastering the art of proper thawing, Michal shares invaluable tips along with a "don't do this at home, kids" story! You'll also learn practical strategies to prevent frazzle like getting your family involved and serving pre-dinner drinks. We're so glad you're here! 

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Bettye - Chicken Fajitas
#88
04/04/2024

Join Bettye Nix as she discusses the impact of being invited into someone's home and the importance of laughter in creating friendships. She offers practical tips from making extra food, so there's always plenty to share to ways to make your guests comfortable. Bettye shares how her love of games has created a lot of fun times over the years and why she has a stash of toys handy. You'll hear about a thoughtful gift she gives her guests and some great stories from her many years of hospitality. We're so glad you're here! 


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Serena - Freezer Meals
#87
03/28/2024

Serena Hawthorne joins me for a special episode discussing freezer meals! Whether you're a busy parent, a working professional, or simply looking to save time in the kitchen, freezer meals are a game-changer. In this episode, we explore freezer-friendly recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beyond, offering hot tips on the best containers to use, how long your favorite meals will last in the freezer, and a must-have kitchen item to make your freezer meal prep a breeze. We're so glad you're here!

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!



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Carla - Neighborhood Hospitality
#86
03/21/2024

With summer quickly approaching, Carla Courtney and I discuss all the challenges of neighborhood hospitality. We talk ground rules, budgeting, fun activities, and why you need a bubble machine. Carla shares ways to get your kids involved in helping, thoughts on park days and library boxes, and why you need clear TV rules. Recipes for snacks and homemade bubbles are included! We're so glad you're here! 

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!




Betsy - Pulled BBQ Pork
#85
03/14/2024

Join Betsy Becker, wife, mother, and owner of Salt Bakery, as she shares inspirational ideas for hospitality from supporting her husband's work through hosting open invitation crew dinners to organizing a lively summer block party and serving up delectable Sunday charcuterie boards. Betsy discusses ways to bless every guest who enters our homes including loving them through little things and how to make welcoming guests achievable and appealing. Stay tuned for her favorite must-have kitchen items! We're so glad you're here!

Visit www.comeoverfordinner.com for recipes, product links, and more!




Chris - Chili and Cinnamon Rolls
#84
03/07/2024

Join Chris LaMoreaux, a church secretary for 37 years, as she shares loads of hospitality encouragement starting with her time as a mom with children at home. From the blessing of meals after life-changing events like welcoming a new baby or recovering from surgery to cooking disasters while pregnant, Chris shares stories that will inspire and make you laugh. You'll hear of a unique flavor combination that is sure to please all ages. Plus she shares thoughts on the convenience of grocery delivery and some practical tips on reducing stress in the kitchen so you can be ready to welcome...


Valerie - Easy Mulligatawny
#83
02/29/2024

Today's guest, Valerie Austin, tells the story of her time at L'Abri Fellowship in Switzerland. Inspired by the Schaeffers, she studied and worked at L'Abri, learning firsthand the transformative power of Edith Schaeffer's emphasis on hospitality. From serving meals to 40-50 students and families on a shoestring budget to now showing hospitality as a pastor's wife in West Chicago, this episode discusses the impact hospitality has on the people in a community. Valerie encourages us to never make assumptions about our guests sharing a hilarious story that will emphasize her point. Think through flowers, music, and clear invitations and...


Anna - Mary Berry's Quick Chicken Curry
#82
02/22/2024

Today's guest, Anna Ayling, has a unique perspective on hospitality through raising a family and her mission work in Japan and Wales. Join us as she discusses the British take on Indian food, the importance of utilizing the oven and freezer in your prep, and the 80/20 cleaning rule that will speed up getting ready for guests. You'll hear Anna's thoughts on laying out clear expectations for guests, inviting people into your everyday life, and how formality creates distance. Stay tuned to hear all about her perfect recipe organization system! We're so glad you're here!

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