The Sentimental Twist

Brittany | The Sentimental Decorator
  • 5.0 (24)
  • Home & Garden

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

  1. 1d ago

    Season 4 | Episode 4: The Joy of Handwritten Letters Guest Interview with Shannon Howard

    Summary In this episode, Brittany and Melissa talk about the seasons we’re in...on the calendar and in life. A listener email reminds us that every season has a purpose, even the hard ones. Then Melissa talks with Shannon Howard, founder of Dear & Always and Heirloom Letters Studio, about preserving the stories through handwritten letters. Shannon explains how these letters can become heirlooms and how to get started simply. It’s a conversation about slowing down, writing things down, and recognizing that the stories we leave behind matter. Highlights: Guest: Shannon HowardDear & Always: https://www.dearandalways.comHeirloom Letters Studio: https://www.heirloomlettersstudio.comInstagram: @dearandalways https://www.instagram.com/dearandalways/Instagram: @heirloomlettersstudio https://www.instagram.com/heirloomlettersstudio/Melissa's Bless It: Friday Finds Vintage https://www.instagram.com/fridayfindsvintage/Melissa's Bless It: Beautiful Table Settings Bash in Vicksburg, Mississippi — Brittany and Melissa will both be speaking in January! https://www.btsvicksburgbash.comBrittany's Bless It: Beehive Meals freezer-to-slow-cooker meal delivery at https://www.beehivemeals.comListener Giveaway: Shannon is gifting one listener a keepsake letter-writing system! Listen to the episode for details on how to enter! Takeaways Every season has a purpose, even the ones we wouldn't choose.The seasons of our lives deserve to be acknowledged, not rushed through.An heirloom's story can be just as valuable as the object itself.You don't have to document everything. Start with one meaningful object.Handwritten letters can become heirlooms in their own right.Don't assume the next generation knows the stories you've always known.The words we write aren't only for someday; reflecting and writing them can be meaningful for us now, too.Start with the story that matters most to you, not necessarily the most valuable thing you own. Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube. Chapters 00:05 Welcome to Season 4, Episode 4 of The Sentimental Twist! 03:27 Reader Email: Savoring Each Season 13:14 Porch Talk Speed Round 30:38 Guest Interview Shannon Howard from Dear & Always 01:15:09 Bless It, We Had to Share It 01:23:08 A Toast to Sentiment

  2. Aug 13

    Season 4 | Episode 3: A 2nd Act for Dishes Guest Interview with Marieli from Tiers of Joy

    Summary In this episode, Brittany and Melissa answer a listener's question about making dinner parties easier when cooking the main course isn't your strength (spoiler: outsourcing absolutely counts!), take a nostalgic trip through childhood stores during Porch Talk, and share a few things they're loving right now. Melissa sits down with Marieli, founder of Tiers of Joy, whose beautiful tiered stands give vintage, new, and heirloom dishes a whole new purpose. Marieli shares how her business began, the care that goes into transforming treasured pieces, and why meaningful entertaining doesn't require a cabinet full of fine china. It's a conversation about using what you have, giving treasured things new life, and remembering that hospitality is less about having the “right” things and more about making room for beauty, story, and connection. Highlights: Guest: Marieli Cruzado from Tiers of JoyInstagram: @tiersofjoy.txMelissa’s Bless It: Southern Living Insiders Brittany’s Bless It: The Storykeeper’s Shelf + Quiz Renee from @lucybettynjune  Melissa’s Poppyseed Chicken RecipeAlexandra Stoddard’s Daring to Be Yourself Takeaways Hosting doesn't mean making everything yourself.Time counts as an ingredient, too.Old dishes can have a second act.Beautiful entertaining can start with just a few pieces.Use beautiful serveware beyond the table.The stories behind our belongings are worth capturing now.Create a home that “smiles” at you. Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.Chapters 00:05 Welcome to Episode 3 of Season 4 of TST! 02:44 Reader Email: Entree Ideas When Hosting 11:28 Porch Talk Speed Round 25:18 Guest Interview: Marieli from Tiers of Joy! 26:21 Guest Interview with Marieli from Tiers of Joy 01:17:21 Takeaways from Marieli's Interview 01:25:21 Bless It, We Had to Share It 01:31:46 A Toast to Sentiment: Does Your Home Smile?

  3. Aug 6

    Season 4 | Episode 2: The Art of Embracing Imperfection, Reviving Silver, and Preserving Family Recipes

    Summary In this episode, Brittany and Melissa discuss the soft launch into fall in their homes. They also explore how embracing the charm of aged silver and handwritten family recipes can make your home feel more personal and welcoming. They share practical tips for incorporating tarnished silver into everyday decor and transforming treasured recipes into meaningful heirlooms, all celebrating life’s beautiful imperfections. Cheers to the good old days being made today! Let's gather what’s meaningful, honor imperfections, and create stories worth passing down. Highlights: Favorite Fall Home Fragrances:Candle Bath & Body Works Leaves Pura Welcome Home Pura Sandalwood VanillaHappy Wax Melts Autumn SetCandle Nest Fall ClassicsKelli’s Silver Guide on Instagram - Expert advice for caring for your silverBrittany’s Bless It: Mama Dawn’s Creamed Corn “Recipe”Ingredients1 pt shucked/creamed cornButterGrease2 cups waterSaltInstrutionsPut in oven with 2 cups of water to start off with. Add salt, grease, butter (keep soft). Cooks on 350° for 30-40 minutes.Melissa’s Bless It: Personality Plates on Instagram - Adorable personality-themed dishwareVintage Dish & Tell Book by Sarah Peterson - Inspiration for creating family recipe books ; Website: www.vintagedishandtell.com  Takeaways: The need to rush fall and simple ways to soft launch your home into the fall seasonThe cultural shift away from using silver daily and how to bring it back into your lifeSimple ways to use mismatched or tarnished silver for decor and hospitalityMyths about tarnish and how to care for silver without stressCreative ideas for turning family recipes into treasured keepsake cookbooksHow fragrances and seasonal transitions set the mood in home decorTips for hosting with charm and making guests feel truly welcomeEmotional value of handwritten recipes and family stories passed through foodEmbracing today as the good old daysDon’t wait for perfect to start using heirloom silver; embrace the patina and charmDocument family recipes early, including stories and photos, to preserve legacyTurn everyday moments into celebrations of love, tradition, and home Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube. Chapters: 00:05 Welcome to Season 4, Episode 2! 04:01 The Soft Transition to Fall 13:16 Porch Talk Speed Round 26:30 What To Do With Silver Nobody Polishes Anymore 35:08 Bless It, We Had to Share It 42:17 Turning a Loved One’s Recipes Into a Cookbook 55:46 A Toast to Sentiment: The Good Ole Days are Right Now

  4. Jul 30

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

    Summary In this episode of The Sentimental Twist, hosts Brittany and Melissa reconnect after a long break, sharing their experiences of meeting in person for the first time, discussing their summer adventures, and reflecting on the impact of social media on their friendship. In this engaging conversation, Brittany and Melissa share their summer experiences, from humorous mishaps with kitchen appliances to the joys of secondhand shopping. They discuss the importance of savoring the remaining summer days, exploring farmers markets, and creating memorable family traditions. They talk about the value of simple summer rituals, such as enjoying fresh produce and spending time by the pool, while also planning exciting activities to make the most of the season before it ends. Brittany and Melissa share various themes related to summer living, including quick tips for hosting, summer reading recommendations, and engaging with listeners about everyday rituals.  Highlights: Melissa's Homeworthy Home TourBrittany's Homeworthy FeatureMelissa's Bless It: In Good Taste WinesMelissa's Hurry Up & Host GuideBrittany's Bless It: Lavender Steam Eye MasksMelissa's Bless It: Rustic Branch Tulip TopsEmail us at thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com with your favorite summer memory, a hosting question, or your favorite creamed corn or peach ice cream recipe!Takeaways Summer rituals, like enjoying flowers and pool time, enhance the season's enjoyment.Planning activities before school starts helps maximize summer fun.Simple joys, like making homemade ice cream, are cherished summer traditions.Engaging in seasonal activities fosters a deeper connection to the present.Hosting doesn't have to be complicated; quick tips can save the day.Seasonal living encourages us to appreciate the present.Everyday rituals can make ordinary days feel special. Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.Chapters 00:05 Welcome to SEASON 4 of The Sentimental Twist 03:31 Finally Meeting In Real Life 12:15 Our Summers So Far 24:33 Savoring Summer: Making the Most of Memories & Traditions 31:24 Our Top 3 Summer To-Dos 39:38 Summer Rituals: Simple Joys and Celebrations 46:28 Porch Talk Speed Round 55:42 Bless It, We Had to Share It: New Finds and Recommendations 01:01:55 A Toast to Sentiment: Stop Wishing the Seasons Away

  5. Jun 11 ·  Bonus

    BONUS Episode of The Sentimental Twist: When Internet Friends Meet IRL

    Summary We finally did it.  After years of talking online through Instagram, texts, Zoom, and podcast recording, Brittany and Melissa finally meet in real life. And it was every bit as fun, funny, and heartwarming as you'd expect! In this bonus episode, we're sharing stories from our weekend together, from first hugs and home tours to good food, meaningful conversations, and all the little moments that made us feel like we'd been friends forever. Along the way, we chat about hospitality, making people feel at home, decorating with the things you love, and why authentic connection matters so much in a world that often stays behind a screen. Think of this episode as a cozy catch-up with friends. Pull up a chair and join us. Highlights: Email us thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gamil.com! Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube. Chapters 00:00 Meeting in Real Life: A Special Episode 03:03 The Journey of Friendship: From Online to Offline 05:58 First Impressions and Surprises 08:06 Culinary Adventures: Boiled Peanuts and More 11:02 On Brand Moments: Hosting and Personal Touches 13:59 Rapid Fire Questions: Getting to Know Each Other 17:12 Current Obsessions: Gardening and Home Improvements 36:00 Porch Talk: Melissa & Brittany Edition

  6. Apr 30

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

    Summary In the Season 3 Finale of The Sentimental Twist, hosts Melissa and Brittany share an interview with guest Lizzie Post, co-president of the Emily Post Institute. Lizzie talks about her great-grandmother’s legacy and shares timeless etiquette principles, modern adaptations, and practical tips for hosting and social interactions. The conversation leads to how consideration, respect, and honesty shape gracious behavior across generations and cultures. Melissa and Brittany also discuss their takeaways and personal stories, along with tips for being a gracious host and a gracious guest.  Highlights: Guest Lizzie PostEmily Post Institute website Instagram Podcast Awesome Etiquette Melissa’s Reality TV Show Debut: Netflix’s The Million Dollar Secret Brittany’s Bless It: Janet’s Honeycomb Collection Waitlist Melissa’s Bless It: Holidays Jewelry Work with Brittany:  Details Here  Email us thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com for a chance to win the Mind Your Manners game!Takeaways The Emily Post Institute believes that modern etiquette considers both principles and mannersPrinciples of etiquette are consideration, respect, and honesty. They stand the test of time and can cross cultural boundaries.Manners are time sensitive, vary from culture to culture, and can look different for different social groups. You have to learn the proper manners for the situations you are in.Being a great guest means arriving with awareness, bringing positive energy, and engaging thoughtfully with others rather than simply showing up.Being a great host requires quiet attentiveness like reading the room, guiding the flow, and anticipating needs without drawing attention to it.Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Season 3 Finale of The Sentimental Twist! 02:36 Guest Interview with Lizzie Post from The Emily Post Institute 50:55 Unspoken Etiquette of Being a Guest 56:38 Unspoken Etiquette of Being a Host 01:07:34 Porch Talk Speed Round 01:24:39 Reader Email: Hosting Challenges and Solutions 01:33:52 Bless It, We Had to Share It 01:43:31 A Toast to Sentiment: Hospitality 01:45:33 Until next season...

  7. Apr 23

    Season 3 | Episode 9: Hospitality as Caring for Others + Guest Interview with Lydia Menzies

    Summary In this episode, hosts Melissa and Brittany share an interview with Lydia Menzies, a hospitality and hosting expert. Lydia shares her journey from childhood traditions to building a thriving Supper Club community. Discover practical tips for creating memorable gatherings, personalized touches, and the importance of hosting with intention. Lydia shares insights on creating memorable supper clubs, the power of storytelling through objects, and how to host with intention and care. Brittany and Melissa discuss takeaway from the interview, community building, and the importance of hospitality in everyday life.  ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK*** Highlights: Guest Lydia Menzies:website Instagram book Supper Club membership Melissa’s Reality TV Show Debut: Netflix’s The Million Dollar Secret  Brittany’s Bless It: The Heart-Shaped Tin book Melissa’s Bless It: L’Oreal Infallible Finishing Spray Work with Brittany: Brittany is now offering consulting for home and lifestyle creators who want to grow beyond social media and build a more sustainable, owned business. Details Here  Takeaways You can bring guests into your gathering by involving them in thoughtful ways and considering their needs, preferences, and season of life before they arrive.The most meaningful gatherings are not about impressing your guests, but about helping them feel seen, included, and genuinely cared for.Small, intentional details like a favorite dish, a kind note, or thoughtful seating often have a greater impact than one big, elaborate element.Letting go of perfection allows you to create a more relaxed, welcoming environment where real connection can take center stage.Creating a beautiful environment for others is worth the effort when it reflects love, care, and intention rather than a desire to impress.Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 38:53 Guest Interview: Lydia Menzies & The Supper Club 40:58 Our Hosting Takeaways from Lydia's Interview 50:17 Porch Talk Speed Round 01:02:02 What's New with the Ladies of TST? 01:17:27 Bless It, We Had to Share It 01:22:26 A Toast to Sentiment: Hospitality & Caring for Others

  8. Apr 16

    Season 3 | Episode 8: How to Create Meaningful Spaces without Buying New

    Summary In this episode, hosts Melissa and Brittany explore the art of decorating with sentimentality, reimagining your home through storytelling, and the joy of shopping your own space. They talk about practical tips for refreshing your home without spending a dime and learn how to create meaningful moments with what you already have. ***Please complete our listener survey: LINK*** Highlights: Brittany’s Bless It: Rose Dawn Camellia Japonica from NancyThe Storykeepers Circle  Melissa’s Digital Store  Melissa’s Bless It: Heirloom Roses Alexandra Stoddard’s Living a Beautiful Life Takeaways You can redecorate and redesign your home without shopping for new pieces.Shopping your home for decor allows you to freshen spaces without spending a dime.Creating a meaningful home is about showcasing your family stories through your decor.Restyling and repurposing items is a great way to use meaningful things you don’t know what to do with.Seasonal rotation is a fun way to freshen your home when it feels stale.Think creatively when it comes to the organization of your seasons and everyday home decor.Rituals and intentional living make life beautiful and meaningful.Contact The Sentimental Twist: Follow The Sentimental Twist on Instagram @thesentimentaltwistpodcast. Email: thesentimentaltwistpodcast@gmail.com. Follow the Co-Hosts: Brittany: @brittanyshepard and www.thesentimentaldecorator.com and YouTube.Melissa: @homewithatwist and www.homewithatwist.com and YouTube.Chapters 00:00 Welcome to The Sentimental Twist Season 3, Episode 8 04:31 Meaningful Spaces: Decorate Your Home Without Buying New 27:17 Porch Talk Speed Round 41:25 Bless It, We Had to Share It 45:05 A Toast to Sentiment: The Beauty of Everyday Rituals

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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Brittany | The Sentimental Decorator
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sentimental Twist
  • Show Website
    The Sentimental Twist

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