Hey, Reader! Do you remember the pure magic of the holidays — when twinkle lights and sugar cookies made the whole world feel bright? Let’s bring that back. 🎁 The Elves’ Workshop Summit (Nov 18–20) is your chance to reconnect with your creative spark and fill your home (and heart) with handmade joy. From crafting ornaments and baking cookies to making cocktails and wrapping gifts like a pro — you’ll get it all inside this free, 3-day online event. I’ll be teaching Merry Mixology Made Easy:...
2 days ago • 1 min read
easy, elegant entertaining This email may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Hey, Reader! I love the idea of Friendsgiving. I mean, I'll take any excuse to get together with some of my favorite people before the holiday craziness sets in, but an organized event makes things extra special. There's just something about sharing good food and good drinks with good company. And while wine is fine, a celebration...
4 days ago • 2 min read
Hey, Reader! It's been a while since I've shown my face around here, so I thought it’d be a good time to re-introduce myself. 👋 I’m Susannah, a cocktail (and mocktail!) blogger and graphic designer from Charlotte, North Carolina — and I’m so glad you’re here. Here’s a little peek behind the shaker: I’ve been writing Feast + West since 2014, sharing approachable cocktail, mocktail and coffee recipes that make everyday moments a little more special. 🍹 My ideal cozy night in during the holidays?...
5 days ago • 1 min read
easy, elegant entertaining This email may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Hey, Reader! Fall is all about gatherings. Whether it's getting together to cheer on your favorite team or sitting around the Thanksgiving table, there are plenty of chances to enjoy those you care about. For any big groups, you're going to want a go-to big batch recipe. Trust me, the last thing you want to be doing is spending the...
6 days ago • 2 min read
Hey, Reader, Something magical is coming your way! I’m teaching at the Elves’ Workshop Summit happening November 18–20, 2025 — a free, 3-day virtual event filled with expert-led workshops on cooking, decorating, gifting and entertaining. I’ll be teaching Merry Mixology Made Easy: No-Fuss Cocktails, Mocktails & Party Tricks — my no stress, mix-and-match framework for memorable holiday drinks at any gathering. Whether it's Friendsgiving, a company holiday party, cookie decorating, Christmas...
7 days ago • 1 min read
easy, elegant entertaining This email may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Hey, Reader! Ready or not, we're heading into the holiday season. Luckily I have so many festive recipes to help make your gatherings merry & bright that I just can't wait to share! We're kicking things off with a few cranberry cocktails for your holiday celebrations. These dark red beauties pack a punch of sweetness and tartness...
8 days ago • 2 min read
easy, elegant entertaining This email may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Hey, Reader! One drink you're almost sure to see on a cocktail menu? An old-fashioned. Whiskey, simple syrup, orange zest, cherry and bitters come together to create this iconic boozy beverage (my favorite part is probably the cocktail cherry.) Despite the name, this classic drink is anything but old news. It's a fun one to...
11 days ago • 2 min read
Hey, Reader, We're in that in-between stretch before the holidays — where the air's crisp and you want to be cozy, but the calendar fills fast and life still needs to happen. My friend Gen from Two Cloves Kitchen made a free 1-page Sheet Pan Dinner Builder that's perfect for this time of year. It helps you plan cozy, low-stress meals that feel special without taking over your evening. Inside, you'll find: cooking times and temps for proteins and veggies easy mix-and-match combos to keep...
12 days ago • 1 min read
easy, elegant entertaining This email may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Hey, Reader! Whenever I'm entertaining, I have a mocktail option on the menu. It gives those underage, driving or who simply prefer not to imbibe something to enjoy outside of just water or soda. There are also some occasions where mocktails just fit the vibe better than an actual cocktail. Luckily, skipping the booze doesn't mean...
13 days ago • 1 min read