'The Great American Cookbook Competition': Get to Know Linnyette

Linnyette Richardson-Hall
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland

Proposed Book Title: HousePARTY: The ART of Entertaining At Home

Book Concept: HousePARTY: The ART Of Entertaining At Home, a lovely tome that’s all about how to throw simply awesome gatherings all in the comfort of YOUR casa complete with some pretty tasty recipes as well as guides on planning, décor and serious party strategies from start to finish!!

I have planned beautiful weddings and parties for the past 21 years but some of you may know me as “TheWeddingDIVA,” the no-nonsense planner from Style Network’s hit scripted reality show, “Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?” For 10 seasons, I guided brides, grooms and their families through the complicated process of getting to the chapel on time - I’ve had the unique opportunity to come into your homes and show how the magic happens when it comes to saying “I DO!”

I’ll be honest – I love good food. Prepared with loving hands and a sense of taste, the sharing of a meal can be one of the best ways to show people you care. From the little girl who hosted Kool-Aid parties on her front porch to the woman who can whip up gourmet cornbread rounds and savory butters faster than you can blink an eye – my journey to this project has been a long time coming. My hope is that this book will simplify and demystify the “process” of cooking and having folks over – for whatever occasion you like! In each chapter you’ll find an event that you can easily host at home – from the glossy, pretty “after” photos as well as the “guide” through the “before”, complete with recipes, “to do” and prep lists as well as some fab décor/hostessing tips that will make your parties go “POW.” So - are you ready? I know I am. Let’s get started!!!!!