The Hitch List Podcast

The Hitch List Podcast | Interview with The Grand Sofia

In this episode of The Hitch List, we’re stepping inside The Grand Sofia, the Gulf Coast’s newest premier luxury venue where coastal beauty meets modern elegance. Located directly on the beach in Biloxi, Mississippi, this state-of-the-art space is designed to host everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale galas with effortless sophistication. With 10,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed event space, crystal chandeliers, coffered ceilings, & sweeping oceanfront views, The Grand Sofia offers a breathtaking backdrop for weddings, corporate events, & milestone celebrations. Every detail has been curated to create a seamless experience, from private preparation suites to a full commercial kitchen, built-in AV systems, & a spacious bar for cocktail hours & receptions. This episode explores what makes The Grand Sofia more than just a venue, but a complete event experience designed with flexibility, luxury, & ease in mind. We talk about: * How The Grand Sofia was designed for both intimate & large-scale events * What sets a true luxury venue experience apart on the Gulf Coast * The importance of thoughtful design, flow, & guest experience * How built-in amenities simplify planning for clients & vendors * Creating unforgettable moments in a beachfront setting Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate gala, or special celebration, this episode gives you an inside look at one of the coast’s most exciting new event destinations. Follow The Grand Sofia: Instagram | @thegrandsofia [https://www.instagram.com/thegrandsofia/] Facebook | The Grand Sofia [https://www.facebook.com/TheGrandSofia] Website | thegrandsofia.com [http://thegrandsofia.com] 🎧 Subscribe & don’t miss an episode

The Hitch List Podcast | Interview with Dolce Bakeshop

In this episode of The Hitch List, we’re stepping into the sweet world of Dolce Bakeshop with owner Brooke Rester, a Gulf Coast favorite known for turning life’s celebrations into something truly unforgettable. From custom wedding cakes to handcrafted desserts, Dolce blends classic treats with hand-crafted art, creating a menu that feels both nostalgic & elevated. Brooke shares her journey from baking at home with self-taught recipes to building a thriving bakery rooted in family, faith, & community. What started as a way to stay home with her daughter quickly grew into a full-time business, eventually leading to the opening of Dolce’s iconic beachside location in Long Beach, Mississippi. Now approaching ten years in business, Brooke reflects on growth, resilience, & the heart behind every cake, cupcake, & dessert that leaves her shop. From weddings to birthdays to everyday moments, Dolce Bakeshop continues to be a place where celebration & craftsmanship come together. We talk about: * How Dolce Bakeshop began as a home baking dream * Building a business while raising a family * What goes into creating custom wedding cakes & event desserts * The journey of growing a beloved Gulf Coast bakery Whether you’re planning a wedding, celebrating a milestone, or just love a good story behind great desserts, this episode is full of heart, hustle, & inspiration. Follow Dolce Bakeshop: Instagram | @dolcebakeshopms [https://www.instagram.com/dolcebakeshopms/] Facebook | Dolce Bakeshop [https://www.facebook.com/dolcebybrookerester] Website | dolcebakes.net [http://dolcebakes.net] 🎧 Subscribe & don’t miss an episode

The Hitch List Podcast | Interview with Katie Rose Studio

In this episode of The Hitch List, we’re diving into a truly unique wedding experience with Katie Brace Peterson, the artist behind Katie Rose Studio. Blending creativity, emotion & live entertainment, Katie shares how she turned her lifelong love for art into a one-of-a-kind service capturing weddings in real time through live painting. With a background in mathematics & statistics, Katie’s journey hasn’t been linear. From the corporate world to the classroom & ultimately back to her creative roots, she shares how rediscovering art, especially while planning her own wedding, led her to build a business rooted in passion & purpose. We talk about the magic of live wedding painting, from creating heirloom pieces guests can watch come to life to offering couples a lasting, tangible memory of their day. Katie also shares how live fashion illustrations add an interactive, elevated experience for guests, blending art, fashion & entertainment seamlessly into the celebration. We talk about: * How Katie found her way back to art after a career in STEM * What goes into live painting during a wedding day * The value of creating heirloom artwork in real time * How live art enhances the guest experience * Turning a creative passion into a meaningful business Whether you’re looking for a unique way to elevate your wedding or you simply love seeing creativity come to life, this episode offers a fresh perspective on artistry, storytelling & celebrating moments in a way that lasts forever. Follow Katie Rose Studio: Instagram | @ [https://www.instagram.com/katierose.studio/]katierose.studio [http://katierose.studio] https://www.instagram.com/katierose.studio/ Facebook | Katie Rose Studio [https://www.facebook.com/KtRoseStudio] Website | katierosestudio.com [http://katierosestudio.com] 🎧 Subscribe & don’t miss an episode

The Hitch List Podcast | MM Photography

In this episode of The Hitch List, we’re sitting down with Mary-Pate of MM Photography to talk about what really goes into capturing a wedding day, from the early planning stages to the final moments behind the camera. After leaving the traditional 9-5, Mary-Pate built a business that allows her to serve her clients well while still prioritizing her family, & she’s sharing what that balance actually looks like in real life. We dive into the behind-the-scenes of wedding photography, the long hours, the preparation, the pressure to capture once-in-a-lifetime moments, & why timelines, communication, & trust matter more than most couples realize. Mary-Pate also shares why being the right fit for your photographer is just as important as loving their work, & how a strong connection can completely change your experience on your wedding day. We talk about: * What a wedding day really looks like for a photographer * The time, energy, & preparation that go into doing it well * Why connection & trust between photographer & client matter * Creating a relaxed, enjoyable experience in high-pressure moments * Balancing business, growth, & family life Whether you’re planning your wedding or stepping into the industry yourself, this episode gives you a real, honest look at what it takes to show up & deliver when it matters most. Follow MM Photography: Instagram | @mmphotography22_ms [https://www.instagram.com/mmphotography22_ms/]Facebook | MM Photography [https://www.facebook.com/p/MM-Photography-100081973045717/] TikTok | @marypate2019 [https://www.tiktok.com/@marypate2019?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc] Website | magnoliamainphotography96.mypixieset.com [http://magnoliamainphotography96.mypixieset.com] 🎧 Subscribe & don’t miss an episode

The Hitch List Podcast | Interview with The French Potager

In this episode of The Hitch List, we’re stepping into a world where artistry, storytelling, & florals collide with heart, heritage, & creativity at The French Potager. Founded by artist Martha Whitney Butler, this beloved Bay St. Louis shop is more than a flower shop, it’s an ever-evolving creative space rooted in beauty, intention, & inspiration. Martha shares her journey from the corporate world to chasing a dream in a small coastal town that quickly became home. What started as “the tiniest, cutest little building on Main St.” has grown into a destination known for its signature floral designs that feel anything but ordinary. The French Potager approaches floral design as an art form, creating one-of-a-kind arrangements using seasonal blooms, local flowers, & unique vessels that elevate every piece. From daily deliveries to full-scale weddings & events, their work is rooted in emotion, storytelling, & creating moments that feel both personal & unforgettable. We talk about: * How Martha built a creative business rooted in passion & intuition * The inspiration behind The French Potager & its ever-evolving concept * Why bespoke floral design creates a more meaningful client experience * What it takes to deliver high-touch, white-glove service for weddings & events * How environment, artistry, & intention come together to create joy-filled spaces Whether you’re a bride dreaming of elevated, story-driven florals or simply someone who appreciates creativity in its most authentic form, this episode offers a fresh perspective on building a business, & a life, around what you love. Follow The French Potager: Instagram | @thefrenchpotager [https://www.instagram.com/thefrenchpotager/] Facebook | The French Potager [https://www.facebook.com/TheFrenchPotager] Website | thefrenchpotager.com [http://thefrenchpotager.com] Hit subscribe & follow along on all major platforms so you don’t miss an episode 🎧