It's More Than A Gift

When was the last time a gift made you cry—in a good way?In this episode, I sit down with Josephine from Little Harbor Studio, a watercolor artist whose custom work transforms memories into lasting keepsakes. We talk about what makes a gift feel personal, how her art became a business during nap times, and why watercolor is one of the most emotionally powerful mediums for storytelling.From house portraits and monograms to gallery-wall collages and personalized book stamps, Josephine shares the heart, skill, and soul that go into her work—and why we should all be asking better questions before we click “add to cart.”If you’ve ever wanted to give a gift that has such deep meaning for the recipient, this episode is for you.👩‍🎨 Find Josephine at @littleharborstudio or visit lharborstudio.com

This week, I'm joined by the hilarious and heartfelt Emily Lawson — someone I like to call the queen of quality time. From date nights that won't drain your wallet to intentionally connecting with our kids in the chaos of real life, Emily brings her signature warmth, humor, and wisdom to remind us that meaningful moments don’t have to be expensive or elaborate.We talk about:The surprising formula for unforgettable at-home date nightsHow to stay connected in marriage during busy seasonsWhy it's worth investing time into the little things — like candy bowls and candlesGift-giving that actually meets people where they are.And full transparency? Between technical hiccups, dogs losing their minds, and a stye that showed up uninvited to my face — this episode is a real life kind of conversation. But it’s also one I loved, and I hope you will too.✨ Follow Emily and explore her heart for connection at:Instagram: @byemilylawsonTikTok: @byemilylawsonWebsite: byemilylawson.comLet this episode be your permission slip to ditch the pressure and show up for the people you love — simply, thoughtfully, and wholeheartedly.

In this captivating episode, host Audrey Mercier sits down with Kate Mishkin, founder of Spirit and Sound, to explore the powerful and intimate world of audio storytelling. Kate shares her journey from being a seasoned journalist and podcast producer for Sony Music to starting her own venture aimed at preserving authentic love stories through audio recordings.Together, they discuss the unique qualities that audio storytelling brings to significant life moments, particularly weddings. Kate explains how audio taps into subconscious memory, unlocking details and emotions often forgotten, making it a profound keepsake for couples and families. They also dive into how storytelling methods have evolved and the deep emotional connection that can be captured through voice alone.Kate reveals her thoughtful approach to guiding couples through their stories, emphasizing the importance of detailed, sensory-rich recollections. Audrey and Kate also discuss innovative ways audio storytelling could complement traditional wedding photography and videography, highlighting its timeless value as a personal and meaningful gift.Listen in as they envision how Spirit and Sound might expand, from documenting love stories to capturing life's milestones and legacy stories across generations.Discover more about Kate Mishkin and Spirit and Sound:Website: spiritandsnd.comInstagram: @spiritandsndDon't miss this heartfelt conversation on preserving life's most precious moments.

In this episode, Audrey talks with Becca, the down-to-earth and deeply thoughtful host behind Host In Your Home. What began as casual dinners turned into a quiet mission: to make hosting feel less intimidating and more human—for people who care deeply about building real connection.Together they explore:Becca’s story of learning to host from her mom using pantry staples and a repeatable formulaThe quiet generosity of inviting people into your home as-isWhy thoughtful hosting is less about the “wow” and more about the “welcome”Go-to ideas for affordable gatherings that still feel specialHow your presence as a host can be the most meaningful gift of allThey also talk about:Hostess gifts that actually feel intentional (and don’t take up space)How to thoughtfully follow up with guests who couldn’t attendThe emotional impact of being both a giver and a good receiver✨ If you’ve ever felt like your home wasn’t ready, your schedule too full, or your gatherings not “good enough,” this episode will encourage you to reframe hospitality as one of the most generous gifts you can offer—and receive.🛋️ Find Becca here: Instagram: @hostinyourhomeWebsite: hostinyourhome.comTikTok: @host.in.your.homePinterest: hostinyourhome🕯️ BONUS: Her hosting guides and Spotify playlists also make for a beautiful, practical experience-based gift for someone who’s longing to create more connection in their home.

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of It’s More Than a Gift, Audrey chats with Johanna and Denise, the dynamic duo behind Laurelbox—a company redefining how we support loved ones through life’s hardest moments. Learn how these visionary cousins turned a personal challenge into a thriving business that creates beautifully curated gifts for grief and remembrance. They share their unique approach to designing items that feel intentional, deeply personal, and anything but ordinary. From unforgettable customer stories to practical tips on showing up for grieving friends, Johanna and Denise reveal how small gestures can carry immeasurable meaning. Whether you’re searching for thoughtful ways to support someone or simply inspired by the idea of turning compassion into action, this conversation will leave you with ideas and insights you didn’t know you needed. Resources: Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurelbox Facebook: www.facebook.com/laurelboxgifts Website: www.laurelbox.com If you found value in this episode, share it with someone who could use a little extra light in their life. 🌿

In this deeply personal episode of It's More Than a Gift, Audrey connects with Kellie Abernethy, the heart and hands behind Rest of the Nest. Kellie opens up about the painful yet inspiring journey that led her to create keepsakes filled with meaning and love for those grieving a loss. She shares how her first miscarriage sparked a need to hold onto something real, something that could bring comfort when words couldn’t. What started as a small act of remembrance turned into a business that now touches countless lives. Together, Audrey and Kellie explore the healing power of empathy, the importance of honoring memories, and the unique comfort a handmade keepsake can offer during life’s hardest moments. Join us to hear Kellie’s journey of turning grief into a beautiful source of connection and support for others. Find Kellie and her keepsakes with Rest of the Nest: Etsy Shop Website Instagram

In this episode of It’s More Than a Gift, Audrey sits down with Liz from You Are Here, a brand built around the power of presence and support for those facing life’s toughest moments, especially during health challenges like cancer. Liz opens up about her personal journey through cancer and the inspiration behind her practical, heartfelt resources that make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Together, they discuss how a simple binder became a lifeline for Liz and grew into something that anyone could gift to show love and support—no flowers needed. Tune in for a raw, insightful conversation about the beauty of showing up, even when the path isn’t clear, and what it means to truly be “here” for someone. Perfect for anyone who wants to give thoughtfully and for those seeking ways to support a loved one through life’s challenges, this episode dives into what makes a gift more than just an item. Liz's resources: Website: www.youareherexo.com Instagram: @youareherexo Other resources Liz loves: Em and Friends:⁠ https://emandfriends.com/⁠ BrightBox:⁠ https://www.brightboxes.com/⁠

In this special debut episode of It's More Than a Gift, Audrey Mercier welcomes a very special guest—her mom, Mary. Together, they dive into the heartwarming traditions and stories that have shaped Audrey's love for thoughtful gift-giving. From nostalgic memories of Christmas catalogs and hand-picked trees, to the significance of truly meaningful, personal gifts, this episode is filled with inspiration on how small gestures can create lasting connections. Mary shares her experiences as a mother of five, giving us a glimpse of the family traditions and thoughtful acts that made every holiday season special. They also explore the art of choosing gifts that go beyond price tags—gifts that come from the heart. Whether you're looking for ways to make your gifts more intentional or simply enjoy reminiscing about the magic of holiday traditions, this conversation is sure to leave you smiling. Don’t miss out on Audrey’s tips for making gift-giving both personal and practical! Tune in and subscribe for more stories that make gift-giving an art form.