Bébés, Beauty & Bees - by Amanda Hampton Bravender (Hardcover)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

Step into the vibrant world of New Orleans with Bébés, Beauty & Bees, a captivating blend of family recipes, beauty secrets, and heartfelt stories from author Amanda Hampton Bravender's colorful life.

In this enchanting cookbook, Amanda invites you on a journey through her experiences, from her upbringing in Harvey, Louisiana, to her bustling career as a local hairstylist and makeup artist. With each turn of the page, she shares cherished family recipes passed down through generations, infusing the flavors of New Orleans into every dish.

More than just a collection of recipes, Bébés, Beauty & Bees is a celebration of Amanda's journey toward self-discovery, from her humble beginnings to her endeavors as a homesteader, beekeeper, and proud horse owner. Through her anecdotes and reflections, she imparts lessons of resilience, sustainability, and the importance of cherishing one's roots.

Join Amanda as she navigates the joys and challenges of raising five children--four boys and a daughter--while finding inspiration in the strong women who have shaped her life. With warmth and nostalgia, she invites readers to embrace the beauty of times past and savor the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals, homemade beauty remedies, and the sweet buzz of life on the farm.

Discover this testament to the enduring spirit of New Orleans and the remarkable journey of one woman determined to create a life filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

About the Author

Amanda Hampton Bravender is not your ordinary hair and makeup artist; she is a culinary aficionado, lifestyle influencer, and avid storyteller. With over 16 years of experience in the beauty industry, Amanda has honed her skills in various facets, from corporate sales and product development to social media management and freelance work. Her journey has taken her across the country, working on everything from musical theater productions and ballets to weddings and events.

When she is not wielding her makeup brushes and styling hair, Amanda can be found pursuing her passion for cooking and beekeeping. As a dedicated homesteader, she and her husband are building their dream apiary, rescuing and relocating bees to their farm. In her spare time, Amanda volunteers with 4-H, teaching children the joys of growing food, beekeeping, and horsemanship. She also shares her expertise through makeup workshops, raising funds for local theater companies and empowering others to feel beautiful inside and out.

Amanda's commitment to her craft is matched only by her devotion to her family. As a wife to Joshua and mother to James, Jonah, Joshua, Jaxon, and Fay Monroe, Amanda finds joy in spending quality time with loved ones.