Finding Your Parenting Village in Bishop’s Stortford - Katie Linard
Show notes
Katie Linard - Mama’s Little Black Book and Mamas Who Brunch
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Katie Linard joins James to talk about finding your parenting village in Bishop’s Stortford, and why having other parents to talk to can make such a difference.
A mum of two, Katie explains how her own experiences led her to create Mamas Who Brunch and Mama’s Little Black Book. From monthly brunches to a directory of local professionals, her work helps families meet each other and find people who can support them with the challenges of parenting.
We talk about raising children during COVID, the pressure to follow conflicting advice, and why what works for one family might not work for another. Katie explains how she checks the experience and qualifications of the professionals in her community, and why she wants parents to feel comfortable turning up as they are.
There is also an honest conversation about difficult days, the guilt parents can feel when they are struggling, and the value of a space where nobody needs to pretend everything is going well.
Katie shares plans for the Mama’s Little Black Book Family Festival at Jackson Square on Sunday 4 October 2026, from 10am to 3pm. The event brings local families and professionals together, with Tappy Toes, a first aid demonstration, a parent panel, The Little Arts Workshop and mini family photoshoots from Jodie Wilson Photography. Entry is free; pottery purchases and additional photographs are paid extras.
Family Festival information and booking:
https://www.mamaslittleblackbook.co.uk/events1/family-festival
Find Katie here:
https://www.mamaslittleblackbook.co.uk/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/mamaslittleblackbook/
Stortford Spotlight
Katie’s Jackson Square billboard:
“Parenting isn't meant to be done alone. So come along and meet your local parenting community and experts who can support you on that journey.”
Her local spot: H@ME & EAT, where Katie holds brunches. She loves the easy parking and the unexpected mix of food, shopping and hot tubs.
https://www.homeandeat.com/
Her local shoutout: Hayley Harris at Jackson Square, for supporting the family festival and the families it aims to bring together.
https://www.jacksonsquareshopping.co.uk/
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