There’s something deeply comforting about watching a woman in her element. Whether it’s Martha Stewart arranging a tablescape with military precision, Ina Garten effortlessly whipping up roast chicken for Jeffrey (with the perfect cocktail accompaniment), or Meghan Markle showcasing her thoughtful approach to hosting on With Love, Meghan, I find it inspiring rather than intimidating. These women have mastered the art of homemaking and entertaining, and instead of resenting them for their perfectionism, I think we should be admiring the care and attention they pour into it.

Meghan’s show reminds me of the original Martha Stewart series — refined, beautiful, and unapologetically curated. There’s an undeniable charm in how she leans into hobbies like beekeeping and floral arranging, even though you can tell it makes her a little nervous. That desire to get it just right — to create something meaningful — is often written off as controlling or calculated. But to me, it’s the mark of someone who genuinely cares about the experience she’s creating for others.

Undeniably, these lifestyles are aspirational. Most of us don’t have access to Montecito gardens or a team of stylists — and that’s okay. They’re not meant to be followed to the letter. The joy comes from drawing inspiration, finding small ways to elevate our own lives without trying to match the price tag. Meghan’s honey from her own hives might be out of reach, but trying a new recipe or setting a beautiful table for Sunday supper? That’s doable. And that’s the beauty of these shows — they remind us that we can take pleasure in the art of homemaking, however it looks in our own homes.

Watching Meghan confidently host and lean into her strengths, despite the criticism, feels like a quiet act of defiance — and I’m here for it! Just like Martha and Ina before her, she’s proving that there’s nothing wrong with taking pride in creating a beautiful, welcoming life.