Be Ready When the Luck Happens, A Memoir By Ina Garten

In her long-awaited memoir, Be My Guest, Ina Garten—beloved as the Barefoot Contessa—invites readers into her world, sharing the personal and professional journey that made her a culinary icon. Known for her effortless approach to cooking and entertaining, Ina reveals that her successes have come through hard work, bold decisions, and an unwavering commitment to detail. For the first time, she offers an intimate look at her life, weaving together entertaining stories, personal challenges, and surprising career twists.

From her difficult childhood to meeting her husband Jeffrey, the love of her life, and marrying him while still in college, Ina’s story is as heartwarming as it is inspiring. She reflects on leaving a mundane job in Washington, D.C., for a leap of faith—purchasing a specialty food store in the Hamptons, which she transformed into the beloved Barefoot Contessa shop. As she transitioned from shop owner to bestselling author and star of her own Food Network show, Ina’s rise was defined by passion, persistence, and the courage to take big risks.

Throughout the memoir, Ina shares the valuable lessons she’s learned: follow what you love, and you’ll excel; take risks; and be ready when opportunity knocks. Written in Ina’s signature voice—warm, witty, and full of heart—this memoir offers a rare and inspiring glimpse behind the scenes of her life and career, inviting fans and food lovers alike to feel as though they’re seated at her table, sharing in her wisdom and experiences. 📚❤️