Soulful Stories. Sweet Delights.
At Stories and Sweets, we believe stories deserve space — and celebration.
What started as a heartfelt book launch and a homegrown cookie table has grown into a community-rooted, storytelling-centered experience for authors, creatives, and visionaries ready to bring their work to life. Whether it's a debut book, a passion project, or a story that’s been waiting years to be told, we’re here to help you launch it with intention — and joy.
We combine thoughtful event planning with a love for literature, culture, and food to create events that feel just like you: authentic, vibrant, and full of heart.
Stories and Sweets
Our Team
Lyrique Richards
Zharia Gallimore
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Oversees the full culinary experience, including vendor curation and Zar’s Cookie Jar
Manages day-of-event execution, vendor coordination, and venue logistics
Anchors the hospitality experience and ensures a welcoming atmosphere
Supports budgeting, inventory, and on-site setup and flow
Brings the sweet side of every story to life through food and creative touch points
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Because food is its own kind of storytelling. Whether it’s your grandmother’s recipe, a handcrafted cookie, or a slice of celebration cake, sweets bring people together — and that’s what we’re all about.
Baker. Entrepreneur. Sweet Creator.
Zharia is the founder of Zar’s Cookie Jar — the delicious, creative spark behind the “sweets” in Stories and Sweets. Her work reminds us that food is a story in itself — one that connects, comforts, and celebrates all at once.
CEO & Creative Director-
Leads the overall vision, strategy, and brand direction
Oversees operations, logistics, and business structure design
Develops event programming, author partnerships, and storytelling themes
Directs creative content, marketing, and community engagement
Represents the brand publicly through speaking, media features, and collaborations
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Because stories shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. Every author or creative we work with has something to say — and we create the space for them to say it, out loud, in their own way.
Author. Storyteller. Community Builder.
Lyrique is the author of #1 bestseller Dear Black Girl, Let Me Hold Your Pain and a speaker devoted to helping others claim their power and share their voice. She brings her eye for intentional storytelling and her deep community roots to every event we craft.
COO & Culinary Director