Two simple words, “You’re invited”, have the power to make us feel chosen, honored, connected, and delighted.
This is the secret of hospitality and the goal of every single event I design. And I treasure the opportunity to help you extend this same kind of blessing to your friends and family.
By making it easy for you to host meaningful events where you can gather together and make memories around the table, I hope to help you bring more love and joy into your circle of relationships.
Chosen
When you invite someone to your event you are literally telling them that they are wanted and who doesn’t love to feel included and special? Right from the start you are signaling to each person that they matter. You can send out handmade invitations, create something online, buy a unique set of cards that fits your theme or simply craft a thoughtful email. The most important part is just letting people know “You’re invited!”
Honored
At your event, there are many ways you can make your guests feel honored. Start simply by welcoming them each by name, which can be trickier than it sounds when people are arriving and you get caught up in conversations with them. Adding personalized details such as place cards at the table, along with a small gift such as a tiny bouquet or other memento can really make people feel special. But even a simple, heartfelt or funny toast can be just the thing to make your guests glow with happiness.
Connected
Creating and renewing connections is an invaluable component of a truly successful event. It is really the whole reason I always say “Parties aren’t just fun, they’re super important!” Help your guests build connections by introducing them to each other, including those who may be more introverted to join in with a smaller group, organizing an ice breaker to get people interacting, or asking creative conversation starter questions to encourage everyone to share stories and ideas. I’ve seen people grow closer and make new friends based on discovering things they have in common that they might never have known about if they hadn’t been asked to go around the table and share.
Delighted
Your table design is very important but only because it sets the stage for your celebration and will create the mood you want from the moment your guests arrive. There is no need to buy trendy, expensive table linens or décor. You simply need to decide how you want people to feel when they gather around your table. Relaxed? Energized? Comforted? Inspired? Not sure about what style you want? Let’s play a little game of “This or That?”
Elegant or Casual?
Rustic or Contemporary?
Sophisticated or Playful?
Bold or Neutral?
Floral and sweet or Sleek and modern?
Guess what? You can even combine these if that’s what you want! Casual elegance is my personal favorite because it makes everyone feel special but it’s not stuffy or pretentious.
Just imagine what you want your table to look and feel like and DO THAT!
When you host an event that is 100% YOU I guarantee your guests will be filled with delight.
Your party can be beautiful and romantic, funny and energetic, or whimsical and creative. Anything from a fun movie night or elegant tea party, to a summer backyard wedding or sparkling holiday party, whatever you do to celebrate will bring joy and delight to the hearts of your guests.
While they eat, drink, laugh and talk, be sure to take a moment to look around and cherish their smiles and the light shining in their eyes and know that you gave them this beautiful gift just by saying “You’re invited!”
It’s these moments, the true spirit of an event, that stay with people long after it’s over. Just a few little extra touches can provide refreshing wonder that takes us out of our daily life with all of its stresses and brings comfort to recalibrate our tired nervous systems.
And that is truly something to celebrate!
