Back when we were in the US Navy, the wives opened the doors of their homes weekly to host 'Coffees'. Over hot cups and light breakfast we shared the hard things and the highlights of our lives. We got to know each other on a personal level, something that I believe is lacking in our world. The time we spent gathered together was such gift.
Note: Social Media has us 'seeing' others but that is NOT real community. It is a virtual form that does has its place but it's incapable of replacing face to face time.
Now that Vivian is in kindergarten I am craving connection with others in my season and decided rather than be discouraged to spearhead fellowship by bringing those military 'Coffees' back into my home.
I decided to invite fellow kindergarten mothers from Vivian's school into our home. I want to be honest, I was apprehensive to put myself out there not knowing any of them but I knew my intent to foster friendship was greater than any fears.
I know it's silly but I had such a worry that no one would come ... I was immediately met with excited responses.
I ENCOURAGE YOU TO OPEN YOUR HOME TO FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS ...
ANYONE IN YOUR CIRCLES!!!
Here are my tips for hosting your own coffee ...
INVITE THEM
Don't just talk about it, find a date/time, create your invite. I will print and mail invites whenever possible! But for digital convenience Canva is my favorite via email, evite, text etc. Just SEND IT!
BRIGHT & EARLY
The timing of hosting a coffee is the best part. Early morning allows for guests to arrive casually and it doesn't infringe on their responsibilities for the day.
Tip: I put a start and end time and politely wrap up timely thanking guests for attending.
COFFEE
There's a slowness that comes when sipping a hot cup together leaving room for listening and sharing. With a small group your personal coffee maker is just right. When it comes to larger groups, I don't know about you but my coffee pot can not fuel a crowd. To keep things plentiful consider catering coffee - most places you can order in advance and simply grab and go. The single serve coffee makers would also be easy for individuals to make their own.
DELIGHTS
I served far too much but also wanted to make sure I had ample not knowing how many were attending.
I believe a bowl of fruit and 1-2 smalls offerings is plenty.
Do not overlook purchasing premade. This eliminates stress & mess!
Disposable & porcelain dishes are equally great ... I like a blend of both.
Note: I donated the leftovers to the teachers' break room, neighbors and our bus driver.
HOME
There is far too much unnecessary pressure on the aesthetics of our homes. These are the sacred spaces where we raise our families - not a museum or magazine photo shoot.
Embrace the imperfections and items that represent the people that live there. (we even have a piece of our ceiling missing in the breakfast room from a water leak - we live a normal life in a normal house!)
I adjusted our furniture placement slightly to give greater walking room.
With that the bathroom, floors and surfaces should be clean in the main areas.
Tip: I intentionally schedule cleaning for the day before.
DETAILS TO CONSIDER
Setting aside a space for guests to put their handbags so they're hands free.
Frame tv's are so pretty - but simply uploading an image (possibly the invite graphic) on your tv adds a great backdrop.
If small children will be accompanying - a basket of toys can save the mothers & children.
Have a small waste basket near the food table - prevents guests from asking.
Label beverages & food with a card
Name tags if guests are unknown
Let guests know where the bathroom is
HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTESS
As for your outfit, I believe it's important to be polished but also to be understated so that others feel comfortable. I wore straight jeans, a sleeveless white blouse and ballet flats.
Use what you have for serving & decor, showing your guests who you are - that's the meaningful presentation.
Be sure to include everyone, giving each guest space to share.
A warm welcome and goodbye fills guests with feelings of belonging and friendship.
Hosting doesn't have to be intimidating. Opening your home to others is a great blessing not only to the recipients but it's rewarding to you too! Whether it's a gathering of 2 or many share connection & love with one another.
Dress Beautifully Hosting a Coffee
XOXO Sarah Louise
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