Come On Over for Coffee

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

We Go Together

Community is not a luxury or privilege, I believe it is necessary. I know I'm not meant to journey this life alone but alongside others that love, support and encourage me and that I right back to them. This became more challenging for me when I became a mother. Prior I had pools of people from school, my career and nonprofits. 

When Vivian Louise came into my arms I was lost! (and in the trenches!) I was older, bound by schedules and in the daily maze of navigating her needs. I had needs too. Needs to fellowship, laugh and share with likeminded adult ladies. I remember saying one day there needs to be an app for friends lol. 

I would see other Mammas strolling, playing and going out together wondering how they found each other and how do I get invited.

When Vivian started preschool I joined a Tuesday morning bible study, signed up for group workout classes and learned about a group called MOPS - Mothers of Preschoolers. I joined and found community! Flash forward and this past year I LED this group alongside a gal who has become my dearest friend.

I look back in amazement at how my community came to be.

While I've often been referred to as a 'perfume lady' because I'll approach anyone #extrovert this is not easy nor does it come natural for most. In a world that's more virtual than ever I see the need for face-to-face.

Here are some encouraging ways to grow your community ....

SHOW UP

When invited, say yes! When you see a school event, neighborhood gathering, gym class, bible study, play date, etc .... GO!!! say yes! That probably means embracing some discomfort but you'll thank yourself later.

EXPECT GREAT THINGS 

Assume others want to make friends too rather than the negative thoughts like 'they already have friends' or 'I don't fit in'. I bet they're thinking the same thing. 

INITIATE HOSPITALITY 

Open the doors of your home to others. The season is warm so you can host outside. Squash the insecurities of having a magazine worth home (no one has one). Treat your neighbors with a sweet treat, organize a park playdate or ladies happy hour.  If you ask - they will come! Think about how you feel when you're invited to something :)

Note: not everyone is meant to be your bestie and that's ok! Be unoffendable to differences and keep seeking those that align with you.

I wore this pink dress to the last MOPS meeting that we 

hosted as a tea. I cried sharing my final words up front while also 

feeling more loved than ever by the treasures in the room.

I encourage you to pray and put yourself out there to find community!

Dress Beautifully in Community

XOXO Sarah Louise