“The science of friendship gives you permission to hang out with your friends and call it healthy. You’re not being indulgent.” - Lydia Denworth, science journalist and author of Friendship: The Evolution, Biology and Extraordinary Power of Life’s Fundamental Bond.
As another cautious year ended, December may have felt like a being trapped in a snow globe. A little shaken and swirled. But at least we were back to parties, events and gatherings.
In the new year, we recommend embracing the event. Make time for your people. Bring different groups of friends together. Are you not a “birthday person"? Plan your own “un-birthday,” with a twist.
Book a private dance party for your friends. Jocelyn Brunotte, along with co-owner, Rachel West, can put together private group fitness classes at mind/body HAUS. We love Dance Cardio the most. No previous experience required, promise. The class takes easy to learn dance combinations and mixes with the best music. You will float for days from the energy. mindbodyhaus.com
Embroidery artists and clothing designers by trade, Ashley Padmore and Whitney Washington are the duo behind We Tight Knit. These local darlings moved to Memphis from Brooklyn in 2020. Possibilities are endless with their custom chainstitch embroidery designs. They have collaborated with local and national brands already. But the best part is – so can you! Secure We Tight Knit for a private party at your house. Your guests can bring clothes, linens, accessories for patches or embroidery. It’s like hosting a modern day sewing circle for your friends. Wetightknit.com
Samya Foster of Samya’s Kitchen started her hummus business in 2018. Almost immediately, her clients begged for hummus subscriptions. And now she is as a favorite of stockists like High Point Grocery and Cordelia’s Market. Now, you can have Samya at home. She has started catering for small gatherings. If planning a party feels too daunting, just book Samya to cook in your kitchen and invite a small group. Her menu ranges from falafel to halva. Pair the sweet treat, halva, with ice cream and now you have a party. samyashummus.com
Pickleball feels like a retro sport. Plan a couple’s tournament and challenge your guests to wear costumes representing various decades. After you book a DJ (we love DJ AD (@djad901) for any occasion), make sure you order a trophy for the winners. Hit up String ‘n Swing for any new gear. stringnswing.com
You might be feeling more indoorsy this winter, but it will be worth it when you visit Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. Bring your friends for a day party of hiking. It’s a short drive from town with countless trails. You’ll feel transported atop the Chickasaw Bluffs. And with a group of friends, you’ll feel grounded. First, head to Outdoors, Inc for some new footwear. Tnstateparks.com. outdoorsinc.com
Cristina McCarter of Feast and Graze truly makes your party snacks worry free. Their offerings are beautiful, and she delivers! For your day of hiking, order personalized charcuterie boxes. If you are celebrating a friend’s birthday with a come and go lunch hour, have her turn your kitchen island (and we mean the entire thing) into a giant grazing board. feastandgraze.com