Gather Like You Mean It for the Holiday Season

let’s make this holiday season one to remember, for all the good reasons 😁

As the holiday season approaches, many of us feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. I get it—juggling family traditions, planning gatherings, and keeping everything running smoothly can sometimes feel like an Olympic sport. But what if we shifted our focus? What if we viewed these moments as opportunities to connect rather than sources of stress?

Having recently attended two weddings, I was reminded of how deeply personal gatherings can be. Each wedding celebrated a unique love story, and every detail contributed to that narrative. It got me thinking about how we can approach our own holiday gatherings with that same level of intention.

During my stay at an incredible hotel in Italy, I felt that warmth and connection in the air. The staff went above and beyond to make everyone feel at home. It’s a beautiful reminder that the smallest details can make a huge difference—much like the love and care we pour into our own celebrations. The picture below captures a moment with my daughter, Harlow, and the owner, who embraced her—and all of us—in a way we never expected but will always remember.

Hotel Villa Florida on Lake Garda

How we can make this holiday season one to remember, for all the good reasons…..

• Design with Intention: Just like those weddings, think about what the purpose of the gathering is. Who or what is being celebrated? How do you want yourself and your guests to feel?

• Focus on Connection: Instead of trying to do everything perfectly, prioritize the connections you want to cultivate. The laughter, the stories, and the shared moments are what truly matter.

• Embrace the Chaos: Let’s be real—things may will not go according to plan. Instead of getting caught up in frustration and anxiety, find the humor in the holiday chaos. The moments can be some of the best stories to tell.

• Celebrate Your Way: Whether it’s a favorite dish, a family game, or a quirky holiday ritual, embrace what makes your gatherings special. These unique touches will resonate with your guests and create lasting memories. This isn’t about doing things because you feel you should, or because you saw it on the gram, or because someone else’s family does it. Lean into who your group is and celebrate those beautiful quirks that make your gatherings uniquely yours.

• Don’t be a C😁ntrol Freak: Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. Ask for help, delegate tasks, and involve your guests in the planning process and the day of. It not only lightens your load but also deepens connections.

As we gear up for the holiday season, let’s commit to designing gatherings that reflect the love and warmth we want to share. But it’s not just about that—it’s also about creating connections, celebrating our unique traditions, and embracing the little moments that make us smile. The art of gathering highlights all of this, and I’m excited to explore it with all of you!

Let’s navigate this holiday season together—embracing the chaos, celebrating our connections, and making the most of every moment. I hope to see you at the next Soul Collective session, where we’ll dive even deeper into these themes!

Brindiamo alla salute e alla calma! (let’s toast to health and calm!! )
Nicolette

P.S. LTK ~let it be easy travel products