Hosts are people who like to have FUN and share the fun with others.
Dear friend:
Can I call you that? I want share my heart with you, but I get nervous, so I’d like to talk to you like you are my friend. No judgment, no nitpickyness, just two friends having a heart to heart while drinking coffee and eating chocolate cake. Please never take me too seriously. I’m a little sarcastic sometimes, but my heart is in the right place. :)
It’s so nice to meet you! I am a Small Groups host, Author and Designer-of-all-the-things. I have been planning small groups, large groups and intimate gatherings for over 25 years. I have put together and run huge craft fairs, fundraisers, and other large events. I have decorated for large events and done single stunning statement floral pieces. With my degree and experience in interior design, I am able to pull spaces together while focusing on the tiny details.
I’ve done all the things, but can I be honest, friend to friend? I most enjoy having a few people over to my home or out to lunch for some quiet conversation, laughter and maybe tears.
We are made to live life together. I am not talking about reporting to each other our highlight real on social media. I mean true friendships that have been cultivated through time, hard situations and real face to face relationship. But how do we find these true friendships?
First, we need to put ourselves out there, even when it feels scary. I am a major introvert and homebody, who hates shopping. Just the thought of going to a small party or to Target to walk around wears me out. My “people” know this and literally FORCE me out of the house to get some face time, a change of scenery and some air! So believe me, I know it is HARD to meet and talk to people. I believe that is why I excel in the Small Group setting in my own home. I am free to be myself, in my own comfort zone.
Times being what they are (way too serious) I recognize the need for some FUN in every life. Can I be your “FUN Friend”? With that important self-appointed title in mind, I am here to share my funny stories, and my ideas on how you can start hosting your own small group. I can tell you about my own successful (and NOT so successful!) workshops. We have had some doozies for sure. I share past projects with directions and some printables for you to download and make with your group. I also have a line of apparel and home decor, based on past projects and my groups conversations.
Are you getting excited yet about hosting your own small group or craft night? Maybe not, but keep reading anyway! Sign up below for your free Small Groups Planner, and you can fill it out as you have inspiration and read the First Steps series. Until you are ready to text or email those invites, please enjoy the valuable information and laugh at the stories and mishaps of my own craft nights. I may even throw in some stories about “Brookes” Craft Night adventures in my Craft Night Mysteries.
I am currently working on formatting all my printable project designs from past years for you to purchase and use during your own craft nights or as individual designs to make gifts. While our merchandise and the project kits lend a hand in bringing your group together, they can also make amazing gifts for yourself or your friends.
So, get a refill on that coffee, get a cookie for me, and get reading! I hope you enjoy yourself and I inspire you to “Live Life Together”!
-Tanya Fee
Designer, Small Groups Coordinator, GLADS Host
Acquaintances gather around a messy table, watching how something is made. Projects are a wonderful opportunity to bring people together. These people will leave as friends.