The latter part of the year can seem like an endless string of celebrations that start with Labor Day and don’t end until we ring in the New Year. Constant invitations to celebrate these occasions can become overwhelming. What to wear? What to bring? Who is your plus one? Can kids come? Will it even be fun? How do you say no? So many people and the same conversations over again can become daunting, especially if you would like to do things a little more on the down-low. However, you realize it is fun to see your friends, and you ultimately wish for a little more time with them, whether it’s as a smaller group or one-on-one. There are many ways to catch up with friends without infusing all the fuss.
Keeping it Simple
There is something to be said for starting your day with a strong espresso or nonfat vanilla latte from your favorite coffee bar. A morning “coffee klatch” is perfect for catching up. Translated from the German word Kaffeeklatsch, it literally means to drink coffee and gossip. So maybe you don’t want to gossip, but some fun chit-chat or a heart-to-heart with your friends always makes for a fun and friendly way to start your day. There is no dress code and no requirement to do anything but lend an ear to a friend.
Happy Hour gatherings are a simple way to end the day. Given how early Happy Hours begin and end, you will want to leave the office early to take advantage of drink specials. Living in West LA, opportunities are limitless to enjoy some extra time with friends. The Best of West LA/Culver City lists the top choices for Happy Hour. Happy Hours aren’t endless, so you won’t feel forced to spend lots of extra time you may not have; just the perfect amount to connect, update, and feel refreshed. And the Uber and Lyft drivers will appreciate the business as well.
Plan to gather for dinner or lunch at a local restaurant while supporting the community. It has been a rough couple of years for many businesses, and they welcome the opportunity to show you just how delicious they still are. Restaurants are an excellent way to meet with a few friends in an intimate environment. Keep it interesting by picking different kinds of cuisines to try.
Meet for a walk or hike, depending on which you prefer. Bring your dog while you catch up and kill two birds with one stone. Walks are lovely because they happen in big open spaces, with the likelihood that anyone might overhear a private part of your conversation considerably lessened. Of course, there is also the added health benefit of a walk that the more sedentary coffee, food, and bar scene do not offer.
Games have always been a fun way to bring a small group of friends together. While one of you needs to host, everyone can bring an appetizer to share, and you can show off your charcuterie skills. Divide up drink duties as well. Have someone bring the wine, someone else beer or seltzers, and don’t forget that friend that loves to get the margarita ice pops. Sharing in the process puts less stress on the host, allows everyone to contribute to the event, and ultimately results in you and your friends having a great time together without all that added party stress.
Enjoy the Moment
We tend to get caught up in the chaos of the season. We forget to sit back and truly appreciate the friendships around us. It is nice to find the time when there are opportunities to nourish those special friendships that sometimes fall by the wayside in the plethora of events happening during the holidays. While it may take a little effort on your side, it is well worth the goodwill to let your friends know they are valued and cherished beyond the mandatory celebrations where fake smiles and tired conversation can make the season more dreaded than valued.
