it's difficult to pick a favorite part of the house, but this spot is definitely high on the list.

when my roommates and i began hosting people, our top priority was always the comfort of our guests, and their ability to feel welcome in our home. but we also didn't want to leave anyone out, so we always invite everyone to our parties. we send out a graphic that people can screenshot and send to their friends, and they can send it to their friends. our invites always include the words "bring a friend" and we mean it.

but what does this mean for the introverts among us? being one myself, i deeply understand the plight. you go to an event, you barely know anyone, and you don't want to cling to your one friend. so, not wanting to stand around awkwardly or be a burden, you leave. we didn't want anyone to feel this way. so we found the perfect strategy.

at every event we host, we have a craft table. our coffee table is full of some sort of craft project. we've had everything from friendship bracelets to coloring sheets to paper snowflakes. and we've found it to be a haven for the introvert, the shy, or the anxious. people can sit and do a craft, and the pressure of doing something or talking to someone is removed. you can simply be.

and something sweet usually happens. all of the people start out quietly making their project, not talking to anyone. and then conversation sparks  —  someone asks for the purple marker, or compliments another on their paper snowflake. all of a sudden, those people feel safe and are having fun.

and, usually, they're the last ones to leave.