Lift & Shift Foundation

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Reduce Your Stress Surrounded by Family

Planning for Family Gatherings

At Lift and Shift Foundation, we believe in the power of being surrounded by a caring support network as a stress relief activity. Having a strong support system can help you navigate difficult times and provide a sense of comfort and security. If you're looking for ways to build a support network, check out our tips on the stress-relieving power of community.

Family crowded around for the holidays

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The Power of Support

Planning events and parties for friends and family can be a satisfying and stress-relieving activity. The process of organizing and executing a successful event can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost your mood. Additionally, spending time with loved ones and creating happy memories can be a great way to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

Event Planning Basics

If you don't throw parties often, don't worry! Getting started is easy. Here are some simple steps to keep you on track:

  • Choose the type of event: Decide on the type of event you want to plan, such as a birthday party, a family reunion, or a charity fundraiser.
  • Set a budget: Determine how much money you can spend on the event and allocate funds accordingly.
  • Create a guest list: Decide who you want to invite to the event and make sure to get their contact information.
  • Choose a date and time: Pick a date and time that works for the majority of your guests and fits within your schedule.
  • Select a venue: Choose a location that is appropriate for the type of event you are planning and fits within your budget.
  • Plan the menu: Decide what food and drinks you want to serve at the event and make sure to accommodate any dietary restrictions.
  • Decorate the space: Create a welcoming and festive atmosphere by decorating the venue with appropriate decorations.
  • Enjoy the event: Relax and enjoy the event you have planned!

Help With Smaller Gatherings

Sometimes you don't want a big event, but you still want to spend time with friends and family. Here are some ideas for smaller gatherings:

  • Host a game night with board games, card games, or video games.
  • Have a movie night with popcorn and snacks.
  • Organize a potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish to share.
  • Plan a picnic in a nearby park or outdoor space.
  • Take a hike or nature walk together.
  • Have a craft night with supplies for painting, knitting, or jewelry making.

Party Planning For Pay

Maybe you're a natural party planner and want to take your skills to the next level. If you're interested in planning events for pay, here are some tips to get you started:

  • Gain experience: Start by planning events for friends and family to gain experience and build your portfolio.
  • Network: Attend industry events and connect with other professionals to build your network.
  • Develop a niche: Specialize in a particular type of event, such as weddings or corporate events, to stand out in the market.
  • Create a business plan: Develop a business plan that outlines your services, target market, and financial projections.
  • Build a team: As your business grows, build a team of professionals to help with event planning, marketing, and operations.
  • Stay organized: Use project management tools and software to stay organized and manage multiple events at once.
  • Market your services: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your services and attract new clients.

Support the Lift & Shift Foundation

We believe supporting stress-reducing hobbies is an important part of our mission. If you found our tips helpful, please consider sharing them with your friends, family, and community. You never know who might benefit. And if you'd like to stay up-to-date on our latest stress-reducing activities, join our email newsletter today.

References:
  1. Harandi, Tayebeh Fasihi et al. “The correlation of social support with mental health: A meta-analysis.” Electronic physician vol. 9,9 5212-5222. 25 Sep. 2017, doi:10.19082/5212
  2. Maulik, Pallab K et al. “The effect of social networks and social support on mental health services use, following a life event, among the Baltimore Epidemiologic Catchment Area cohort.” The journal of behavioral health services & research vol. 38,1 (2011): 29-50. doi:10.1007/s11414-009-9205-z
  3. Kawachi, I, and L F Berkman. “Social ties and mental health.” Journal of urban health : bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine vol. 78,3 (2001): 458-67. doi:10.1093/jurban/78.3.458