Why Events Are Important

I once heard a morning radio show complaining about too many parties surrounding a wedding – engagement party, bridal shower, and the wedding.  They were saying it’s too many gifts, too much fuss, and too much time.  I understand that they were trying to get callers engaged and to entertain the listeners.  And I can’t completely disagree with their point.  However, I think it is easy to miss the bigger picture.

My point is that these events bring people together to celebrate an occasion.  In troubled times, isn’t it nice to gather with family and friends to celebrate something happy?  In our busy lives, isn’t it nice to take time out to spend time visiting with others, meeting new people, and making memories?  In our digital age, isn’t it refreshing to be live and in-person with other live and in-person people?

A dear friend of mine was planning an event for her husband.  She was having trouble getting people (both friends and family) to attend.  If they were responding to her invitation at all, many were saying the destination is too far, the weather is too iffy, the travel is too expensive, their family is too busy...  She was disappointed that they wouldn’t even try to show their love and appreciation for someone who is so important not just to her, but to them as well, by just showing up.  I understand her frustration.  There is no better way to show that you care than by taking the time and making the effort.  It’s not always about the gifts.  The greatest gift is time spent together.

That is why I love planning events.  For those who make the effort to plan them, and to attend them, it is well worth it in the end.  Whether the events are happy or sad, business or pleasure, fund-raising or friend-raising, events bring people together.  From backyard barbeques to black tie galas - at events connections are made, relationships are forged, and bonds are strengthened.  There is NO substitute for spending time with others.  Cheers!