I went back to the newly opened cafe to ask if I could host a Valentine's Day card-making party in their space, for free. The two owners readily agreed! They've responded positively to everything I proposed and I'm getting jazzed for the Thursday, Feb 11 event.
Logistics:
- 5-8pm on a Thursday
- Promotion through a poster in the window, hand-drawn text on a sandwich board, and photos of Valentine's for social media
- Myself and a friend made more than a dozen samples. In doing so, we were reminded how important it is to have examples for people to reference. Facing a pile of blank paper is daunting. Now attendees can be inspired. I will also ensure that many of the supplies are pre-cut to avoid any confusion, frustration or paper waste.
- Prepare questions and conversation starters for attendees
Hypothesis:
- The shared activity of making cards will break down social barriers between people and give permission for engagement and conversation that otherwise would never have occurred.
Objectives:
- Test hypothesis
- Chat with neighbors and get a feel for what they are looking for in a community and their reaction to social capital (I probably won't use that word to describe my research)
- Enjoy a fun craft session
- Photograph and record
- Develop a solid relationship with the cafe, with the hope for continued partnership down the road
