Soft Spells Galentine’s Debrief: What I Learned Hosting My First Event
- Maria Rizzuto
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 27
Soft Spells Galentine’s sold out.
20 creative, kind women gathered in a cozy artist’s studio for an afternoon of crafting, food, and connection — and the event received 5 out of 5 stars from attendees.
For a first event, that feels incredibly special.
But the real value wasn’t just in the ratings or the sold-out tickets — it was in the lessons learned and the moments that mattered most.
Hosting this event confirmed something important: people don’t come just to make things — they come to feel something.
And the strongest moments of the day were surprisingly consistent.
The Moments That Sparkled
Looking back, the most meaningful parts of the afternoon weren’t about how many crafts we completed — they were about learning, connection, and atmosphere.
The real sparkle happened when:
Someone learned a new skill for the first time
Two strangers started chatting like old friends
Everyone paused to share a meal together
The room settled into a calm, creative rhythm
The floral workshop was a perfect example. When people learned how to build a bouquet step-by-step, you could feel the energy shift — there was curiosity, focus, and pride.
People weren’t just decorating something; they were gaining knowledge and confidence.
That sense of discovery is something I want to keep building into future events.
Depth Over Breadth
One of the biggest lessons was simple:
It’s better to go deep than wide.
We explored multiple crafts — tote painting, claw clips, and floral arranging — and while that variety was fun, the moments that resonated most were the ones where people had time to slow down and really learn.
Future Soft Spells events will focus more on depth and knowledge-sharing, creating space for people to truly immerse themselves in a craft instead of moving quickly from one activity to another.
Four Hours Is a Big Commitment
Another clear takeaway: four hours is a long event.
The extended format created a lovely slow pace, but it’s also a significant time commitment — especially on a weekend.
Going forward, I’ll be experimenting with a 2-hour format, designed to feel:
Focused
Relaxed
Accessible after work
Easy to say yes to
Shorter gatherings will make it easier for more people to join while still preserving the warmth and creative energy that made this first event special.
What I’m Keeping
Some things worked so well they’re here to stay:
Good food matters.
Sharing a meal created natural moments of connection and comfort.
Themes create magic.
Having a clear creative theme helped people step into the experience.
Atmosphere changes everything.
Soft lighting, cozy seating, and a welcoming space made people feel at ease almost immediately.
Creative positivity is contagious.
When people gather to make things together, the energy is naturally supportive and uplifting.
Future events will continue to prioritize food, fun themes, cozy lighting, and welcoming creative vibes.
What Comes Next: Starfall Painting Night
The next Soft Spells gathering builds directly on these lessons.
A shorter format.One focused craft. A cozy after-work atmosphere.
Celebrate Starfall and the Spring Equinox with a cozy ACOTAR-inspired night of painting, wishes, and mocktails.
Join us on March 20 (6–8 PM) for a magical evening where you'll paint and embellish your own acrylic wishing star, sip Tamlin’s Tears, and celebrate the Night Court as spring begins.
The night includes:
⭐ Guided acrylic painting on circular canvases
⭐ Pizza, snacks, and dessert
⭐ Signature mocktail: Tamlin’s Tears
⭐ A Starfall-inspired wish ritual
⭐ Cozy magical vibes
✨ Early Bird tickets available until March 13 - Use code EARLYBIRD for 20% off
$60 instead of $75
Perfect for ACOTAR lovers and cozy BookTok nights 💫
📅 March 20 · 6–8 PM📍 Near Metro Beaubien
Limited spots available.
