Tell us about the community of people that attended and what their connection to each other were.

Alina: Each time we open up seats to creative souls in our community and the result always surprises me. There are always folks that I have never met, opening up an opportunity to make new friends, share yourself and learn something new. KIN gathers designers, entrepreneurs, artists and musicians. So much love and creativity is cultivated and shared. 

What was one moment in the night that made you tear up or gave you goosebumps knowing that your intention for the evening was coming to life before your eyes?

Alina: The forecast on the day of Vol. 2 dinner had a prediction for severe rainfall and of course, it rained all day. When the rain finally stopped and the sun came out we hurried to get set up. With only 15 minutes until the start, guests started to arrive. I was still walking glassware down a huge hill, running 30 minutes behind. The tables were set up in the valley, which turned into a muddy swamp after all day of rain. After struggling for a bit in our dinner footwear we told everyone to just go barefoot, watching guests take off their shoes and roll up their trousers really made it set in - this is it.

“Community, shared life, the imperfectly perfect moments, the lack of finesse - in all its gritty arises human glory. This is what we are after: a deeper, more meaningful connectivity – muddy feet and all."

We loved the intentional touch of placing a Cultivating Conversations Card at each person’s place setting. How did this gesture connect the guests together?

Alina: The Cultivating Conversation Card Deck is the perfect gesture that made our evening so much more meaningful. We decided to place a card on each place setting giving an opportunity for guests to break the ice and prompt interaction, encouraging everyone to go beyond surface level.

“I remember pausing for a moment and seeing that every single person was engaged in conversation, picking up their cards, exchanging questions, taking time to ponder on these truths. I think ideally every meal should have a time for reflection, a way to look inward, to pay special attention to what’s going on within."

What is next for KIN?

Alina: Frankly, we didn't start with any goals in mind. I am grateful to have shared even one table with these beautiful souls and connected with so many. I try not to put expectations on what I do as so much of this is secondary to my family life. But if I dare to dream, and the timing is right, I would love for KIN to obtain a studio space where we can do even more for our community like host workshops, create opportunities to serve, collaborate and create. Years down the road - community retreats would be a dream.