CreativeMornings is a breakfast lecture series for the creative community where we gather in 255 cities across 70 countries each month. I found this community when I was searching for work last year, trying to find my place in Wilmington and, honestly, trying to find my footing again. I met the host, Kerry, at a ladies’ happy hour and was instantly drawn to her warmth and the way she spoke about CreativeMornings as more than just an event, but a movement. After attending my first CreativeMornings gathering last February I was hooked. It felt like home. I felt like I could find my people here. I jumped in with both feet, ready to lend a hand however I could.

So when the idea came up to host the CreativeMornings holiday party at The Jewell House this past December, it felt incredibly full-circle. It was a huge honor to be asked and I was so excited to finally open her doors to my Wilmington community. I have a lot of ideas and dreams for this house and this was just the beginning.

The Jewell House has always been more than a house to me. She’s a living, breathing piece of history. A piece of art. One that has held generations of stories, celebrations, and everyday life. Opening her doors to the Wilmington community during the holidays felt exactly right. Old homes are meant to be filled with people, food, and laughter.

One of the most meaningful moments of the night was welcoming two of the Jewell family members back into their family home. It is hard to put into words how special it was for me to welcome them. Witnessing them walk through the rooms, sharing memories and reconnecting with a place that was a huge part of their family’s history brought me so much joy. It was a reminder that while I may be her current steward, this house belongs to a much bigger story than me.

Julia Jewell shared with me how difficult it was for the family to make the decision to sell the house as renting it wasn’t an option. They wanted the next owner to love her just as much as they did. Those words brought tears to my eyes as I know what an honor it is to be the next steward of this gorgeous home. I will treasure her and honor her while I work on giving her her glow back.

Neighbors stopped by, friends gathered, and familiar faces mixed with new ones. There was a steady hum of conversation as guests toured the house, peeking into corners, admiring original details, asking questions about the house. People were genuinely excited to explore, to learn, and to experience the space. That curiosity and appreciation for history is something I treasure deeply.

The weather was perfect until the moment the party started, and the rain began to fall. At one point it was pouring, but it didn’t phase anyone. People gathered on the porch drinking cocktails, taking photos and just enjoying the night.

We shared delicious food and festive cocktails, Our community DJ, JJ strung lights and made sure we he had festive music ringing through out the halls.

And just when you thought the night couldn’t get any more magical, my friend Kathy honored everyone with a puppet show—because what’s a holiday party in an old house without a little unexpected whimsy?

That night reminded me why I love community so much. CreativeMornings gave me a place to land when I needed one. The Jewell House gave us a place to gather and to ring in the holidays.

This house has seen a lot in her lifetime, but nights like this, when neighbors mingle, stories are shared, and community comes alive are one of the very reasons she was saved. And exactly why I’ll keep opening her doors to friends, neighbors and community.

Special thanks to our team that show up every month. Kerry and her sweet mom, Eleanor for helping with set up, clean up and proving the food and drinks. Trish for donating drinks. JJ for keeping us festive with lighting and music, Lyndy for her amazing photos capturing the night and Anna for her help with social media. What a year it’s been volunteering with these amazing souls who give up their time to be part of something great. Here’s to another year of creativity and community.

To learn more or get involved in your local chapter visit https://creativemornings.com