Why Community Matters
Local creativity is overflowing in communities as moms, dads, small business owners, nonprofit leaders and volunteers are finding new ways to communicate in this new world of social isolation. Their coping strategies and ingenuity are beyond inspiring!
We are proud to introduce you to these innovators in “Why CommunityMatters”, a series made possible by LIFEWTR.
Meet Gayle Szuchman, long-time Fairfield resident and owner of Events by Gayle and co-founder of Fairfield County Wedding Concierge
Can you tell us if you or any of your colleagues are doing creative things at home to find joy and inspiration?
My daughter and I ordered painting and craft projects from Amazon when we started the #stayathome. It's been a nice change of pace working together on craft projects, listening to music and chatting. My creative inspirations are usually centered around work so taking time to create something for myself has been very rewarding. We have also been keeping our wild bird feeder filled and really enjoy watching the beautiful birds and chipmunks that are visiting our backyard. I know some of my catering colleagues have been doing a lot of cooking and posting recipes on Facebook.
If you are a parent, have you found creative ways to engage kids at home?
I have teenagers and they are savvy with staying in touch with their friends online. We have had some fun with TikTok. My daughter enjoys photography so she's been taking some beautiful nature photos around our house and shares them with me. My daughter and I enjoyed a virtual admitted student day with one of the colleges she was considering, which led to her commitment to that school.
Do you know of any local businesses or nonprofits innovating to serve communities during this difficult time? How?
Ava's Party Design in Bethel is working hard in her studio, making masks for first responders. Normally she would be using her studio for balloon creations. I am very proud of her efforts during this difficult time.
With the new norm of practicing social distancing, how are you finding creative ways to connect with family and friends?
I have been connecting with family and friends through Facebook, Facetime, phone calls and text messages. I had a great Facetime session with a cousin in Switzerland. For our Passover seder this year, we did a Zoom conference which included family in Virginia, Boston and New Jersey. I don't normally spend the holidays with some of these relatives because of travel distance. However, due to a Zoom seder, it actually gave us the opportunity to be together this year!
Community matters - now more than ever. We are thankful to LIFEWTR for helping us to connect and stay strong.