Presence Over Presents: A Family and Friends Connection Experience

On the winter solstice, as the year darkens and the holidays accelerate, we invite you to pause and practice the gift that matters most: presence.

Presence Over Presents is a two-hour, device-free connection experience designed for couples, families, and friend groups who want to prioritize quality time over consumption this holiday season. Instead of another activity focused on doing or buying, this is an experience built around being together, meaningfully.

At Birdhouse in Amesbury, you'll settle into a warm, cozy space with seasonal treats and hot beverages. Your phones will be secured (we use Yondr pouches), and you'll be guided through 90 minutes of progressively deepening conversation using our thoughtfully designed conversation framework.

This isn't therapy. It isn't a workshop. It's a professionally facilitated space where you can slow down, connect authentically with the people you came with, and practice the presence we so often promise each other but rarely create space for.

What to Expect

When you arrive, you'll be welcomed into a warm space with seasonal refreshments waiting. You'll be guided to your seating area with your group (whether that's your partner, family, or friends), and after a brief welcome and orientation, devices will be secured in Yondr pouches.

The facilitated portion includes three 30-minute rounds of conversation, each building on the last:

• Round 1: Getting Energized - Accessible prompts that help everyone settle in and build comfort
• Round 2: Exploring Connection - Questions that invite curiosity and vulnerability
• Round 3: Essential Self - Prompts that help you access what matters most beyond roles and routines

Each round offers a menu of conversation prompts. You choose which questions resonate most with your group, working through them together with time for both individual reflection and shared conversation.

After the facilitated rounds, you'll have 30 minutes to continue conversations naturally, enjoy more food and drinks, and deepen the connections that have emerged.

Who This Is For

This experience is designed for:

• Couples seeking quality time during the busy season
• Families wanting to practice presence together (kids welcome!)
• Friend groups looking for meaningful connection
• Anyone feeling holiday overwhelm and wanting a different kind of gathering
• People who value real conversation over consumption

All ages welcome. The conversation framework is designed to be accessible for both adults and children while offering genuine depth. When purchasing tickets: Adult tickets are sold in groups (minimum 2), and Youth tickets can be added for children joining your group. Important for families: This is a seated, conversation-based experience lasting 2 hours with all devices secured. Consider your child's comfort level with facilitated conversation when deciding if this is the right fit.