International Friendship Day
World Youth Skills Day
26th June 2023
Go Bold and Maximalise
26th June 2023
It’s time to take a step back and truly be thankful for our wonderful friends, whether it’s a new friendship or ones that are 30+ years old. A bond where we feel understood and heard, share memories or stories, learn from, and be silly with, July 30th is all about the togetherness of us and our friends.
But first, here are some fun facts about friendships;
- “Friends” first hit our televisions in 1994
- People are 36% more likely to quit a habit if their friend quits too
- Babies can start recognising friendships at just 9 months old
- Around 57% of teens make close friends online
- 22% of people who have a close network of friends live longer
There are many things we can do to celebrate, you may already have your plans and traditions for the day but in true OM fashion, we’ve got some ideas for you.
Send it in the Post
The South West is a beautiful part of the country to live but it also, at times, can feel very far away from a lot of places and people. Why not send some lovely cards or a beautiful letter with some thoughtful words letting them know you’re thinking of them. If you’d like to make it extra special, why not get creative and make your own cards or, if cutting and sticking isn’t your thing, then Etsy.com/uk is a great option. They have a large variety of handmade cards that would make the perfect memento.
Enjoy a show
A treat that I really enjoy and ask myself why I don’t do it more often is going to the Theatre. There’s nothing like getting dressed up and heading down to the Theatre Royal to enjoy a fantastic production. It’s always a great evening out and a perfect way to make memories with your friends. Perhaps a couple of glasses of something fancy and some ice cream at the interval wouldn’t go a miss either?
Let’s get Crafty
The Royal William Yard is never in short supply of things to do, particularly at the Ocean Studios. Not only do they have a café with lots of food, drinks and delicious cakes but they also have a large variety of creative classes to take part in. Why not try the Print & Prosecco evening on 12th July or Lino Printing for beginners, there are also Sewing and Screenprinting workshops too if you’d like to take up a new hobby together or brush up on your skills.
Catch a Movie
Whilst we’re on the topic of The Royal William Yard, let’s talk about the new kid on the block, Everyman Cinema. Think, ‘going to the cinema’ but with a twist, swap your soft drinks and popcorn for a cocktail and a burger, all deliciously served to your seat ... which is also a comfy velvet sofa. The venue also serves stunning drinks and a dining area before going into the screen, so it’s a great place to have a catch-up before you enjoy your film.
Time for a mini adventure
If you fancy some light hearted fun then look no further than Paradise Island Adventure Golf. With two unique 18 hole courses to take on, you can enjoy the twists and turns, humps and bumps and venture through and try to hit the perfect hole-in-one which will reward you with a free game. With the addition of The Bunker, you’ll be fuelled by Mexican style menu and a selection of drinks to keep you going. A perfect activity for day or night and a great option for a group gathering.
Slow it down
Sometimes it’s nice to strip it all back and just spend some quality time together by taking a flask of tea or coffee (or with this heat, a reusable bottle of water) and going for a wander along a coastal path or take a blanket and head down to one of our beautiful local beaches. It’s great to have that balance and arrange something slower-paced as it’s important to share those moments and check in with each other. The wonderful thing about friends is that you’re each other’s personal life coach and counsellor, they’re a place where you can offload without the fear of being judged. Our friends are our safe space and we are theirs.
