F*ck the Freeze: A Speed-Dating and Wellness Resource Fair for Black Queer Folks
Fall is more than a seasonal change when we bring out our sweaters and sip on tea. It's an invitation to ground, reflect, and gather in ways that honor our bodies, invite in rest and reap the benefits of the year's harvest. So often, we're moving too fast to hear what the season and our own spirits are trying to tell us.
F*ck the Freeze is a slow, intentional afternoon designed to bring Black queer folks back to ourselves and each other. This is a space to exhale, create, learn, and be fed both literally and figuratively.
There are two tracks you can pursue during the event. The first is the 'Mixy Mixy Track' in which you receive a curated pathway through the event that connects you to other participants in a revamped version of speed dating. Whether you're looking for a new friend, a fellow reality tv lover, or a lover, this speed dating experience takes the awkwardness out of meeting someone new and broadening your community.
You can also just enjoy the 'Woo Woo Track' which includes the wellness aspects of the event that are outlined below:
Spiritual Herbalist Avery of Sunflower Ally will guide us through the medicine of the season. You'll make an anti-inflammatory and immune boosting fire cider and take home a bag of herbal goodies.
A glamour magic space where you can meet those who are dedicated to making you look and feel beautiful through our gloomy months. Local estheticians, braiders, nail techs and make-up artists will be on deck for you to chat with. We'll also have vendors offering various forms of body adornments that bring out your inner glow.
A meet and greet with movement and body work providers to chart a path forward with how you'll stay active during the fall and winter. From pickleball to swimming to team sports, massage, boxing, yoga and dancing, there will be many options to choose from and space to move your body to the groove of our DJ.
Finally, La Vie La Belle is serving up an herbal-infused brunch.
Western culture has taught us to override our intuition, to dismiss the whispers of our bodies, and to push through instead of pausing. This gathering is about unlearning that. It's about listening to what the season asks of us, tuning into the wisdom of our sacral centers, and remembering that we were never meant to do this alone.
Come as you are. Leave with herbal goodies, a full belly and community connections to carry you through the colder months.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I am not a Black person. Can I join this event?
A: This space is intended for Black queer folks. We're not here to police anyone's queerness but you have to be comfortable being in community with queer folks to be at this event. If this is not you, feel free to purchase an ally ticket that will go towards sponsoring goodies for attendees. We ask that you ensure this event maintains space for it's intended audience.
Q: Who is the speed-dating component intended for?
A: The speed-dating component casts a wide net. You can choose a non-romantic pathway that is focused on introducing you to potential friends and fellow hobbyists.
Q: How will I be matched for the speed-dating component?
A: You will be sent a survey prior to the event that is required for participation in the speed-dating component. It will gather some info to help create intentional matches for you.
Q: What all is included in my ticket?
A: Your ticket gives you access to the vendor market, herbalism workshops (with complimentary herbs), brunch, speed-dating experience and activity demos, and a vibey third-space pop-up experience.
Q: Who is the target age demographic for this event?
A: The target demographic is 25 to 45 but you must be 21 to attend as infused goodies will be available for sampling.
Q: Can you book services from the glamour magic vendors in advance?
A: Yes, you will be sent all of the links to book with our glamour magic vendors which includes nail techs, make-up artists, photographers, and tooth gem techs.