✨Holding Groups Through the Unexpected
- Dahlene Holliness
- Dec 23, 2025
- 2 min read
Orchestrating a group — whether it’s a dinner, an experience, or a trip — is really what I do.
I’ve always seen groups like a puzzle.
Everyone comes in as their own piece, with their own needs, energy, expectations, and sometimes things they don’t even realize they need yet. My job isn’t to force it all to fit — it’s to create the corner.
Because every puzzle needs a strong corner. That corner creates the frame. And the frame is what gives the group a sense of safety, flow, and connection — especially when things shift.
And the truth is, no two group experiences are the same. Each one has its own flow, its own rhythm, and requires a different set of skills depending on the people, the space, and what’s happening in real time.
From there, I’m holding both the people and the details — timing, logistics, preferences, personalities, and those moments that need calm redirection or a thoughtful pivot. I’m paying attention to what’s being said… and what’s not.
At some point, things start to come together — not because everything is perfect, but because the group feels supported enough to stay connected as plans evolve.
And at the end, I step back and take it all in.
Not in an ego way — but with gratitude.
Grateful for working through the uncertainty. Grateful for adjusting as needed. Grateful for creating something that worked, even on a packed Friday night right before the holiday rush.
And this is why I believe groups, when held well, can be transformational.
If you’re looking for someone who can hold both the vision and the variables, this is my lane.
It’s also why the way I approach travel and lifestyle experiences is intentional, curated, and very human — because when the structure is solid, people can relax and actually enjoy themselves.
This is what thoughtful group travel and lifestyle curation looks like.





Comments