Dear Friends,

Faith and I can’t wait to see you all this evening.

This year feels different.

The world is changing at a dizzying pace—sometimes in ways that divide us, sometimes in ways that confuse us, and occasionally even in ways that remind us how much we need each other.

And yet here we are, twenty-one years removed from our tiny Harlem apartment where this beautiful tradition began. And here you are too, old friends and new friends alike, traveling from near and far, making time in a season when time is precious. It means so much to Faith and me that you’ve made the time to be with us tonight.

For the first time ever, this year’s party is outside of our home, and that comes with a lot of uncertainty for us. There’s a meaningful labor of love involved in transforming our home into the backdrop for this special night each year. It’s a lot of work, but we find great joy in the effort. And the laughter and warmth that fill our home for those few hours linger long after the last person leaves (usually around 3am, if you’re curious). To be honest, we’ve wondered whether the heartbeat of this night might feel off without that familiar space.

Still, I’d like to believe it’s not the space that defines the tradition, but the community of people who choose to participate. More than that, it’s how we show up for each other—with humble openness, genuine curiosity, and full presence. That’s the heart of the tradition. That’s what makes it special. And we’re grateful to the Perlant for hosting us tonight—it’s become a special place to us, and we’re excited to share it with you.

Somewhere along the way, I came to believe that tradition is like an emotional form of compound interest. (Yes, I’m the weirdo who somehow finds a way to turn a Christmas party into an economic metaphor.) But hear me out… Each year builds on the last. Many of you keep showing up, making what began as Faith’s and my tradition your own. And over time, that consistency creates something money can’t buy—a moment of joy we can all count on, a reliable point of presence and connection in a world that won’t sit still. The truth is, the party doesn’t have to be perfect (but don’t tell that to Faith!). It just has to be there. Year after year.

To our first-time guests, we’re glad you’re joining us. Please know that you’re not crashing a tradition; you’re becoming part of one. That’s how traditions stay alive—not by closing ranks, but by making room. If you’re here, it’s because we value you and believe you’ll make this tradition a little bit better.

So, no matter whether this is your 1st or 21st year, our ask remains as simple as it’s always been…

Be open, be curious, and be present

Ask the question you’ve been holding back. Share the stories you typically only share when people are really listening, because tonight they probably are. Let yourself be surprised by someone, and give someone the chance to surprise you. This is how we’ve always done it—and this year, it feels more important than ever.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for making this tradition yours.

Happy Holidays,