Pier Five’s Mental Health Mixer: A Space to Reset, Reflect, and Connect

This past week, Pier Five hosted its very first Mental Health Mixer, a fresh kind of event created to blend wellness, creativity, and meaningful connection into one intentional gathering. This wasn’t your typical networking party. Instead, it was a space designed to slow down, check in with yourself, and engage in real conversations with others navigating the ups and downs of life.

The event welcomed 50 passionate creatives, entrepreneurs, and community members who showed up ready to be present and open. From the moment the mixer began, there was a genuine energy of warmth and vulnerability that set the tone for the afternoon.

To kick things off, guests were guided through a calming breathwork session, helping everyone center themselves and settle into the space. This mindful start paved the way for a powerful panel discussion featuring two incredible voices in mental health: Yanal Dhallieh, founder of Peace Collective, and therapist and podcast host Makena Arntsen from Don’t Worry It’s Confidential. Their candid conversation touched on personal journeys, mental health strategies, and the unique challenges creatives and entrepreneurs face when it comes to self-care. More content to come from that panel on the Pier Five Instagram.

Between the thoughtful dialogue, attendees explored wellness activations from local brands PleaseNotes and Health Hut, discovering tools like affirmation journals and curated self-care essentials that support ongoing mental wellbeing. Light refreshments complemented the experience, with sparkling drinks from Barbet, fresh coffee from Itso Coffee, and delicious charcuterie beautifully prepared by MiBowl. These thoughtful touches, provided by local sponsors, made the event feel like a true community celebration.

Before leaving, guests received special gifts from Peace Collective and HOKA, small reminders of the day’s intention to care for oneself and each other. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and many shared how much they appreciated the chance to slow down, connect deeply, and reflect in a safe, welcoming environment.

Pier Five’s Mental Health Mixer was more than an event; it was a reminder of the importance of holding space for mental wellness in our busy, creative lives. We are grateful to our partners and sponsors who helped make this possible and look forward to hosting many more gatherings that bring community, creativity, and care together.

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Stay tuned to the Pier Five Instagram and mailing list for updated on future events!