🌸 Old West Side Social: A Golden Hour Gathering That Defined Community

There’s something about the Old West Side in Longview that never stops feeling special. Maybe it’s the way the light hits the century-old porches just right at sunset. Maybe it’s the neighbors who stop mid-walk to chat about their gardens. Or maybe, it’s the way this little pocket of town feels alive — with heart, with history, and with people who genuinely care about one another.

And every so often, a night comes along that perfectly captures all of that.
This one did — right here on 25th Avenue, under the soft shimmer of garden lights, surrounded by laughter, dahlias, and friendship.

At exactly five o’clock, the garden came to life. Golden sunlight spilled across the petals, the air smelled faintly of apple cider and fresh-cut blooms, and fifteen amazing women from our neighborhood gathered to celebrate community — not the kind you scroll past, but the kind you feel.

🌿 Where Blooms Meet Belonging

The evening unfolded like something out of a movie — slow, unhurried, beautiful. A long table was set beneath the trees, draped in soft linens and surrounded by flickering lanterns. The centerpiece? Buckets of vibrant dahlias in every imaginable color — coral, peach, blush, magenta — each one grown with love and intention.

✨ Jana from Bonny Blooms took center stage with her signature mix of talent and grace, leading a live dahlia demonstration that left everyone quietly mesmerized. She didn’t just show us how to arrange flowers — she reminded us that creativity blooms when you slow down long enough to notice beauty in the details.

Her husband Craig stood nearby, sharing his best-kept garden tips with a mix of humor and wisdom that had everyone laughing and learning. There’s something grounding about hearing someone talk about soil, sunlight, and patience — it felt symbolic, like a lesson in life itself.

And as if the flowers weren’t enough, the table overflowed with cozy comforts — fresh-pressed apple cider that warmed your hands and apple-cider doughnuts dusted with sugar that disappeared faster than you could say “just one more.” 🍎✨

By the end of the night, every guest walked away carrying bundles of freshly cut dahlias and her own handcrafted centerpiece — a personal piece of the evening to take home. Each one unique, each one beautiful, just like the women gathered around that table. 🌸

💫 When the Sun Set, the Magic Took Over

As twilight settled over 25th, the garden transformed into something otherworldly.
The lanterns glowed softly. The twinkle lights strung above us shimmered like stars. Laughter danced between the flower beds, and every face glowed in that perfect mix of candlelight and golden hour.

Neighbors who had never spoken before were leaning in close, swapping stories about family, gardens, and life. There were deep belly laughs, warm hugs, and a few tears — the good kind, the kind that come when you realize how rare and precious real connection is.

It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t overdone.
It was simple. Beautiful. Human.

And as I stood there — watching everyone laugh, talk, and carry their flowers home — I couldn’t help but think: this is what makes the Old West Side more than just a neighborhood. It’s a living, breathing community where people show up for each other — and for moments like this.

🏡 Why I Host the Old West Side Social

Every month, I host the Old West Side Social through HOME | Gena Graham, not because I have to, but because I want to. Because I believe that what we build together outside of work — the laughter, the kindness, the shared stories — is what truly defines who we are.

Philanthropy, connection, and community aren’t side notes in my business; they’re the foundation. These events are my way of giving back — of creating space for friendship, creativity, and that nostalgic “small-town heart” feeling that’s hard to find these days.

I love being a realtor — I truly do. But more than that, I love being a neighbor. Someone who knows your dog’s name, waves from the porch, and believes that when we take time to nurture community, everything else flourishes — our gardens, our homes, and our hearts.

Because this isn’t just where I work.
This is where I live.
And that means something to me. 💛

🌸 Until Next Time…

To the fifteen incredible women who joined us — thank you for bringing your laughter, your stories, and your light.
To Jana and Craig, thank you for your generosity, your art, and your heart.
And to everyone reading this who hasn’t come yet — it’s your turn. 🌿

The Old West Side Social isn’t just a night out — it’s an experience, a gathering that reminds us how beautiful life feels when you slow down, sip some cider, and truly connect.

So come to the next one. Bring a friend.
Leave with flowers, a full heart, and a reminder that community still matters — right here, in the Old West Side.

Curious about our next event? 🍰✨ Imagine desserts to die for, cozy fall tablescapes, and a Thanksgiving-inspired evening filled with laughter, warmth, and community.
November 4th, 5pm (address will be announced in the group two days before)— because magic like this deserves to happen often.

Gena Graham | HOME REAL ESTATE
Your Neighborhood Real Estate Expert
Community • Lifestyle • Philanthropy

We just closed on another off-market home right here in the Old West Side — proof that when you know your neighborhood inside and out, opportunity happens quietly but powerfully. This community continues to grow, connect, and thrive in ways that make me prouder than ever to call it home.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in Kalama, Longview, Ridgefield, or anywhere across Southwest Washington, I’d love to help. I’m Gena Graham — your Realtor, neighbor, and Old West Side expert — and I believe the same heart we put into giving back to our community should go into every single real estate transaction.

Because when you love where you live, the results always speak for themselves. 💛

📲 Call or text me anytime at 360.431.5773  or book an appointment below— let’s find your next home, or sell your current one, while continuing to build this incredible community together.

Click here to book a discovery call 🏡

I’m officially a fan—show me the goods (aka your website)! 🏡💻

Gena Graham is a leading real estate expert in Southwest Washington, specializing in luxury homes and waterfront properties throughout Kalama, Camas, and Ridgefield. With over 10 years of experience and countless happy clients, she's your guide to finding the perfect home in SW Washington's dynamic market.

Legal Disclaimer;Every home is unique. The marketing plan, pricing strategy, and listing timeline referenced above are examples of one personalized launch designed for a specific property. Marketing results and buyer response will vary depending on property condition, market conditions, location, and pricing. No two listings are marketed the same. All marketing plans are custom-built based on your home’s features, goals, and ideal buyer. For a tailored strategy built specifically for your property, contact me directly to schedule a consultation.

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