prairie girl musings

Category: Events

Why I’m Hosting My First-Ever Event

In just a couple weeks, I’ll be hosting my very first event: a long lunch with two of my favourite local businesses. Food, Wine & Life Online is a chance to meet likeminded folk who cherish good food, organic wine and conversation.

The idea to host a gathering came about while scrolling through Instagram (typical). Feeling increasingly detached from the current social media landscape, I noticed how many accounts I was following purely for inspiration. My feed’s become saturated with similar photos using similar engagement strategies. I’m following so many accounts and falling deeper and deeper into the rabbit hole.

I think many of my friends and fellow digital nomads feel the same way. We’re all becoming disillusioned with the online landscape and what it’s become. Spending hours working alone, creating content, writing blog posts or editing videos means we forget to slow down, to take care of ourselves and check in on each other.

Having attended countless blogger events in Toronto, I now feel like I’m in a position to plan and host an event of my own. Specifically, I want to host something that’s less about surface-level networking and more about vulnerability and forming deeper connections. I was inspired by a Kinfolk gathering I attended a few years ago, where I sat between two people I’d never met before. These gatherings are intimate meals in gorgeous restaurants and homes. They are seasonal celebrations designed by local chefs and creatives. Christchurch needs more of these sorts of gatherings.

I want to live a more considered life, at a measured pace, where I step back and appreciate each moment. I want to get to know my neighbours and fellow entrepreneurs, to contribute to my creative community and the well-being of my city. This event is my first step in that direction, so I hope you’ll come along to see what it’s all about.

Held at Grater Goods in Sydenham, Food, Wine & Life Online will bring together people from different corners of the city for a three-course vegan lunch and wine by North Canterbury’s own, Greystone Wines. In attendance will be a handful of creatives, foodies and small business owners, but most importantly locals who are looking for new opportunities within the community. Christchurch has been through so much, more than any city of its size should ever endure. So, let’s take time to get to know each other better, to be more empathetic and kind.

See you on August 31st.

August 14, 2019
How To Network Like A Pro

Most of us are expected to network a handful of times in our professional and personal lives. Whether you’ve recently moved to a new city or you’re gunning for a new role at work, networking is a part of life. And as much as networking freaks many of us out, it’s a necessary way to shake up your routine and get out of your comfort zone.

In honour of attending iD Fashion Week next week, I thought I would revisit my favourite networking advice and share my own tips with you.

Go solo. Admittedly attending events with a friend is less daunting than flying solo, but you won’t cover nearly as much ground. You’ll also be tempted to spend the time catching up instead of meeting new people. Going alone, you’ll be more engaged and more likely to make a new contact or two.

Dress the part. First impressions are crucial in networking situations. Assess the invite or press release prior to getting dressed. Is it a corporate or fashion event? Is it indoors or outdoors? Put your best foot forward by choosing an outfit that fits well. And if you’re attending a foodie event, be sure to wear comfortable pants (elastic waistbands, anyone?)

Confidence is key. This goes hand-in-hand with my last point. You may be perspiring in your pumps, but don’t let it show. A simple smile coupled with a strong handshake goes a long way. And remember, everyone else is just as nervous as you.

Business cards. You’ll be talking to a lot of new people, so arm yourself with business cards. You never know if your newest client is right around the corner!

Be interested. While many of us worry about being interesting, it’s more important to be interested, particularly in networking scenarios. Ask engaging questions, smile and be attentive.

Put your phone down. This is a hard one, especially at blogger events where capturing the moment is required. Don’t make the mistake of being attached to your phone all night. Look up, smile at new faces, and be the first to introduce yourself.

March 9, 2016
Sweaters 4 Syrians

If you’ve ever met my friend, Navroz, you’ll know she has impeccable style. Everything she wears is so perfectly put together that it immediately makes me question my outfit. On top of that, she is one of the most wonderful people I know. She’s warm and generous, and this Saturday, October 24th, she’s hosting a Vintage Sweater Sale at Tucana Coffee. I’m no longer living in Toronto, but I’d be there in a heartbeat if I could. Not only will the sweaters be highly covetable, thanks to Nav’s sartorial genius, all proceeds will go to a Syrian family with young children. So, get amongst it and give back to this worthy cause!

#Sweaters4Syrians
Tucana Coffee, 1413 Dundas St W( Dundas and Gladstone – south side)
11am-4pm

Be sure to share your photos with the hashtag, #sweaters4syrians! Thanks for your support!

Styling by Navroz Lalani
Photography by Jaclyn Locke

October 22, 2015