Black Friday Networking Kickback & Fall Mixer

217 North 6th Avenue,Mount Vernon NY 10550

24 September, 2021

Description

An outdoor social for entrepreneurs, professionals, innovators, + investors in MV/NYC to build real community + make genuine connections! Are you going to CONNECT?! Our networking event is a perfect opportunity to meet forward thinkers who are all looking to make meaningful connections with progressive people in our community. Moving away from the overly-rehearsed elevator pitches and predictable "small talk," our team uses our CONNECT "features" to help all guests make unforgettable introductions and dazzling first impressions. We reduce the social pressure, physical barriers, and awkwardness usually associated with networking, creating a vibrant environment conducive for building and exploring. So, have a bite, take a sip, and CONNECT with potential business partners, sponsors, mentors/mentees, new clients, and/or new friends/associates. Share this event with another forward thinkers, and please RSVP as soon as possible. Space is limited. Ticket cost covers food, drinks, and CONNECT raffle ticket(s). ***SPECIAL NOTICE: Many guests had trouble purchasing tickets on Eventbrite for a previous event. Therefore, we STRONGLY suggest that you (1) RSVP ASAP to secure your spot, and (2) purchase your ticket at the door via Venmo or CashApp. Text Sharqi at 202-491-9952 if you have any questions. Event Agenda: 6:30 p.m. - Greetings/Doors Open, Sign In, and Mix + Meet 7:00 p.m. - Welcome, Introduction + 1st Feature: "CONNECT Cannonball” 7:15 p.m. - Mix + Meet 8:00 p.m. - Raffle, #CONNECT Local Business Spotlight & Fireside Chat, and 2nd Feature: “CONNECT Chaser" 8:15 p.m. - Mix + Meet 9:00 p.m. - Closing Remarks, Thanks You, and Giveaway 9:30 p.m. - Farewells/Doors Close ******SPECIAL NOTICE: We use an “RSVP Now-Pay Later” model to support our guests during these uncertain times. Therefore, we need you to: (1) RSVP ASAP to secure your spot by WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 at 6:00 p.m., and (2) purchase your ticket via CashApp ($Sharqness), Zelle (202-491-9952), or Venmo (Sharnetta-Tyler-1) by THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 at 12:00 p.m. ***PLEASE NOTE: Fully vaccinated guests can remove masks upon entering the space to use the restroom, according to New York State law. Unvaccinated and fully vaccinated guests will have to observe the 6-foot social distancing standards outdoor. Seating arrangements and talking spots will be used to support all guests in maintaining a safe environment. Frequently Asked Questions: Question: Can I come alone? Answer: Absolutely! This is a great opportunity to meet new people.Question: Can I bring a guest? Answer: Of course! Feel free to invite friends, colleagues, or other progressive people in your network.Question: What is the suggested age range? Answer: 21 years and older.Question: What is the dress code for this event? Answer: There is no official dress code. Come as you are, business professional, business casual, or after-work chic looks are all welcome.Question: Do I need a ticket to attend? Answer: Yes, you need a ticket to attend. You have to purchase your ticket by THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 at 12:00 p.m. to be included on the guest list.Question: Can I arrive late? Answer: Sure. Join us at the time that works best for you, and we can get you signed in at any point in the evening. Although timely arrival is suggested to maximize your CONNECT experience, 7:30 p.m. is still a good time to arrive. Question: Will there be food and drinks? Answer: Yes, there will be alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available, along with our signature sangria bar. Tapas-style appetizers and light refreshments (including vegan and gluten free options) will be served hot off the grill, as well.Question: Where will the event be held? Answer: The event will be held outdoors on three decks and patios. Restrooms will be indoors and sanitized and disinfected regularly.Question: Will there be outdoor heaters/heat sources? Answer: Of course. There will be a powerful outdoor patio heater, a fire pit and clean fleece blankets available to keep you warm. Question: Should I bring business cards ? Answer: Sure, if that works for you. However, feel free to go digital, and connect with other guests via phone/text/email.Question: Is there music? Answer: Yes! Great music will be played most of the event at the perfect volume for conversing, or grooving when/if you need to.Question: What is the CONNECT Local Business Spotlight? Answer: Each month, we give entrepreneurs/business owners across all industries an opportunity to share their work and journey during a 5-minute presentation, (which starts at 8:00 p.m.). This platform highlights dynamic leadership in our region. The presenter(s) will be available after the presentation for questions and further discussion. If you are interested in presenting your business at our event, reach out to us via the contact information listed below.For more information, follow us on Instagram at @CONNECT_networking. For all other questions, email us at [email protected], or call/text at 202-491-9952. CONNECT co-founders', Sharqi David and Keisha Browne, [sister]ship has been colored with countless shared experiences and exciting adventures. Over the past 15 years, they have known each other as classmates, colleagues, teammates, travel buddies, and of course, friends. Their love of learning with and from amazing people, passion for culture and the arts, and experience hosting events that uplift and inspire brought them together to create CONNECT. The CONNECT CoLab is a networking and consulting group focused on creating strong, vibrant communities and curating genuine, meaningful connections that drive and sustain business-building activity. This dynamic duo takes their social and professional lives very seriously, as both have been critical to their sanity and success. Their work connects them to corporations (like Fidelity Investments and Wayfair), community-based programs (at Howard University and Johns Hopkins University), ventured-backed startups (like Tracflo and Birthright AFRICA), art organizations (like Park Avenue Armory and Soka Tribe), institutions (like Georgetown University, Harvard University, MIT, and Hunter College), and an extensive portfolio of courses and workshops they have designed. So, when these two join forces for people-centered networking over their signature drinks and tasty, tapas-style treats, you can always expect great company, extraordinary connections, and an unforgettable time. So, mark your calendars, and join us for our exclusive, but inclusive events!