12/06/2026
I’ve been to a lot of networking over the years. I’ve also run networking groups before, as part of the EH49 HUB project pre-Covid. So when I started Connect at The Light Room, I knew what “worked” - but I also knew I wanted to create something different.
For years, I’ve had conversations with local business owners who wanted somewhere to talk properly. Somewhere to share ideas, ask honest questions, and be around other people who understand what it’s like being a business owner. Not salesy early morning meetings. Not being forced to refer people you’ve only just met. Something calm.
And I knew there were plenty of formats I could have followed. But I knew The Light Room needed to bring something different. Not louder or more polished. Something quieter, and useful.
So we had our first session last month, and as I guided the conversation, I watched what happened. It turned into a well-held, supportive conversation between business owners. When I asked the group what they’d like, they all said, “more of this please!”
A space to talk about what’s working, what feels hard, and, if you wanted to, ask for help thinking a problem through.
The Light Room itself has some sort of lovely, gentle magic that helps people relax. Add in simple things - good coffee, pastries, comfy chairs, time to settle in, someone steering the conversation so everyone gets to contribute, and being able to take your shoes off and curl up on the couch if you wish - and it becomes something different without needing to force it.
Everyone has time to speak. Everyone has time to listen. And the conversation is gently managed so no one has to fight to be heard. It feels less like traditional networking, and more like a small mastermind around the table.
The next Connect session is next Thursday at The Light Room in Linlithgow, and I’d really love to see a few more people there.
If you’ve been looking for a business space that feels thoughtful, honest and genuinely supportive, you’re very welcome to join us.
Book your space via the link in bio / message me for details.