Guest Experience2026-08-11T16:58:56-07:00

One Evening Can Change Everything

What to Expect at a Gathering

You’ll walk in not knowing what to expect. Within the first few minutes, that feeling will start to ease.

Every gathering is built around a monthly theme that’s relevant to everyday life. The evening follows a welcoming, guided flow, so you never have to wonder what to say or do. Nobody is put on the spot. Nobody has to perform. You simply arrive, settle in, and enjoy the experience.

After their first gathering, women often tell me they almost talked themselves out of coming – and that they’re so glad they didn’t.

They leave feeling lighter than when they arrived. More like themselves. Surprised by how much they enjoyed it, and by the warmth of the community.

That’s what I’m going for. Every single month.

If you’re feeling a little nervous, you’re in very good company. Nearly every member has told me she felt the same way before attending her first gathering. The wonderful part is what I hear next – that within just a few minutes, those nerves began to melt away.

You don’t have to know anyone. You don’t have to be outgoing. You don’t have to have the perfect thing to say. Just come as you are. We’ll take care of the rest.

Cheryl Dillon, Founder

Before my first gathering, I was a mix of excited, curious, and very nervous. I remember wondering if I’d feel out of place or regret coming, and I definitely had moments where I almost didn’t go.

But something in me still wanted to show up, and I’m really glad I did. Driving home, I felt calmer and more at ease than I did on the way there. I remember just feeling grateful I didn’t let my hesitation win.

Meg W., Carlsbad

I recently moved to Carlsbad after a major life transition, and I’ve been feeling pretty isolated. Before coming, I was worried I’d feel awkward, not fit in, or be the odd person standing alone in the corner. I almost talked myself out of it because staying home felt easier.

Driving home, I felt lighter, hopeful, and proud of myself for showing up. It reminded me that even though making new connections can feel scary, there are good people out there and I don’t have to navigate this chapter of my life alone.

Brigitte A., Carlsbad

Before going I was curious and not sure what to expect. I have to say that I did almost get cold feet, just because it seemed like an extroverted activity for an introvert like me. But I figured why not try and see what it’s like?

When I saw how welcoming and open everyone was, I felt very comfortable and at ease. I especially liked the way people shared and responded to the sharing of others. It felt like everyone was really being seen and heard in ways that don’t always happen in groups.

Amy P., Carlsbad
I’ll be honest, I was nervous before my first gathering. I’d had some not-so-great experiences in other groups, and I wasn’t sure this would be any different. But I felt comfortable and safe almost immediately. I could just be myself.

What surprised me most was how honest the space feels. There’s a warmth and authenticity here that’s hard to find. I’m someone who takes time to ease in, and Connected Hearts has given me exactly that – a natural, genuine way to build real friendships without any pressure. I’m so grateful this community exists.

Brenda G., Escondido

Experience The Community as a Guest

Your Guest Experience Includes:

  • A full two-hour Connected Hearts experience;
  • A welcoming, guided evening centered around a monthly theme;
  • Light refreshments and everything you’ll need for the evening;
  • An opportunity to experience the community before deciding whether membership is right for you.

One-Time Guest Experience: $60

About the cost of a nice dinner out, but what you’ll take home lasts much longer.

If you choose to become a member afterward, we’ll apply your entire guest fee toward your membership.

In honor of my birthday, here’s my gift to you – use code: BIRTHDAYGAL at checkout for 55% off. Registration closes September 6th, or when the gathering reaches capacity – whichever comes first.

Gatherings are held one Tuesday evening each month from 6pm-8pm in Carlsbad.

Once you’re registered, you’ll receive a personal confirmation email with the gathering location and everything you need to know before you arrive.

Come as you are. Leave feeling Funderful.

Gatherings are intentionally kept small, so all reservations are final.

FAQs

What can I expect during my evening as a guest?2026-07-31T15:42:56-07:00

The evening is designed to feel relaxed and natural from the moment you arrive. We start with light refreshments and easy conversation – a chance to settle in and get comfortable before the evening begins.

From there the evening moves into a facilitated experience built around that month’s theme. It’s engaging and fun, and it goes somewhere real without ever feeling heavy or forced. Most women tell me the thing that surprises them most is how comfortable they feel, and how quickly the two hours goes.

Do I have to participate in sharing?2026-07-31T15:35:09-07:00

Not at all. You’re always welcome to participate at whatever level feels comfortable to you. Many guests find themselves sharing more than they expected simply because the atmosphere feels so welcoming, but there’s never any pressure.

What if I’m an introvert?2026-07-31T15:33:52-07:00

You’re in wonderful company. Many of our members describe themselves as introverts. Because every gathering follows a thoughtful, guided flow, you never have to compete for attention or figure out how to join in. Most introverts say it’s the most comfortable social experience they’ve had in years because there’s nothing to perform. You just show up and let the evening carry you.

 

Can I come alone, or should I bring a friend?2026-07-31T15:55:31-07:00

Most women come alone – and are surprised by how quickly they feel at ease. The evening is designed so that everyone feels included and welcomed from the moment they walk in, regardless of whether they know anyone in the room. That said, if you’d like to bring a friend, she is welcome to register as a guest too.

Why is there a fee for the guest experience?2026-07-31T15:46:57-07:00

Even as a guest, you’re experiencing a full Connected Hearts gathering. The guest fee helps support the experience itself, and it also gives everyone a little skin in the game. Because each gathering is thoughtfully prepared and intentionally kept small, women who register are much more likely to follow through on attending, creating a more engaged and reliable experience for everyone.

If you decide to become a member afterward, we’ll apply your entire guest experience fee toward your membership.

Where are Connected Hearts gatherings held?2026-06-20T12:16:44-07:00

Our Signature Gatherings take place at a private, welcoming venue in Carlsbad.

To ensure the privacy and comfort of our circle, the specific address is shared only with registered attendees. Whether you are joining us as a guest or as a member, you will receive the full location details in your confirmation email.

Is this going to feel like a sales pitch?2026-07-31T15:37:27-07:00

No. My focus is helping you have a wonderful evening, not convincing you to join. The best way to understand Connected Hearts is simply to experience it. If it feels like home, you’ll know.

What happens after I attend as a guest?2026-07-31T15:36:06-07:00

There are absolutely no high-pressure sales conversations. If Connected Hearts feels like the kind of community you’ve been looking for, you’ll receive information about becoming a member and can decide in your own time. If it’s not the right fit, that’s completely okay too.

What should I wear?2026-07-31T15:38:18-07:00

Whatever makes you feel comfortable and like yourself. Most women come in casual, put-together clothing. If a gathering has a fun seasonal theme, you’re always welcome to join in, but it’s completely optional.

Sometimes, the best things in life begin just outside our comfort zone. This might be one of them.

If part of you is curious and part of you is hesitant, let the curious part win.

Limited spots available each month

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