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 – something real and relevant to this chapter of life. The evening moves through conversation, reflection, and connection in a way that feels natural rather than forced. Nobody is put on the spot. Nobody has to perform. You just show up, and the rest takes care of itself.
Every woman in the room has chosen to be there, and that shared commitment is part of what makes the experience feel so different.
Women tell me they leave feeling lighter than when they arrived. More like themselves. Surprised by how much they enjoyed it, and by the women they met.
That’s what I’m going for. Every single month.
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.
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.
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.
FAQs
Because even as a guest, you’re getting the full gathering experience. A guest fee also means the women who show up are genuinely curious, and not just filling an evening. It keeps the room the right kind of room. And if you join after, your guest fee is credited towards your first month.
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.
You’ll never be asked to share more than you’re comfortable with. Our gatherings work best when everyone engages in a way that feels right for them – whether that’s offering a personal insight, adding a brief comment, or simply listening and participating in other activities. The environment is designed to make authentic sharing feel natural, and you’ll find your own rhythm as you get to know the group.
Connected Hearts is actually ideal for introverts – and many of our members describe themselves that way. Because every gathering is facilitated and has a thoughtful structure and flow, you never have to figure out how to work the room or fill awkward silences. You simply follow the evening as it unfolds. 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.
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.
After the gathering, you’ll receive a personal invitation to join the community.
If the experience felt aligned with what you’re looking for, you’ll have the opportunity to continue as a member. When you join, you’ll gain full access to all member benefits.
That’s exactly why I have women come as a guest first. One evening, no membership, no commitment. Attending as a guest is purely an opportunity for you to experience the community firsthand and decide whether it feels right for you – without any obligation. There’s no presentation, no pitch, and no pressure to join. If membership feels right afterward, you’ll receive a personal invitation – but that conversation happens later, not during your gathering.
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.
Come dressed however you feel comfortable and like yourself. Connected Hearts gatherings are relaxed and welcoming – there’s no dress code, just an invitation to show up as you are.
