An event series that provides a unique opportunity to connect with people
Connect & Chat withMichelle is an exclusive monthly networking event in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.
On the first Monday of every month. Two groups: 9am to 11am and 11am to 1pm.
Last two events: Monday 2nd November and Monday 7th December.
See links above for bookings and new registrations.
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Purpose
If you're running a small business and want to meet others in a way that feels natural, genuine, human and supportive, then Connect & Chat withMichelle is for you.
The aim of Connect & Chat withMichelle is to build a community of small business owners and entrepreneurs throughout Southend and Essex who want to cultivate stronger business relationships through meaningful connection, trust and peer support in a relaxed and informal way.
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Community
At Connect & Chat withMichelle, you will always meet a mix of small business owners and entrepreneurs who are open, supportive and genuinely interested in each other. Keeping the groups intentionally small helps create a calm, welcoming and friendly environment where everyone has space to talk, listen with thoughtful conversation.
Attendees leave feeling uplifted, motivated and part of a community that values authenticity, creativity and shared growth.
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Time and place
Connect & Chat withMichelle takes place in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex on the first Monday of each month, with two small groups of 11 attendees: 9am–11am and 11am–1pm.
Each event is hosted upstairs at The Squeeze Café on Leigh Broadway, a much-loved local venue in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea. The setting offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with great coffee, fresh smoothies and delicious food available to purchase.
The last two Connect & Chat dates are Monday 2nd November and Monday 7th December 2026.
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New business event in 2027
withMichelle is launching a new event in 2027 for small business owners across Essex.
The event will bring together experienced speakers to share practical advice, insights and training on a range of topics designed to support personal and professional development, including:
Business confidence
Impactful communication
Leadership and management
Effective networking
Client relationship management
Self-care and wellbeing
“Michelle has a natural ability to get people round a table to connect. It has been so beneficial to me to be able to ask other small business owners advice in a relaxed non-judgmental setting. Everyone is made to feel welcome and valued.”
“Michelle is a keen supporter of local business and is always on hand to make those all-important business connections. With a wealth of knowledge and a personable demeanour, Michelle lifts others up and puts them front and centre in a friendly and supportive way.”
“Michelle is a highly skilled marketing professional with a real gift for building enduring relationships and an exceptional talent for networking. She has a way of connecting with people that feels genuine, warm, and memorable - and she brings that energy into every event she organises and hosts. ”
“What a truly wonderful morning at Michelle’s Connect & Chat! Loved connecting with fellow local business owners and hearing their stories. It’s always inspiring to see the enormous talent and dedication of the small businesses in our community.”