Lisa Gareau

This month I spent some time honouring the spirit of International Women's Day by re-listening to conversations with many of the inspiring women who have joined me on "The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners" ... and shared some of them with you here on LinkedIn over the last couple of weeks. Now, as March comes to a close I encourage you to explore the podcast, link through to listen to one of the inspiring women featured, and get ready learn to start planning and promoting events with "Connections First". www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca/Podcast If you find one you love, share your favourites in the comments below! 😀

Here we go again - gathering changemakers in Calgary! 😀 #calgaryalberta #yycliving #yyccommunityevents #yyccommunity #yycbusiness #yycvolunteer Are YOU a Social Impact Leader, Non-profit Team Member, Local Changemaker? DM us for more info and the link to register for free! JOIN Marcela Zafra and I - @lisagareau_connectioncoach @candyeventconsulting - on Thursday, April 10 from 6:30-8:30 pm mst at the new Staples Studio in Calgary's University District! 🎉 @staplescanada @staplesstudiocanada @staples.studios #universitydistrictyyc #calgary #yyc Part of a Grounded and Growing Movement by @jonforgood & @beckyforgood at @weareforgood 😊

Happy Birthday to #mygirl @journee_live ❤️ I can’t imagine this beautiful life without you! 😘 #keepshining #birthdaygirl

I'd love to meet you at a "Night of Innovation, Connection & Purpose" on Friday, March 28 hosted by the unstoppable team at SAIT Women in Business Club! @sait_wib "Join us for a night where business meets creativity—all in support of a great cause! This special event brings together influential business leaders and entrepreneurs for a thought-provoking panel discussion, followed by an open mic session featuring live performances. But it’s more than just networking and entertainment—it’s about making a difference. All proceeds will go toward @mainsprings.yyc Mainsprings Pregnancy and Family Support, helping to create lasting change where it’s needed most. Enjoy tacos, coffee, and meaningful connections while supporting a mission that matters. Special thanks to Aroma Cafe @aromacafebaryyc 1845 33 Ave. S.W., Marda Loop Calgary, and owner @miguelcortines for allowing us to use their amazing cafe space, experience a delightful taco party and make this event possible! 🙌🏻 A special shout out to our Project Management instructor Dr. Tom Morin DSocSci for guiding us in every step. 🫡 Event details: 📅 Friday March 28 starting at 6:30 pm mst 📍 Aroma Cafe, 33rd Avenue, SW 🎟️ Secure your spot by March 18 with the link below or DM me for the link: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/founders-mic-entrepreneurs-night-and-open-mic-event-tickets-1264309276079?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl #WomenLeaders panel: yours truly, Lisa Gareau, Melissa Martin, Bianca Marinho, Jutta Wittmeier ProjectTeam: Merryl Dela Masa, Nathalia Moraes Xavier, May Ann Abasta, Katelyn Juneau, Stephanie Sicat Let’s come together, share ideas, and uplift a greater cause!" PS. The open mic portion of the night will be hosted by my honey @timgareaumusic 😁 #NetworkingForGood #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Mainsprings #LiveEntertainment

@internationalwomensday_global On this International Women’s Day know you CAN do what you need to do to. You’re stronger than you think. 💪🏼 #findyourpeace #findyourplace #findyourpower

Sunny start to 55! ☀️☀️☀️ #shineon

I’ve made it over the rainbows! 🌈 🌈#beautifulskies #endoftherainbow

My man. My love. ❤️ @timgareaumusic #valentinesday

My loves. My girls. ❤️❤️ @sharayaah @journee_live #valentinesday

@aromacafebaryyc Aroma’s Open Mic on 33 Ave & @timgareaumusic & Calgary Meals On Wheels @calgarymealsonwheels #yychotchocolatefest 😁

Gabriella Robuccio – or Gabby as she has invited me to call her – has taken it on herself to put her event experience to work to empower event professionals, one relationship at a time. We all say relationships are one of the most – if not the most – important aspect of event planning. But how many of us are ready to get real about how we are creating, cultivating, and caring for those relationships? Gabby’s professional journey has spanned over a decade and has included projects of varying scopes within the event industry. The Emmy sitting on her home office shelf was hard won and is a testimony to her exceptional work as a production manager for ESPN – where she helped to produce some of their top global projects! Moving on from ESPN she jumped into the high stakes world of producing fundraising events for a nonprofit healthcare foundation that spanned multiple American states. Gabby is now the Founder of @proeventtips where her focus is on providing event professionals of all levels with the tools and training to develop crucial, event specific, relationship management and leadership skills. With each episode of this podcast, I try to describe the essence of each Natural Connector in the title of the episode. As I was listening to our conversation – over and over (It’s one of the gifts of editing each episode myself!) – I kept thinking, “The work Gabby is doing could revolutionize the way event planners experience every relationship on their event journey!” The Oxford Dictionary defines the word “Revolutionary” as “involving or causing a complete or dramatic change.” Gabby’s passion to see relationships change in the events industry is inspiring! So ... welcome to my conversation with "Gabriella Robuccio, Emmy Award Winning Production Manager, Relationship Revolutionary, and Natural Connector"! Listen in wherever your find your podcasts, DM us for the link, or copy and paste this link in your browser... https://www.buzzsprout.com/1812614/episodes/16556706

Huge CONGRATS are in order on this CHILLY day for long-time client and dear friend @nita_knapp_ #coachingwithnita and the start of her #pinkrevivalretreat today! I’m ready to warm up in Nita’s bright light with with 80 local women ready to embrace their pink! #clientlove #connection #roadtrip #creatingpossibilities #mayerthorpe #alberta

Sometimes things need to be said. More than once. #youaresafehere #everychildmatters #weareallhuman #banffdowntown #doorway #message

Stunning skies! #banff #kananaskis #calgary

Posted @withregram • @genwellproject Want to create meaningful connections but don’t know where to start? 💬✨ Join the GenWell newsletter for exclusive tips, event updates, and resources to help you become a connection catalyst. Subscribe today, your journey to better connections starts here. 📨 #GenWell #StayConnected

This week at the @calgarylibrary 📚📚📚Which one would you pick to pump up your event planning? #read #learn #grow #plan #eventplanning #leadership

This is exactly where my brain goes when my #hunkyhubby @timgareaumusic says, “We should get an rv!” 😍 #rvofmydreams #revupyourstyle

Are YOU a Social Impact Leader, Non-profit Team Member, and/or Local Changemaker in Calgary? This Thursday - January 23 - I'm excited to host an in-person meetup where Calgary changemakers will discuss the global #impactup theme of “MULTIPLY: Unlocking the power of community to multiply your impact.”* ☺️ If you are in the Calgary area join me and a small group of changemakers at the beautiful community hub by Carya - Village Commons - in Calgary’s East Village from 6-8 PM* MST. It's FREE ... simply register here - https://lu.ma/11e0a3gr - and we'll see you there! DM us for a link to this poster and for the links to register! { *This FREE quarterly worldwide gathering of changemakers was created by Jon McCoy @jonforgood , Becky Endicott @beckyforgood , and the curious, kind, and connection-focused team at We Are For Good @weareforgood 🥰 Learn more and sign up for the global livestream here: https://www.weareforgood.com/impactup }

Hello “changemaking” friends of Candy, it’s time to reconnect! #impactup Join me at ImpactUp - the FREE quarterly worldwide gathering of changemakers created by Jon McCoy @jonforgood , Becky Endicott @beckyforgood , and the curious, kind, and connection-focused team at We Are For Good! @weareforgood On Thursday January 23 we’ll lean in to the global theme of “Multiply: Unlocking the power of community to multiply your impact.” DM me for the links! ☺️ As a fellow changemaker, I know both time and money can be limited as we continue the work of creating a positive impact in the world. Participating in ImpactUp - online and/or in-person - is not only FREE but joining in is as easy as 1-2-3! Step 1: Join the world of changemakers online during the day for the #impactup live stream by registering here: http://weareforgood.com/impactup Step 2: If you are in the Calgary area join me and a small group of changemakers at the beautiful community hub by Carya - Village Commons - in Calgary’s East Village from 6-8 PM* MST. Simply register here: https://lu.ma/11e0a3gr (Not in the Calgary area? There may be an ImpactUp local meetup in your area here: https://lu.ma/weareforgood ) @caryacalgary Step 3: Our time together will be carefully crafted to help you connect with fellow changemakers in and around our local #yyc community. Come to the table with your thoughts on how a stronger community could help YOU make a more significant, positive impact with - and for - those you are working to serve. Your voice matters. Your community needs you. I’m excited to have you with us!

My conversation with Artist, AI Ethicist, Tenacious Truth-teller, and Natural Connector, Christian Ortiz ✊🏽 @therealchristianortiz is just the conversation for "such a time as this". I invite you to link through, listen in, and be open to learning more about how you can create a more inclusive world around you ... and in the events you plan! The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners - Season 4, Episode 8 www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca/Podcast • • • • • Christian Ortiz is a multifaceted American talent based out of Denver, Colorado, known for his groundbreaking work as a filmmaker, musician, photographer, artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He has been bridging creativity and business for years, specializing in helping creatives build sustainable businesses while empowering companies to create meaningful, impactful brands. Through his innovative social media management company – Mod Atlas Media @mod_atlas_media – Christian has helped hundreds of brands align their digital presence with their core values, fostering growth that is both innovative and socially responsible. Christian is on a mission to transform the tech industry by embedding diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) into its very core. He’s not just a tech entrepreneur—He’s a global advocate for social justice, using the power of AI and creative innovation to drive real change. His passion to see change led him to develop Justice AI an AI-driven solutions that was created to dismantle systemic biases. Justice AI is a tool designed to promote fairness and equity within corporate environments, ensuring businesses not only grow but grow ethically and inclusively. @justice.a.i Christian is mobilizing social activists, creatives, and tech innovators to reshape the tech landscape into one that reflects and amplifies the voices of underrepresented communities. His influential work extends from the US to Uganda, serving on numerous boards and driving change. In our conversation today Christian shares his belief that we can enjoy a future where technology serves everyone and that – when working together – we can all see that vision become a reality!

Cozy coffee at home #abcanada , colourful mug from @risepottery #peicanada , coaching my @candyeventconsulting clients #worldwide to connect better with their customers, clients, core team, and community members through the EVENTS they plan! #letsgo #buildconnectionpoints

Through four decades of planning and promoting events, I've learned to embrace my life experiences as a source of inspiration for my work. For over 16 years - it's been my job - and *JOY* - to encourage everyday event planners to embrace their experiences so they can enhance their event planning activities too. As you gear up for another year of planning your own events, I invite you to download my story-filled, heart-centered book - "Event Planning from the Inside Out: Embrace Your Experiences & Enhance Your Planning". Reading and reflecting on "Candy's 5 Keys of Event Planning" in this way might be just what you need to embrace YOUR experiences so you can enhance YOUR planning! Simply link through to download your copy of my book for FREE (no signup required) on our Candy website here: www.CandyConsulting.ca/Resources ... or DM me for the link. 😀 I can't wait to help you embrace your experiences so YOU can enhance your planning! 💖 Want to explore what's possible as you plan and promote your own events this year? Let’s connect! www.CandyConsulting.ca/Clarity Published by @candyeventconsulting : Making Your Team Stronger • Content collaboration with Executive Support Media @executivesupportmagazine @executivesupportmedia • Coloring Book* Art by Dean Stanton @deanstanton1 *Yes! Get out your pencil crayons as you work through the 5 Keys of Event Planning in this special publication!

Posted @withregram • @candyeventconsulting Hey Changemaker! It’s time to unlock the power of community to MULTIPLY your impact. 😀 Join We Are For Good Founders Jon McCoy @jonforgood and Becky Endicott, CFRE @beckyforgood online ... and local hosts around the world - like Calgary-local, Candy Founder Lisa Gareau @lisagareau_connectioncoach - in-person on Thursday, January 23 as - together - we continue to build an Impact Uprising! @weareforgood ImpactUp is the quarterly gathering of disrupters, changemakers, nonprofiteers + social impact champions who gear up for one day, leaning into one theme, ready to have one big - impactful - convo. DM us for details!

"Kevin (Bacon) and I have always been centred on 'connection is important'. People don't just like connection - we actually *need* it as human beings. Creating ways that people can plug into community organizations and show up - feel that sense of joy, belonging, and connection - is really powerful. That gets people from just doing things once to being an ongoing volunteer, board member, donor, supporter, sharing things online ... feeling engaged ... feeling they are part of something." - Stacy Huston, Impactful Storyteller, Compassionate Changemaker, and Natural Connector. (Season 4, Episode 7 The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners) Stacy is the Executive Director of http://www.SixDegrees.Org, a nonprofit founded by actor and philanthropist Kevin Bacon that uses social networking to amplify the unsung heroes and causes in communities everywhere. Listen in to my conversation with Stacy on The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1812614/episodes/16363814 Want more? I've posted the *uncut* Zoom recording of our conversation on the Candy Event Consulting : Making Your Team Stronger Youtube channel here: https://youtu.be/hTkOIsHQhOI?si=_ViaMshUQufN6AQx Curious about the work of SixDegrees.Org? Visit https://www.sixdegrees.org/about Kevin Bacon: The Untold Story Behind SixDegrees.Org: https://youtu.be/Q_t9Z2gxHf4?si=IMuR8wSHXNCyElsW

Posted @withregram • @theconnectionarchitect Welcome to a special uncut version of the recent conversation between Stacy Huston, @sixdegreesofkb Executive Director, Impactful Storyteller, Compassionate Changemaker, & Natural Connector with Candy Founder & host of on The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners - @lisagareau_connectioncoach ... now on @candyeventconsulting Youtube channel! 👉🏼DM us for the link. ☺️

When my playlist delivers deep truth! #newyear #whatyougot #deephouse #deepthoughts #yougotthis

Looking to spend your New Years Eve reflecting on your the last year and being inspired toward a new - more connected - one? @thestacyhuston Stacy Huston, Impactful Storyteller, Compassionate Changemaker, and Natural Connector will give you lots to consider as she shares about her work with SixDegrees.Org with actor Kevin Bacon ... and unpacks her transformative CRAFT Method ... in the latest episode of The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners here! www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca/Podcast Stacy Huston is a visionary leader in social impact, known for her innovative, purpose-driven approach to philanthropy. I first learned of Stacy in her work as the Executive Director of @sixdegreesofkb , a nonprofit founded by actor and philanthropist Kevin Bacon that uses social networking to amplify the unsung heroes and causes in communities everywhere. With over eight years of experience in this role, she continues to lead the organization's mission to connect people to critical resources, sharing stories from changemakers, and leveraging the power of celebrity to make a positive impact. As an extension of this work Stacy co-created and is the Executive Producer of the #1 nonprofit podcast in the country, 'Six Degrees with Kevin Bacon', which features guests from different fields and backgrounds who are making a difference in the world, alongside the celebrities that champion them. In 2023 Stacy founded Entertain Change. As the CEO, Stacy spearheads impactful collaborations between entertainers and organizations, working with major entities like Peacock, Warner Bros, and the ACLU. Creator of the CRAFT Method™ she works with groups to build deeper and more meaningful engagement through a 5-step principled approach. This Fall Stacy crafted and delivered a talk at TEDxFargo – based on her CRAFT Method™ - called “A Hands-on Approach to Remodeling Society”. In our conversation today Stacy shares her thoughts on how we can prioritize human connection by choosing compassion over comfort, and remodel ourselves and our communities through simple, intentional actions that foster deeper connections.

My 2024 word of the year was EASE. 2024 wasn’t EASY … but as inspiring people and infinite possibilities came my way, I was reminded to “receive” and allow the year of EASE to unfold! To those of you that intersected with my story and inspired my journey this year, THANK YOU. I see you - giving everything that you are to your work, inspiring others by your leadership, and being an example of what connection and community really means. Your work, leadership, and example have – in turn – encouraged me to keep leaning into my work, leading in new ways, and setting an example of how events CAN become meaningful “connection points” where communities can gather and grow. I’m excited to see the broader shift toward care and connection in the events world. But building events with a “Connection First” foundation won’t happen by chance. We all have to work, lead, and show up every day ready to make a difference! My word for 2025 – SOAR – will be a reminder to ramp up in relationship with others, rise above the negative noise, and ready myself for the winds of change. I wish you ALL the best now and in the New Year! • • • • • PS. I have made my book “Event Planning from the Inside Out: Embrace Your Experiences & Enhance Your Planning” FREE to download whenever you're ready for some planning inspiration. Simply link through here to get your copy https://www.candyconsulting.ca/resources Enjoy! 💝 • • • • •

Posted @withregram • @theconnectionarchitect Savoured sweet moments in the mountains this week and now setting my sights on a blue sky of possibilities. #soarhigher2025 @lisagareau_connectioncoach #buildconnectionpoints #connectionfirstevents

I love it when my word of the year “arrives”! I’m ready to SOAR into - and through - 2025! #lettinggo #liftingoff

Just when I think I’m alone. ☃️ #solotraveller #creativejourney #snowyvisitor #fairmontbc

I feel I got to know author B. Jeffrey Madoff when reading his book "Creative Careers: Making a Living with Your Ideas”. It was one on my pile of library books I had gathered for an event planning course I’ve been developing for creatives. On the faculty at Parsons School for Design, Jeffrey taught a course he developed called “Creativity: Making a Living with Your Ideas”. I’m grateful he put many of the concepts and conversations from his course into his book so creatives like me – who don’t have the opportunity to participate in his course – can still learn from his journey as a creative. Jeffrey began his career as a fashion designer. He was chosen one of the top 10 designers in the U.S. then switched careers to film and video production as the Founder & CEO of Madoff Productions. Jeffrey edited and directed award winning commercials, documentaries and web content around the world for clients such as Ralph Lauren, Victoria's Secret, Tiffany, Radio City, The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Harvard University, and Weill Cornell Medical College. Jeffrey’s current creative expressions is as Playwright and Lead Producer of “Personality: The Lloyd Price Musical” celebrating one of the most resilient and influential entertainers of our time, Lloyd "Mr. Personality" Price. In our conversation today it’s interesting to hear how – instead of using the word “connection” Jeffrey uses the word “relationship” saying, “When you build a relationship, you’re building trust.” We both agreed it’s “trust” that opens the door to new conversations, projects, ideas, and spaces where we can be ourselves. DM me for the link to listen in to my conversation with B. Jeffrey Madoff, Relationship Builder, Resourceful Creative, and Natural Connector on The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners! >>> www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca/Podcast

Sooo… we got new neighbours. 👀#igoteyesonyou #whatchastaringat

I was in a rush to find mitts this morning and dug out these beauties just in time to shuttle my hubby to work and share the story attached to them! I received these mitts waaaaay back in the day when I had a job selling radio advertising to local businesses in the Edmonton area. I was a newly single mom, (extra!) motivated to make a living, and was given the gift of this new role. I had to make it work. I was ready to dive in, made a plan to promote a holiday deal to local businesses, printed some postcards, and parked myself at one end of Edmonton’s Whyte Ave to spend a few hours going door to door to make my sales calls. The day I choose was cold - “minus 30-something + windchill” cold - but I was determined to make it to the end of the long strip and make new connections that could help me grow my account list. I had been ducking in and out of the stores for some time until I arrived at a small store on a tucked away corner filled with cozy artisan winter wear and other fun local items. It didn’t take the shop owner long to realize how cold I was AND how important it was for me to keep sharing this sales package with the stores in the communtiy. What I remember is that she didn’t think twice before digging into the basket by the til to pull out this pair - I’m sure knitted with a love for their craft. She passed them to me saying, “all I ask is that if anyone mentions your mitts that you tell them about my store and give them one of my cards.” It didn’t take long for me to run out of her cards that day ... but I’m STILL telling the story. On this special day of giving I hung them at my coworking desk to remind me that kindness can be an everyday act. Giving is a mindset. Going the extra mile can be standing in place and giving the gift warmth and connection to a struggling stranger. Even as #givingtuesday comes to a close, don’t forget that it’s the every day - in every way - giving that matters. Let’s learn to see each other, share what we can, and trust that what we give is enough. It was for me. ❤️

It's almost time for Candy's SWEET 16 Virtual Disco Party this Friday! But first ... it's time to reflect ... and reintroduce myself! 👋 I am a life-long event planner - starting to "officially" plan events when I was 13 - and have been a Connection Strategy Coach through my biz for 16 years. This photo was taken just as I was launching @candyeventconsulting in 2008 from my then-home #winnipegmanitobacanada. This smile signified the end of playing small and the beginning of my life's work of serving and supporting anyone planning or promoting their own events for their business, organization, or group. 2020 brought me even deeper into my passion to help planners build events with a "Connection-First" foundation through a ground-breaking course and community called @theconnectionarchitect ... and the "What does connection mean to you?" conversations that started on my podcast in 2021 continue to inspire me - and #everydayeventplanners - in what is now Season 4 of The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners. 2024 brought a new joyful challenge to create an asynchronous course for @albertauarts geared for creatives - of all kinds - who want to apply their creative skills in the events world! #comingin2025 I believe we are all creative and that when we apply an "artisan" approach to event planning we will inevitably connect better with ourselves, our purpose, our environment, and those we wish to serve through the events we plan. It's with enormous gratitude that I invite you to join us to celebrate Candy's SWEET 16 on Dec 6 - this Friday from 4-5 PM MST!* The events - or "connection points" - you are creating for your teams, customers, clients, or community members matter. Your work as an event planner is the catalyst to build more connected communities. #buildconnectionpoints Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me, trusted the vision, participated in a workshop, contributed to a resource, AND to those of you who continue to connect others through events you plan. #grateful *DM me for the link and I'll look forward to celebrating the events your planning, connections made through those events, and SWEET 16 years of Candy! #moretocome

Are you planning or promoting events for your biz, org, or group? Looking for some Friday night inspo? 💫 Listen in to my conversation with Authenticity Coach and Be You Disco Founder Carolina Panoff on The Connector Next Door Podcast for Event Planners here! @beyoudisco @beyoudisco.teams @theconnectionarchitect 😌 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1812614/episodes/16189056 … or DM me for the link!

H_man Connection. U can fill in the blank! 😉 #noreally #youcan November was hopping with learning and connection opportunities including a budding appreciation for founder Pete Bombaci @petebombaci and his human connection movement called @genwellproject ! 👋 I spent time in #Vancouver for the 2nd Annual Human Connection Conference and participated in a snowy morning of talking to strangers when I was back in #Calgary as part of Genwell's launch of "Talk To A Stranger Week" - held at Good Earth Coffeehouse's @goodearthhq across Canada. 😃 The momentum is growing around Genwell's message that we can ALL play a part in addressing the issues of social isolation, disconnection, and loneliness through the power of human connection. 🥰 In September - on Season 4 of The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners @theconnectionarchitect - I had the great opportunity to record a conversation with Pete for you all. Listen in at the link below to hear what connection REALLY means to him, why he is so passionate about motivating others to join the movement, and what we can ALL do to build a more connected #Canada. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1812614/episodes/15725459 #buildconnectionpoints #connectionmatters #talktoastrangerweek

In the invitation to join in on #calgarytalks today at @calgarylibrary #calgarycentrallibrary , Calgary's Mayor @jyotigondek said, “There are so many incredible opportunities for Calgarians to experience arts, culture, and sport in our city. But what happens when an affordability crunch forces households to make tough decisions about spending priorities that limits their ability to access to those experiences? Do our social connections and sense of belonging suffer? How does our community continue to create, play and be entertained when the very people doing this work are also struggling?” Even though the questions can seem daunting, the discussion was thought provoking ... and hopeful. Much is happening to help ALL Calgarians access barrier-free experiences in the arts, sports, and culture but there is more work to do! Loved the opportunity to listen to and learn from panel which was moderated by Leslie Horton of Global News Morning and Global News at Noon. @leslie_horton_ @globalnews @globalcalgary Alex Sarian, President and CEO of Arts Commons encouraged us to ask, "Who’s not coming and why?" saying, "Connection doesn’t happen by chance". @alexsarian @yycarts Nicky Nash, Executive Director of Kids Up Front highlighted, "A ticket is a tool toward participation" asking, "How many sparks are we missing because we’re not including everyone?" and "We can achieve great things outside of our silos.” @kidsupfrontcalg Jay McNeil, President of the Calgary Stampeders shared how they are, "Meeting the community where they are at and asking how can they be part of the community” - without making assumptions! @jaymcneil50 @calstampeders As a Connection Strategy Coach, serving in-house and do-it-yourself event planners, it's important for me to understand my local landscape and then explore how I can make a global difference in crafting experiences that are more inclusive, diverse, equitable, and accessible so everyone - in every corner of our communities - can feel like they belong. I'm looking forward to more conversations and continuing the practical work of coaching planners to craft experiences where everyone can feel a sense of belonging. ❤️

Gotta start - again - somewhere. 😋 Thanks for making me feel welcome @hotshopyyc 🥰 #dayone #wellnessjourney #listeningtomybody #staygrounded #getgrowing #hotshopyogaandspin

What fun to join a growing community of "GenWellers" across this country who are stepping up to be part of the movement and solution to building a more connected Canada where everyone thrives! Monday was the kick-off to what @petebombaci, Founder of the @genwellproject calls Talk to a Stranger week which is happening across Canada until November 24. I participated in the conversations happening at at the Good Earth Coffee House - The Bridge and had so much fun meeting the Good Earth team, a few friendly strangers, and one familiar friend - @elijahlucian 🥰 Huge shoutout to national partner, Good Earth Coffeehouse @goodearthhq, for their support of Talk to a Stranger Week and for their belief in this Canadian Human Connection Movement and its connection to the work their stores, owners, and staff do each and every day. The goal of #talktoastrangerweek is inspire a nation to recognize that these little interactions each day can have a positive impact on the people around us and the world we live in. I've been Connection Strategy Coach for almost 16 years, and it's inspiring to see a national movement take shape that recognizes that little interactions like talking to strangers each day can have a positive impact on the people around us and the world we live in. Thanks to Pete for the work you are doing to create a more connected Canada. It's a joy to be involved! PS. Genwell exists "to address the issues of social isolation, disconnection and loneliness through the power of human connection". Are you curious to learn more about Genwell and their work? Visit www.Genwell.ca 😀

Posted @withregram • @candyeventconsulting 3 things that helped me make the most of my morning. 🧢 ☕ 💬 Choosing my @thesinners2saints hat to cover my #snoozebutton #bedhead, a random inspirational mug from the @cspace.mardaloop tenant’s kitchen (and a latte from @aromacafebaryyc) 😘 , and a kind comment from my coaching client after I apologized for the hat ... “If all you need is a hat to help you through the day, that’s pretty good.” 😋 In reality these 3 things represent three things that I love about my world and my work as a Connection Strategy Coach... 1. The inspiration I get from learning about local artisans (Love my hat that I got last year from this fun local brand ... you can find them at @marketcollective) 2. A creative and community-focused place to work (my co-working desk is in one of the most beautiful arts hubs in Calgary @cspace.projects) 3. My purpose-driven @candyeventconsulting clients who care just as much - maybe even more! - about people as they do the projects and events they are working so hard to plan. 🥰 #grateful #gatheringmyself #givingitmyall #lisagareau_connectioncoach 😊#eventcoaching #entrepreneurmindset #toolsofthetrade #takingamoment #gettingthroughtheday #womanpower

Hey, Canada! Talk To A Stranger Week starts today with @genwellproject @petebombaci @goodearthhq If you’re in one of the cities below, why not visit the Good Earth Coffeehouse locations listed and chat with a stranger for a free latte—on the amazing team at Good Earth! Better yet, drop by any Good Earth Coffeehouse in #Canada and thank the incredible staff for their support of GenWell’s Talk to a Stranger Week. Connection and coffee never tasted so good! #VICTORIA - Capital Park, 535 Superior St - Meet some of the incredible GenWell champions who will be talking to strangers! #CALGARY - The Bridge, 65 9 St NE - Join me here on Monday from 7-9am with the founder and CEO of Good Earth Coffeehouse, Nan Eskenazi and the staff of Good Earth HQ! #EDMONTON The Maclaren, 10147 124 St - Meet some of the incredible GenWell champions from the Culinary Federation who are avid stranger talkers! #TORONTO - Two locations! - 8 Wellesley St E (corner of Yonge & Wellesley) - 686 Bay St (Bay, south of Gerrard) Meet some of the great GenWell staff, champions and community that will be helping build the more connected Toronto and Canada! A heartfelt thank you to the entire Good Earth Coffeehouse team and the franchisees who have fully embraced this campaign, recognizing the powerful link between their business and fostering human connection. We’re excited to spark countless new connections this week and explore how this first collaboration can grow into many more as part of our Human Connection Movement. 🌟☕ Let’s all Talk To A Stranger. #humanconnection #happiness #health #longevity #connection #socialconnection #socialhealth #neighbours #community #sayhi #smile #goodforyou #goodforthem #inthistogether

Repost from @genwellproject 😀 “Building healthy connection habits and routines like talking to strangers has positive mental and physical health benefits. 🌟 Research shows that even brief interactions with others can boost our mood, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. It’s amazing how something as simple as a quick chat can make a difference in our day AND our health! So next time, don’t hesitate to smile and say hello😊 We want to take this opportunity to thank the ☕️🌍GOOD EARTH COFFEEHOUSE ☕️🌍 for being the Talk to a Stranger Week’s National Partner!” 🌐 https://loom.ly/IF5s7g0 @goodearthhq #GenWell #TTSW #TTSW2024 #Connected #BetterTogether #goodearthcoffeecompany #TalkToAStrangerWeek #TalkToAStranger #Wellness #HumanConnection #SmallMomentsBigImpact

I ❤️ Learning! #growyourself #getinspired

Before and after ... with another puzzle in the wings! Special to have time with Mom this week. 💗

#vancouverviews 🎨 #upmyalley 📸

😀 Heading in - @wavescoffee latte in hand - to The Canadian Human Connection Conference - hosted by @genwellproject and Founder @petebombaci - to learn all about the art and science of #connection - and to meet many natural connectors from across Canada! 🇨🇦 #herewego

Great time at the Halloween open mic at @aromacafebaryyc AROMA CAFÉ BAR. Still time to come hang out, satisfy your hunger for a burrito, and hear some great tunes hosted by my #hunkyhubby @timgareaumusic 👻

Here we go! 🙀 Halloween open mic with @timgareaumusic at @aromacafebaryyc AROMA CAFÉ BAR. Still time to come hang out, satisfy your hunger for a burrito, and hear some great tunes! 👻 #localmusic #mardaloopyyc #boo

Posted @withregram • @genwellproject Final Call for Tickets! 🎟️ Don’t miss out! This is your last chance to secure a spot at the 3rd Annual Canadian Human Connection Conference! Join us as we come together to explore the latest insights, strategies, and research on Social Connection and its powerful role in our health and well-being. This event is an opportunity to hear from inspiring speakers, engage in thoughtful sessions, and participate in hands-on workshops, all designed to explore the power of meaningful connections in our communities, workplaces, and daily lives. Together, we’ll dive into ways to create deeper bonds, share stories, and learn from one another in a supportive, uplifting environment. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of something truly special. Last chance to secure your spot and step into a community built on shared passion for human connection⬇️ 🗓️ November 4-6, 2024 📍 Vancouver, BC 🎟️ Link in Bio! #GenWell #CanadianHumanConnectionConference #LastCall #CHCC2024 #RegisterNow

Posted @withregram • @candyeventconsulting After being down for the count with covid, managing the messy middle of course creation, and riding the wave of a family wedding last week - I’m “back at the board”. 🤓 There are few places I feel totally immersed and inspired. Coaching individuals and teams to build better connections through the events they plan is one of them. 🥰 Are you planning and promoting events for your business, organization, or group? Check out how Candy Event Consulting : Making Your Team Stronger can help make you and your team stronger ... and more connected to your customers, clients, core team, or community members! 😁 www.CandyConsulting.ca • www.LisaGareau.ca • www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca

"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” 🧡 @authormelodybeattie

What a gift to partner with the great people at @weareforgood Are For Good to help#community #changemakers and #socialimpact leaders together to have meaningful conversations at #impactup centred around the theme of "PAUSE" in alignment with #worldmentalhealthday yesterday. All around the world changemakers enjoyed a full day virtual event hosted by @jonforgood and @beckyforgood 👏 Then 29 diverse cities around the world were the scene of deeper, local conversations where we discussed how to find the "power in the pause" and talk about our mental health - together. In our corner of the world - here in #Calgary - we gathered around snacks, stories, and squishy hearts. 🥰 Thanks to the beautiful Ila Edgar @bigc.hange for the homemade hearts, for sharing your journey to "spaciousness" in your life, and for the challenge you gave us to sit with the discomfort in our attempts to "pause". Some from our group were actively working in the non-profit sector and feeling the need to pause, others had taken much needed time away from what became toxic workplaces, still others have now found their way to practicing the pause even when it's uncomfortable. One of the most impactful aspects to the evening for me was a surprise guest who saw the poster for our meetup and choose to attend. He is someone who is currently living homeless, was recently incarcerated, and shared openly that during that "pause" for him he learned to mediate, breathe, and was inspired to continue his art. He wanted to sit in with our group as he has dreams of starting a non-profit to encourage others to embrace their artistic side. It was not lost on me that when we were discussing our inability to put down our phones to "pause" this kind man was living without one and without many of the "distractions" we love to hate. Even with the disparity of our worlds it was an opportunity to see one another as the humans we are. As I gathered up a goodie bag for him at the end he expressed his gratefulness for the welcome he received by the whole group, "It was nice to feel welcome". Thank you to all who chose to attend, share your experiences, and open your hearts to the humanity of others. ❤️

We’re officially live and are ready to kick off a day of connection, reflection, and wellness! 🥳 There’s still time to join us. Sign up to join the livestream at weareforgood.com/impactup (it’s free!). P.S. If you have already signed up but can’t find the link, search for “notifications@airmeetevents.com” in your email. Be sure to check your spam/junk folder, too! If you need help, please send us an email to hello@weareforgood.com. #ImapctUp #Pause #CommunityIsEverything #WorldMentalHealthDay

We Are For Good is getting ready to build an Impact Uprising - around the world - THIS Thursday ... in 2 more sleeps! Here’s the link to save one of the last seats for our #impactup in-person meetup* right here in Calgary! https://www.weareforgood.com/impactup-local-meetup *Seats are free but limited. Link through to save yours! Thank you to our meetup location partners Kids Up Front Calgary / The Kahanoff Centre for Charitable Activities 🥰 @kidsupfrontcalg @kahanoffcentre @candyeventconsulting @weareforgood @bigc.hange @lisagareau_connectioncoach @thenickynash

Just hangin with @wakefield_brewster at @gravitycalgary @inglewoodyyc #wellsortof 🤷🏼‍♀️

Are YOU a Social Impact Leader, Non-profit Team Member, Local #yyc Changemaker? 👏 We're excited to welcome you to ImpactUp - the quarterly gathering of the We Are For Good Community where caring community changemakers meet virtually by day to start convos and then continue discussions in local meetups around the world. One day. One theme. One bigger convo ... and an even bigger impact! 🎉 On October 10 we are aligning with World #MentalHealthDay, for #ImpactUp: PAUSE. It's time to build cultures of wellbeing from the inside-out and we want YOU to PAUSE with us. 🧡 The We Are For Good Community headed up by @jonforgood + @beckyforgood started the Impact Uprising movement which is a world-wide virtual event. It's followed up by local in-person discussions - including an in-person gathering here in Calgary on October 10 from 6-8 PM at The Kahanoff Centre thanks to our generous meetup venue host Kids Up Front Calgary. Special gratitude to Ila Edgar who will join us to share her story of learning to "Pause" in her own work and life. Together we’re getting ready to build an Impact Uprising. DM me for the link to learn more about the movement and/or the link to register for our free, in-person, intimate meetup of Calgary (CAL) #chanagemakers 😊 Hope to have you with us! @kahanoffcentre @kidsupfrontcalg @lisagareau_connectioncoach @candyeventconsulting @bigc.hange

Fun #throwbackthursday to last week when I took the scenic route to the URSA Retreat Centre north of Cochrane, Alberta to facilitate a full day event strategy session with the URSA (Universal Rehabilitation Service Agency) team. @ursa_rehab As I prepared to take the team through Candy’s "10 Steps to Clarity" Strategy Session, I learned the complex structure of their team, their focus on making a significant positive impact on the individuals they serve, and the role events play in their ability “to develop and provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to attain a personal level of achievement and excellence in life”! On the day we dove into the core purpose of each event they plan, discussed team roles and responsibilities, and developed their 12-month Connection Strategy Calendar - plotting core events and event planning activities. I left feeling inspired and like I was part of the team thanks to their warmth, ability to have a laugh despite planning challenges, and their passion to see the work continue as they “believe that all individuals are active participants in the community, in their individual family and in their own life.” I left inspired - but I also with a new car-ride co-pilot “URSA minor” - an adorable, pink, fuzzy friend to remind me that my work as a Connection Strategy Coach matters and that - together - we can create a more kind, creative, confident, and connected world. The sky’s the limit for this team at Universal Rehabilitation Service Agency, URSA. Thank you again for for your trust and time! URSA Retreat Centre https://ursa-rehab.com/https-www-ursaretreatcentre-com/ URSA Fast Facts! https://ursa-rehab.com/fast-facts/ Learn more about URSA https://ursa-rehab.com/about/about/ Candy's 10 Steps to Clarity is a session tailored for anyone - or any team - planning or promoting their own events. Learn more at www.CandyConsulting.ca/Confidence • @candyeventconsulting Candy Event Consulting : Making Your Team Stronger

Just this week I’ve had multiple conversations with everyday event planners who have shared some very raw and real challenges they are facing in their lives and work. 😔 I’ve been wearing this beautiful #yeglocalartist wrist wrap I got as a gift from my friend @teresa_harder 🥰 and - as these conversations were happening - the word “humanity” was shining up at me. 👀 The word is a reminder for me … and could be for you too. ☺️ You’re only human. So are your planning teammates. So are your event volunteers, vendors, sponsors, partners, donors, members, customers, and clients. When faced with a raw, real “human” challenges we must engage with a human response. As I say, “events can become meaningful connection points” where we can truly see and support the humanity in each other. But this doesn’t happen by chance. It takes putting humans at the heart of our planning activities. (Long before the event date!) It takes a conversation the middle of the planning muddle. (Yes, there is no “good time”!) We must take a beat in the busyness to check in with ourselves and others. (… and not just at the event debrief!) You may not see results right away - or riding on the surface in your event ROI report - but when you focus on “humanity”, your events can turn into “connection points” over time. Are you facing some raw, real human challenges as you plan and promote your own events? I’m ready to be with you on your event planning journey. You might be planning your own events, but you don’t have to journey alone. 🧡 www.CandyConsulting.ca/Clarity

When #themountainsarecalling but you still have #workworkwork ☺️ #hellokananaskis #kcountryalberta #escapetothemountains

Happy Daughter’s Day to #mygirls - my belly laugh buddies, road trip DJs, and happy huggers. Couldn’t imagine life without you @sharayaah & @journee_live 🥰

Just in case you need another reason to visit @cspace.mardaloop - aka. our sweet @candyeventconsulting coworking biz home - here you go! The #cspaceexhibit on 3rd level is stunning! 😍 #cspaceyyc #creativehub #coworkingspace #photography #yycexhibit

Fantastic day one of @podsummit 2024 ... Thanks to Tim Truax bringing this learning and connection opportunity to life! 👏 #canadianpodcast @theconnectionarchitect #theconnectornextdoor

In 2006 I fled a difficult relationship- taking my two then-young girls on an 18-hour road trip from Edmonton to Winnipeg to with the hopes I could reset what happiness, health, and “home” could mean for us. Shortly after we arrived, I noticed a silver ring at Winnipeg’s The Forks Market that seemed to speak to me. The reason the ring caught my eye was that the four bands on the surface of the ring looked like it had been blown apart – like the parts of my life! When I turned the ring over, the back was solid silver. It was a reminder that I could choose to center myself – even when everything felt out of control. And I wore it every day since I purchased it 18 years ago. In the last couple of months, the ring got bent out of shape somehow and became too small to wear comfortably anymore. This summer I choose to (finally!) return to Winnipeg for a long overdue visit and set an intention to find another ring to replace the one that held so many difficult memories and such deep significance. In the middle of reconnecting with my sister and dear friends in Winnipeg, I spent an afternoon at The Forks again. After browsing in every shop, I stumbled on a ring (in photo 9) that spoke to me in a NEW way. If you look closely, the silver is braided into a beautiful weave that surrounds my finger … and looks just as beautiful no matter how it spins! The last couple of years I have been honouring my artisan heart – shifting my focus to making small, incremental, creative movements – bringing individual elements together to create a LIFE I LOVE. I told the story of my new ring to a dear high school friend saying I felt like it was time to let my old ring go. She encouraged me to bury it on the east side of a poplar tree* and the opportunity to presented itself when I returned home to Alberta. I was a bit conflicted to leave it behind but know I’ve opened the door to a new experience of life! Is there anything you are holding on to that doesn’t serve you anymore? There might be a beautiful opportunity right around the corner to let it go! *The East side of a poplar tree represents new beginnings, fresh perspective, and the dwelling space of Spirit.

My man. 😍 Joe Cool. 😎 Honey Bee. 🐝Birthday Boy. 🥳 20 photos don’t tell the whole story of who this man is to me, to his kids, to his grandkids, to my girls, to his mom, to his family, to his friends, to fellow musicians. I’m so glad I get to be part of your story my love … and living this adventure of life with you. ❤️ Happy Birthday my love - @timgareaumusic ❤️ #moretocome #birthdayboy #thisis61 #lovinglife

So sad to see Eau Claire Market boarded up today. 😢 So many good memories here over the years. #rememberingeauclairemarket #eauclairemarket #downtowncalgary

The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners is your invitation to meet natural connectors from around the world. As a Connection Strategy Coach for almost 16 years, I know planning events with a "connection-first" foundation can make all the difference when trying to bring your customers, clients, core teams, or community members together! Are you ready to #buildconnectionpoints through the events you're planning? Listen in and learn from those who have built their lives and work on their ability to masterfully connect the people, projects, and ideas together! Season 4 of The Connector Next Door started this week and you can subscribe where ever you get your podcasts ... ... DM me for a direct link OR 😁 ... link through to www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca/Podcasts ... to listen in! 💖

👉🏼👉🏼 Posted @withregram • @podsummit PodSummit YYC 2024 | September 20th-21st 💥 The catalyst for the next era in Canadian podcasting is here, join us at PodSummit and be a part of a community that is going to shape the future of podcasting in Canada.💥 PodSummit returns to Calgary September 20th - 21st, 2024 at The Grand with PodSummit YYC 2024! Join Chris Van Vliet, Jeremie Saunders, and talent from Acast, CBC Podcasts, Canadaland, Sonar, JAR Audio, and many more for the biggest 2-days in Canadian Podcasting! Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, PodSummit YYC 2024 is the place to connect with fellow creators, learn from industry leaders, and immerse yourself in a Canadian podcasting experience like no other. With panels, speaker sessions, live podcasts, and more, we’ve got something for everyone! PodSummit YYC 2024 is supported by major sponsors Acast, Shure, and Amazon Music Canada. Discover more about what to expect at PodSummit YYC 2024 by visiting www.podsummit.com. Register NOW and save 15% by entering the promo code: PODSUMMIT15 🎙️ PodSummit YYC 2024 🎟️ Tickets On Sale NOW 🗓️ September 20-21, 2024 📍Calgary, Canada

Posted @withregram • @theconnectionarchitect @petebombaci Pete Bombaci – and his team at @genwellproject GenWell, Canada’s Human Connection Movement – are encouraging all Canadians not to wait to make those large, life-changing connections that we often dream about. BUT if we look for and lean into the little, everyday connections - like making eye contact, shaking a hand, or saying hello to a stranger - we’ll be 100% happier than if the connection never happened!* • • • • • Welcome my very first conversation of Season 4 with Pete - an inspiring Social Change Leader, Connection Visionary, and Natural Connector You can find Episode 1 of The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners here - https://www.buzzsprout.com/1812614/15725459 - or wherever you get your podcasts! • • • • • Pete Bombaci is a visionary business and social change leader who believes that by doing the right thing every day, exceptional results are created. In 2016, Pete launched The GenWell Project, Canada’s Human Connection Movement, which has recently become more relevant than ever. The mission of The GenWell Project is to make the world a happier and healthier place by educating, empowering, and catalyzing people around the importance of proactive face-to-face social connection as an action we can all take for our health, happiness, longevity, and the betterment of society. In our conversation today Pete shares how critical it is as planners – especially in our pressure-cooker work world – to create connections with people who can support us through the ups and downs that we experience. By intentionally adding “frequency, time, and shared experiences” to our connection efforts we can enjoy the benefits of living in a more connected world! • • • • • *It’s true – listen in to learn why! • • • • • The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners is hosted by @lisagareau_connectioncoach as an extension of @theconnectionarchitect Program and is produced by @candyeventconsulting : Making Your Team Stronger / www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca/Podcast

Summer’s still shining! 🌝

Posted @withregram • @candyeventconsulting In August I had my first real visit back to my “heart-home” #Winnipeg #Manitoba in about a decade. When looking for parking to meet a new friend, I had the happy surprise of finding a space near my first “office” for my new-at-the-time biz – Candy Consulting. The space was on the second floor of this beautiful building in Winnipeg’s historic #exchangewinnipeg Exchange District. Thanks to dear friend, graphic designer, and creative collaborator @segunolude ‘Segun Olude for believing in me, building an enduring brand for my dream, and making this space available as I started out in 2008! - @lisagareau_connectioncoach 🥰 #throwbackthursday #timeflys #timewithgoodfriends #smallbusiness #returninghometomyself #dreamshappen

#mygirl turned 28 this week! 🥳 Sharayah, you've grown into such a strong woman 💪 with a beautiful, soft heart. ❤️ I'm so proud to be your mom! Happy Birthday with my love @sharayaah ! 🎉

I see “holidays” as “transitions” from one sweet space to another. Here are a few I’ll treasure: 1. Taking a deep breath by the beaches on Waskesiu Lake in preparation for rare time with Tim’s 3 kids and 3 grandkids. 2. Savouring sweet time with my hubby on his favourite beach, doing his favourite activity – playing guitar. 3. Loving the memories made in our time together with the whole crew! 4. Admiring this guy – his love for family, nature, and new experiences. 5. Catching the unmatchable beauty of Waskesiu Lake at sunset. 6. Waking up on Hecla Island with coffee – and the calling gulls! 7. Embracing the energy of a powered tent site to keep my devices charged and my smoothie blender buzzing! 8. Excited to meet other entrepreneurs heading to work at the beach - see the briefcase carrying pedestrians?! Lol! 9. A kayak around the Gull Harbour Marina on Hecla Island landed me at this cool lighthouse. 10. Finding love in lonely places on rocky shores. 11. Sharing a camping site with my sister Bev at Lake Winnipeg and soaking in the sights at Gimli Sea Wall Gallery. 12. Embracing my inner water baby with chill n’ paddle time on Lake Winnipeg. 💦 13. Have toys – will travel! 14. Sadly saying goodbye to looong, lovely evening hours on the beach. 🐚 15. Wondering where the “Wild Things Are”? I found this fun mural on Furby St. Winnipeg. 16. Getting inspired – and getting things done – at The Forks near Winnipeg’s downtown. 17. Finding a new ring to replace one that reminded me of tougher times. This one speaks of smaller, intentional, acts that are carefully woven into a creative expression of life. (More on this to come!) 18. Reminiscing about my first “office” desk for my new-at-the-time biz – Candy Event Consulting – was on the second floor of this beautiful building in the Historic Exchange District of Winnipeg. (Thanks to dear friend and collaborator Segun Olude for believing in me and making this space available for me as I started out!) 👩🏼‍💻 19. Embracing the idea of ritual thanks to a coffee with my heart centred high-school friend Kelley. 💫 20. Learning to stop and savour the sites – including incredible fields of Manitoba sunflowers.🌻

#throwbackthursday to *yesterday* and a windy but gorgeous day in #gimlimanitoba on the sweet shores of #lakewinnipeg 🌬️🌊☀️ Can’t wait to share highlights from my - happy, hair-raising, healing time away! ☺️ #traveltime #takingabreak #naturalhigh #toogoodnottoshare

When a book speaks to me … or should I say … my gut! #decisiveintuition #gutfeeling #followyourgutinstinct #businessbooks #beachreader #businessdonedifferent

💦 #throwbackthursday #weekendvibes #therealwork #heartwork #breathwork #mindwork #entrepreneurialjourney 💦

Some days all the kid in me needs is a #sourdoughbread #peanutbuttersandwich and a #powernap 🥱 #entrepreneurlife

Quick visit to this special place today to set up a fun little summer #podcast project. If you’re in #yyc be sure to add the beautiful, accessible #calgarycentrallibrary @calgarylibrary to your #havetovisit list! 😍

“The flowers that bloom tomorrow are the seeds you planted today.” 🥰

You can take the girl out of the country ... oh, wait, I've never lived in the country. 😂 #citygirl #letspretend #agirlcandream #eggsanyone #calgarystampede #throwbackthursday

Something’s come between me and my work today. 🥰 @lovesonnet_thespaniel

Heather Reid, owner of @planner_protect_inc asked on #linkedin today … “ #Eventprofs - when you are in the heat of things and your emotions are swirling - do you have something that you can touch or look at that grounds you and reminds you that ‘all will be well’? ” I was thinking about this the other day as I’m smack in the middle of a BIG dream project here … and feeling all the emotions. The charms on my bracelet have become tangible reminders to reconnect with what really matters - the top row are from my girls and my hubby and represent family. The bottom row of charms I have purchased for myself when I have realized a BIG dream in my biz! So, tell me, “what do you touch or look at that grounds you and reminds you that ‘all will be well’?” #allwillbewell #dreambigger #remeberthewins #wellness

When you find an opportunity to learn “strategies for marketing the performing arts” among the knitting and quilting books on the free book rack at @cspace.mardaloop 😁 #marketingevents #alwaysbelearning #creativeeventplanners #artsevents #connectionstrategycoach

Celebrate the beginning of SUMMER (and Maya's Birthday today!) with the last conversation of Season 3 of "The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners" with compelling, creative, connection-focused couple Maya Corona and David ⚡ Schmeikal! @mayacoronaart @davidschmeikal @thebearandunicorn You can find the link in my bio or listen in here ... https://www.buzzsprout.com/1812614/15291674 "Maya and David are a dynamic husband-and-wife duo, blending backgrounds in graphic design, painting, branding, and coaching to help humans create and be creative. Maya, with over two decades in graphic design, now explores the depths of her self-expression and joy through painting and creative initiatives focused on connecting communities together. David has worked as an entrepreneur and creative professional for 15 years and now guides others to unleash “who they truly are” into the world. He does this through improving the pragmatic performance side of process so professionals can unleash their creative potential. To many event planners creativity can feel messy. And adding that element of creativity into our planning work can feel even more out of place. But if we want to see change in ourselves, our world, or our work, we cannot avoid the mess. In my conversation with Maya and David, we explored how we must build up our tolerance for the creative process even as planners. When we learn to sit with the uncomfortable inability to structure, schedule, or add the creativity to a spreadsheet, we will gain access to the peace and possibilities only accessible by going through the – as David says – “chaos of creativity’’. Listen in and be inspired to lean into who you truly are, what matters to you in your planning, and get ready to surround yourself with those that do the same!" The Connector Next Door Podcast for Planners is produced by @candyeventconsulting : Making Your Team Stronger as part of Candy's "Connection First" Course & Community - @theconnectionarchitect Program! >>> www.TheConnectionArchitect.ca

What an incredible experience to “crash” the #DisruptHRYYC party on Tuesday evening! @cphralberta @disrupthryyc It was a sell-out event that welcomed 300 HR Professionals who were ready to cheer on ideas that could disrupt the way “it’s always been done” in HR!   13 speakers took the stage to present 20 slides with only 5 minutes to present their disruptive idea! The energy of the 300 attendees was explosive as they clapped their way through the night thanks to the 300 “clappers” provided by the CPHR event organizing committee. Ok … I was giving my little yellow clapper a workout too as each speaker gave me something to really think about. 👏   I’m already looking forward to next year’s DisruptHR YYC! Watch the CPHR website for updates. https://www.cphrab.ca/ 😀 Loved seeing friends … @nmariebourgeois2018 Nicole Bourgeois, RPR & Lynda Bergeron - @susanthepeoplewhisperer Susan McGuire, PCC - #disrupthryyc speaker @jillianeyawney Jilliane Yawney … new friend, roaming photographer Brittny co-owner of @cosmophotobooths Cosmo Photo Booths 👋🏼 (she took these cool shots with the CPHR logo) 📸

Had fun supporting my #hunkyhubby @timgareaumusic today as he played two sets the Water Valley Celtic Festival! 👏#chillycheerleader #localmusic #albertamusicians #festivalvibes

I’m loving the opportunity to attend, present, support, and celebrate with the Recovery on Campus (ROC) Alberta team at the Healthy Campus Alberta Wellness Summit on the UofA campus this week! 🥰 @rocalberta @ucalgary_wedorecover @lisagareau_connectioncoach @candyeventconsulting ROC Alberta is on a mission to co-create, champion, and sustain recovery programs that support and celebrate multiple recovery pathways for all campus members in Alberta and beyond. 👏 Reach out to ROC Program Coordinator Chelsie Graham @thematurescholar to learn more about this important - exciting - initiative - or visit www.RecoveryOnCampusAlberta.ca

DYK? The Healthy Campus Albeta (HCA) Wellness Summit serves as an annual gathering for the HCA Community of Practice, providing an opportunity to come together, learn, share, and celebrate efforts across the province to strengthen post-secondary mental health and wellness. This year’s theme: Introspection: Looking Back to Look Forward I’m loving the opportunity to attend, present, support, and celebrate with the Recovery on Campus (ROC) Alberta team! 🥰 @rocalberta @ucalgary_wedorecover ROC Alberta is on a mission to co-create, champion, and sustain recovery programs that support and celebrate multiple recovery pathways for all campus members in Alberta and beyond. 👏 Reach out to ROC Program Coordinator Chelsie Graham @thematurescholar (second from the left in the photo) to learn more about this important - exciting - initiative - or visit www.RecoveryOnCampusAlberta.ca

#queenforaday Drove into Edmonton today for a summit, randomly stopped near Khrome Nail Bar and Academy, and was so happy to settle in on this beautiful throne to get my toes “sandal ready”. 👡 Thanks @khromenailbarandacademy for making me feel like a queen for a day! 👑 #readysetgo

How fun to join my energized event-planning, event-producing, event-supporting, event-loving friends* … and 100's of friends of The Calgary Stampede ... last week to enjoy the highly anticipated opening of the expanded #BMOCentre at Stampede Park. #bmocentreyyc The President’s Event and grand opening (organized in part by the amazing community of planners at @sparkeventcol Spark Event Management & Collective!) was an incredible evening of celebration as the team opened the doors to Western Canada's largest convention centre! To those in our Candy* Circle across Canada and around the world, If you’re looking at Calgary, Alberta, Canada for your next experience - conference, meeting - we ALL invite you to experience a “Greater Way to Gather”! @candyeventconsulting • • • • • Photo 1: David Woodward, Executive Director, Meetings and Conventions at Calgary Tourism (This project was a personal and professional milestone for him and his team! HUGE congrats David and team!) @tourismcalgary @meetingscalgary @woodyda Photo 2: Lisa Christensen, Art Historical Research, Writing, and Curatorial Services (Lisa curated ALL the amazing art on the walls of this incredible building! Oh, and Lisa and her husband Dave have been friends of my hubby @timgareaumusic since they were kids and I've been "Folk Festing" with them since I met Tim 12 years ago! So, yeah, we're Calgary Folk Music Festival tarpies, lol!) Photo 3: Amanda Stephenson, Event Planning Entrepreneur, Founder, @lilyandlarch Lily and Larch Events and Experience Manager at Benevity (Amanda is an event planning powerhouse and is a long time friend of Candy Event Consulting. Great to see you Amanda!) Photo 4: …and many friends from Association of Administrative Professionals - Calgary Branch. @yycaap (Great to see these hashtag#nextlevel hashtag#adminpros Jimmy-Lee, Teresa, Jaclyn, Shayan, and Tammie!) BTW Photo Credit for #4 @cosmophotobooths 📸 www.cosmophotobooths.com

#floatingflowers #sunnydays

Sunny visit in Abby with my big sister Debi and Mom this weekend! 🥰

Candy coloured morning 💜

Purple called. I answered. 🌈☀️💜☺️

Happy Monday to the weekend event planners out there! 😉 #whathurtstoday #hurtsmorethanitusedto #not20somethinganymore #eventplannersknow #20000stepsclub 👏 👉 Follow IG @instachaaz for more fun! @instachaaz Posted @withregram • @instachaaz Got a whole new respect for Maurice Sendak’s work. All the cross-hatching takes SO MUCH TIME.

I just wrapped up with a cohort of 8 everyday event planners who joined in on my “Building Better Connections with Events” Workshop this weekend! It was an online, fun, 14-hour, fast-track of @theconnectionarchitect program thanks to a fun collab with @albertauarts #auartsconed and @candyeventconsulting 😀 Special thank you to this amazing group of planners and to Heidi Brandley, Manager, Entrepreneurship & Innovation for all your support on making this learning possible for everyday event planners! #tcapconnectors #candyeventworkshop #auarts #lisagareau_connectioncoach #buildconnectionpoints