Fleet's 'Coffee & Connect' Business Group Celebrates 2nd Birthday

A local women’s business group recently celebrated its second birthday in style at the Lismoyne Hotel.

Since being established in 2008 by Fleet entrepreneur Mel Wardle, ‘Coffee and Connect’ has provided an indispensable outlet for hundreds of women in the area to realise their business ambitions. The celebration on May 5th saw the group’s biggest turnout yet, with 45 ladies gathering in the Lismoyne’s plush interior to talk business and enjoy a piece of cake.

 “What really differentiates us from other groups is just how friendly we are,” explains founder Mel. “If people are relaxed and friendly, business happens naturally. We have a good mix of people and businesses all in one place, and a lot gets done.”

 It’s a message that’s reiterated by other members of the group. Samantha Falconer is capturing the action today with a formidable looking camera, weaving dynamically among the crowd as she seeks out the best angles. She’s a regular at Coffee and Connect, and explains that her line in professional corporate photography came directly out of a brainstorming session at the group.

“Being part of the group helped me to expand my reputation in the area,” she says. “People come here from miles away to be photographed and to network.”

The networking sessions at the heart of Coffee and Connect are directly linked to another of Mel’s ventures.  For the last five years she has published a series of monthly magazines in a bid to stimulate local business, including the highly popular Fleet Directory.

These booklets offer a mix of advertisements for local businesses, and also showcase the work of local charities and groups. With a circulation of 4,000 around Fleet and Church Crookham, the Directory has become a regular staple for many residents.

“I spoke to one lady who had kept a copy of every single issue!” Mel reveals. “Its strength is that people read it and keep it,” she expands. “People respond really well to local business- it gives them a sense of loyalty and community.”

According to their publisher, the directories were principally set up to combat the lack of exposure received by local entrepreneurs.

“The aim is simple- to enable local businesses to promote themselves to local residents, especially small, hidden businesses, people without shopfronts,” she says.

Coffee and Connect takes place on the first Thursday of each month at the Lismoyne Hotel (excluding August). For more information about attending a future gathering or advertising in one of the magazines, contact Mel at mel@coffeeandconnect.co.uk.