The aim of the event is to make business connections whilst socialising in great surroundings in the centre of Manchester, a chance to unwind and meet fellow business people where friendships are made and follow ups are encouraged to help your business. No membership, and no hard sell, just polite introductions. With every ticket sold a Forever Manchester Tombola ticket is issued and this time it was a 3-night trip to Malta up for grabs.
In July we were treated to a meeting at the iconic Great John Street Hotel, a boutique hotel and part of the Eclectic Group in the centre of Manchester. As usual networkers enjoyed a well-earned Gin on arrival. The sun was out, so some of the guests went onto the terrace to cool down while the rest of us stayed in the library to get down to pure networking. On this occasion as always not everyone knew each other’s business, so introductions were made over a Gin and tonic and business relationships and business partnerships was discussed. Then in the middle of the two-hour event Paul Mirage – organiser and Co-Director/Founder of GM Business Connect and a Forever Manchester Ambassador – introduced Diane Williamson, General Manager of the Hotel. Diane spoke to guests about the history of the hotel being family owned, and then the purchase of King Street Town House which is also part of the Eclectic Group. She then described the takeover where the HUT Group made an offer the owners couldn’t refuse. They purchased both hotels, and have exciting plans to refurbish the hotel in the future.
The hotel caters for events up to 200, has a rooftop terrace ideal for BBQ’s and functions, meeting rooms and weddings. Diane picked the winners of the Business card draw where the Tea for Two donated by The V&A Marriott Hotel was won by Janine Mitchell of Change for Success. Next was the GM Biz bottle of Bordeaux – this was won by Stephen Sutherland of The Social Circle. Stephen then decided to share the wine with guests, which went down very well. Straight after we were offered platter after platter of delicious hot food consisting of mini fish and chips with pizza slices. Anthony the waiter and Luke from the hotel made us all feel very welcome and really looked after everyone. It was their time to showcase the venue and they an amazing job, a big thank you from us. The next First Friday Connectworking is 6 September 4-6pm at Peaky Blinders on Peter Street, we hope you will be able to join us for a few G&T’s. Tickets are only £15 – please book on Eventbrite and we will see you there – don’t forget your business cards! Plus, as always there is a chance to WIN for two people 3 nights in Vienna with Forever Manchester which is now 29 years old, and is the only charity that raises money to fund and support community activity across Greater Manchester.
