Exceptional Connections June In-Person Networking Luncheon

Exciting News! Exceptional Connections Networking Luncheon are now being hosted at Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, our new Lynnwood location in the lovely Gaucho Banquet Room! We’re thrilled to gather in this beautiful and elevated venue and we have a full, engaging schedule planned. Seating is limited to 32 guests and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Event Flow & Timing:

• Please arrive promptly at 11:30 AM for check-in, networking, and for time to visit the Marketplace Vendors and to enjoy the delicious gluten free Marketplace Table.

• We ask that your Market Table Buffet visit be completed by 11:55 AM, prior to the start of our meeting that starts promptly at 12:00 PM.

• Our formal program runs from 12:00PM - 2:00 PM, with post-event networking available until 2:30 PM.

We look forward to connecting, celebrating, and creating meaningful conversations together in this exciting new space!

Be a Hero and invite your networking friends who you would like to introduce to The ECN Way and our Exceptional Connections Community.

Laurie Thibert is a business leader, relationship specialist, and founder of Aligned Insights Matter™, where she helps organizations develop high-trust, high-performing teams. Her leadership philosophy was shaped not only in boardrooms but also in 2008 while leading a volunteer trip to Ghana, where she met a young boy whose parents had died. Soon, she began the journey of becoming his mom. Their journey together strengthened her belief that high-quality relationships are built when the relational fabric is strengthened.

Laurie’s expertise has been distilled into a bestselling book called The CATR Theory™: The 4 Legs of Successful Personal and Professional Relationships. It’s NOT Rocket Science! (CATR: pronounced “cater”), where she offers a groundbreaking framework that is clear, human-centered, and transformative in understanding what truly makes both relationships at work and at home thrive—and how to repair them when cracks begin to form.

In Laurie’s 20-minute talk she will share: "It's Not Rocket Science: The 4 Leg Recipe for Professional Relationships to Thrive."  Bonus: It works at home too! 

The CATR flagship talk introduces a groundbreaking framework with engaging metaphors to change the way you view relationships. CATR offers a clear, human-centered framework for understanding what truly makes relationships thrive—and how to repair them when cracks begin to form to create great-lasting connections. Because relationships don't have to be as hard as we make them, when we understand the recipe. 

It's truly NOT rocket science! The CATR framework opens the door to transformative connections at work and at home when used consistently. (CATR is pronounced 'cater') 

Takeaways from this talk:

• Understanding the cost of being unkind

• Relational Intelligence (RQ): what is it and why it matters

• Communicate more clearly by trusting what you already know
• The CATR Theory – the 4 step recipe for healthy relationships: how to build them, diagnose cracks, and repair them.

To learn more, go to: alignedinsightsmatter.com or www.CATRYourRelationships.com

Contact Laurie at: [email protected]

* Join us in making exceptional connections®, building relationships that lead to new friendships, endless referrals, and powerful advocates!

* Meet, Mingle and Connect with like-minded Entrepreneurs in an elegant, Fun & Festive Environment

* Dynamic & Inspiring 20-minute Spotlight speakers

* Learn 6-Steps to Exceptional Connecting & Networking Nuggets at each event

* 90-second Marketplace Spotlight Vendor Opportunities to offer additional visibility

* 45-second Exceptional Connection® Spotlights given to 25-32 local businesses

*Champion Connectors offered visibility as needed to receive a 60-second Elevator Commercial that includes a slide to offer Champion Inside Scoop Announcements.

* Enjoy our fabulous and healthy Marketplace Table / 4-course Luncheon at our new Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse Lynnwood location.

* Free and plentiful parking

* Easy access off the I-5 Freeway

*Classic Connectors pay for their networking, lunch is included.

* As an added bonus you will experience "Networking with a Twist" during our Connection Exchange.

* Support Clothes For Kids - our Eastside Chapter Non-profit since 2015

* Win Giveaway Door Prizes!

Pay for Networking, a fabulous gluten-free Fogo de Chao Marketplacee Table 3-course meal is included along with iced tea, coffee or hot tea.

• Please arrive promptly at 11:30 AM for check-in, networking, and for time to explore the Marketplace Vendors and to check out the delicious gluten free Marketplace Table.

• We ask that your Market Table Buffet visit be completed by 11:55 AM, prior to the start of our meeting that starts promptly at 12:00 PM.

Eventbrite fee will be added to each ticket:

$50 - ECN Way experience rate for 1st time attendees

$55 – Classic Connector "Early Bird" rate ends Thursday, 5/31

$65 – Classic Connector “It’s Not Too Late” rate available until Sold Out!

$40 - Champion Connector "Early Bird" rate ends Thursday, 5/31, use Promo code

$50 - Champion Connector "It's Not Too Late" rate, use Promo code

$ 70 - At The Door rate

Name tags will be prepared for attendees who register by the Monday before our 2nd Tuesday event at 9:00pm.

* Networking registration includes a fabulous gluten-free Fogo de Chao Marketplace Table 4-course meal: included along with iced tea, coffee, hot tea or fountain drinks. Eventbrite fee will also be added at checkout.

$100 - Marketplace Spotlight Vendor - Register to reserve your seat Vendor fee includes a fabulous gluten-free Fogo de Chao Marketplacee Table 4-course meal is included along with ice tea, coffee, hot tea or fountain drinks plus, Spotlight Vendor Opportunity.

We also offer an exceptional opportunity to highlight your product, or service and receive added visibility at our monthly events as a **Marketplace Spotlight Vendor

**Marketplace Spotlight Vendors will be offered a 90-second Spotlight commercial opportunity, plus the chance to share 1 screen shot to promote your business products and services.

We still have Marketplace Spotlight vendor openings for our April, May & June Networking events.

Email [email protected] if you have any questions about this powerful opportunity.

DISCLAIMER: Our LIVE Events are typically Sold Out. Please know that only pre-paid registrations are guaranteed a seat at our events.

Our dynamic events sell out each month and attract 25-34 Exceptional Connectors!

Now at Our New Location: Fogo de Chão – Lynnwood

We are excited to announce that our Exceptional Connections Networking Luncheon will now be hosted at the beautiful Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse in Lynnwood!

📍 Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
18602 Alderwood Mall Pkwy, Suite 1110
Lynnwood, WA 98037

Please plan to arrive promptly at 11:30 AM for check-in, networking, and time to visit our Marketplace Vendors. This also allows you time to enjoy the incredible Fogo de Chão Market Table, featuring a fabulous and healthy extensive gluten-free salad bar.

To ensure a smooth and focused experience for all, we kindly ask that your Market Table Buffet visit be completed by 11:55 AM, as our meeting will begin promptly at 12:00 PM.

• Fresh mixed greens and gourmet salads
• Marinated vegetables
• Imported cheeses
• Cured meats
• Smoked salmon
• Gluten-free and lighter options

• Pão de Queijo (Brazilian Cheese Bread) – Warm, chewy, gluten-free cheese rolls (often a guest favorite)
• Feijoada – A traditional Brazilian black bean stew (often vegetarian-friendly at the Market Table)
• White Rice – A staple served to balance flavors
• Brazilian Black Beans – Savory and hearty
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting
• Polenta – Sometimes crispy or soft, depending on service
• Caramelized Bananas – A sweet-and-savory Brazilian classic
• Seasonal Vegetables – Prepared simply to complement the meal
• A sweet finish with Cookie & Brownie + Fruit Tray

• Water
• Fountain Beverages
• Coffee & Tea

We look forward to welcoming you to this beautiful new venue and sharing an inspiring afternoon of meaningful connection, conversation, and community.

✨ Come early, connect deeply, and savor the experience. ✨

At Exceptional Connections® we foster authentic and intentional relationships through our relationship-based networking approach. Since 2009, we've been bringing together positive, like-minded entrepreneurs and business professionals for fun and engaging online events. We provide a vibrant community experience that leads to new friendships, endless referrals, and powerful advocates, impacting our members' lives both professionally and personally. We believe that every interaction holds the potential to shape our futures and are dedicated to inspiring change and building trust through meaningful human connections.

In addition to attracting exceptional people and businesses each month; we teach networking skills using our 6 Steps to Exceptional Connecting Connection Circle, highlight a different nominated member with an Exceptional Insight presentation, each attendee is offered the visibility of a 45-second Spotlight commercial (we offer a unique opportunity to be seen, heard & witnessed by everyone in the room), we host a 20-minute Spotlight speaker and showcase the services and products of our Marketplace Spotlight vendors…

The following businesses will be showcasing their products & services. Check out their websites and reach out if you want to learn more before our upcoming event

Cyndi O'Neill-Dady - will share the benefits of using Mailbox Power as an incredible productivity tool to help leverage your time, save money and accelerate your relationships. Contact Cyndi to take a tour or this powerful keep in touch system. I help businesses Attract and Keep customers!

Go to: MailboxPower.com use Invitation Code: CONNECTIONS

Clothes For Kids Clothing Donation Request

Exceptional Connections has been honored to support Clothes For Kids as our Non-Profit organization since 2015. Clothes For Kid's Mission is to transform students lives one wardrobe at a time.

Cassie Morey - Clothes For Kids Executive Director has graciously agreed to bring CFK bins to receive clothing donations to our upcoming event.

This is a great opportunity to go through your drawers and closets, and bring clothing items for ages Pre-K to High School to our event.

We will also be accepting Free Will Cash donations for Clothes For Kids at our event. Thank you in advance for your support making a difference in the lives of students in our community.

Go to: http://www.ClothesForKids.org

Your Spotlight commercial, your smile and lets powerfully step into the 2nd quarter of the year meeting new friends, making exceptional connections, while also expanding your personal and business relationships in 2026, and beyond.

All Attendees will offer a 45-second Spotlight Commercial. At Exceptional Connections we believe it is important for everyone to Be Seen, Be Heard, Be Witnessed, Be Memorable. In short to Be Exceptional!

Consider above Clothes for Kids Clothing and Free Will Donation Requests.

How to prepare for our upcoming LIVE event:

- Be ready to offer your 45-second Spotlight Commercial. Share your name - your business category - Your ideal referral partner...end with your name - your quick connect statement

A Quick Connect Statement is: 5-10 words describing what you offer. ie. I'm Cyndi Dady, I help Businesses Attract & Keep Customers.

Here is an example: Hello! - My name is Cyndi ONeill-Dady, I'm a Relationship Marketing Strategist for the past 16 years, now offering Mailbox Power - My ideal referral partners are savvy business owners who know the power of thanking, acknowledging and appreciating their customers... - I'm Cyndi Dady, I help Businesses Attract & Keep Customers.

Name tags will be prepared for attendees who register by the Sunday before our 2nd Tuesday event at Noon.

By registering for Exceptional Connections events, you agree to have your email added to our e-invitation list. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Call or email Exceptional Connections® Founder / Chief Champion Connector Cyndi O'Neill-Dady 425-346-8895 or [email protected]

In order to minimize administrative costs, our policy is that we do not issue refunds.

Transfers are available to other attendees with notification by Noon the Monday before the event. Please contact Cyndi with the name, business and email address of your replacement, or with questions. Thank you!

If you are sick, please contact [email protected] ASAP, and we will provide a credit for the next networking event, if you contact Cyndi before Noon the Sunday before our 2nd Tuesday event.

2nd Tuesday - Day of Event notifications will NOT be credited or transferred due to our Fogo de Chao Event Order that holds us to the attendee count.

Thank you in advance for your understanding of our refund policy.

In the event of snow or severe weather conditions you will be notified via Eventbrite message by Cyndi Dady, or contacted by a member of our Contribution team that the event has been cancelled. This cancellation will also be posted on our Exceptional-Connections Facebook Page. All Networking and Vendor registrations will be credited towards the following Networking Luncheon. If you are not available to join us the following month on the 2nd Tuesday, you have 10 days from the cancelled event to notify Cyndi of the month you would like credited. Thank you for understanding as this allows time to offer your seat to another attendee on the waiting list, as our events regularly sell out.

To the full extent permitted by the law, the Participating Organization (Participant) shall indemnify and hold harmless Exceptional Connections®, its Contribution Team, agents and contractors from and against any and all liability suits, obligations, fines, damages, penalties, claims, costs, charges, and expenses.

By registering for Exceptional Connections events, you agree to have your email added to our VIP e-invitation list. You can unsubscribe at any time.

• Tuesday, April 14, 2026 - Featuring Spotlight Speaker Lynn Whitbeck
• Wednesday, April 22, 2026 – Conversation to Connect with Lynn Whitbeck
• Friday, April 24, 2026 - 2-hour Skill shop presented by Molly Klipp
• Tuesday, May 12, 2026 - Featuring Spotlight Speaker Brenda Reiss
• Wednesday, May 20, 2026 – Conversation to Connect with Brenda Reiss
• Tuesday, June 9, 2026 - Featuring Spotlight Speaker Laurie Thibert
• Wednesday, June 17, 2026 – Conversation to Connect with Laurie Thibert
• Stay tuned for Garden Party dates July - September 2026

WHO WE ARE:

• Exceptional Connections® provides a relationship based approach to networking that nurtures authentic and intentional connections since 2009.

• Connect monthly with positive, like-minded Entrepreneurs and Business Professionals in fun In-Person and Online Environments.

• We offer a community experience that creates new friendships, endless referrals, and powerful advocates which transforms lives, professionally and personally.

• We believe that every chance encounter has the potential to change the course of our lives.

• An innovative organization focused on meaningful human connections which encourages, educates and empowers its members to deepen relationships, inspire change and build trust.

In addition to attracting exceptional people and businesses each month; we teach networking skills using our 6-Steps to Exceptional Connecting Connection Process, an Exceptional Insight presentation is offered by a member of our community, each attendee is offered the visibility of a 45-second Spotlight commercial (we offer a unique opportunity to be seen and heard by everyone in the room), we host a dynamic 20-minute Spotlight speaker, and end the event with a Connection Exchange in addition to showcasing the services and products of our Marketplace Spotlight vendors.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Exceptional Connections® - Intentional & Innovative Networking to Boost your Business