netlogx realizes the importance of networking in building relationships that can lead to business opportunities.  Men have traditionally networked on golf courses while using their “tee time” to build relationships.  netlogx recently used a different sort of “tea time” by hosting an afternoon of tea and conversation with fellow business leaders to celebrate the arrival of Spring with a Duchess of Devonshire Tea.  This event met the goal of finding a creative way to start a dialogue and share experiences with other women in business.

The original tea party began as an “afternoon tea” by royal Britain’s Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. Anna started drinking tea and eating light refreshments when she became hungry in the afternoons, since it was typical to eat only breakfast and dinner at that time in Britain. She began inviting friends to join her and soon the afternoon tea tradition was born.

While being joined by old and new friends at netlogx, we enjoyed a selection of English teas, along with finger sandwiches, fresh-baked scones with  raspberry jam, and a wonderful selection of pastries, all made by Tina Jesson of Tina’s Traditional Old English Kitchen.  Tina’s motto is, “A taste of Britain on the plate.” This event was especially enjoyable given that netlogx owner, Audrey Taylor, is British born and shared her personal collection of tea cups that were gifts from her mother.  The Americans in attendance were entertained by stories from Audrey and Tina of afternoon tea and tea shops in the U.K.

While sipping a “nice cup of tea”, each woman shared their background and current business endeavors.  It was inspiring to hear their stories.  Despite the diversity of the group, I was struck by the fact that each woman has been quite successful in their chosen field but all were at a stage in life where they were moving on to other challenges.  Many expressed that it was finally time to do what they really wanted to do.  The event was such a success that netlogx plans to host similar tea parties in the future as a venue for fostering conversation and networking among other women in business.

Quote:  “A woman is like a tea bag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.”  — Eleanor Roosevelt