Minglers
Because adulting doesn’t have to equate standing in the corner of an event, wondering whom to talk to and why you didn’t just stay home… Because adulting can mean admitting that “getting out there” isn’t always the most fun and that you’d love a way to find your people that was easy and enjoyable…
A Mingler is people interested in expanding their network and knowledge of interesting ways to explore the world gathering for a low-key, no-pressure experience that’s the opposite of the bar and networking scenes.
The one caveat? Everyone comes solo. No significant others, no friends, no security blankets. This levels the playing field so you don’t have to be nervous about not knowing anyone — no one knows anyone!
This is NOT a networking event. This is NOT a singles event. (People who are in relationships come too, they just can’t come with their mate.) This is a “unique experience with an interesting and diverse group of people who are all there for the same reason: to get to know friendly new people and learn about other cool ways to live life” event.
In other words, a Life of Yes℠ event.
The host is a master at event curation and facilitation — Saya makes everyone feel comfortable, flips back and forth between speaker and listener with ease, keeps things moving, knows when to jump in and politely facilitate away from Person A to Person B, and has a tool belt of goodness that allows extroverts and introverts to shine and enjoy themselves.
Maybe you simply have fun. Maybe you simply get out of the house. Maybe you simply try something new. Maybe you also meet a new friend, gain a client, learn of a job opening or a career couch referral or an online course or or or… Come for the fabulously curated, welcoming experience; everything else are cherries on top.
Upcoming’ness
On hiatus… To be alerted to new offerings, choose how you’d like to be kept in the know.
FAQs
What’s the goal of a Mingler?
Expand your network—professional, social, romantic, whatever!—by making new connections in a comfortable and unique way.
What happens at a Mingler?
People chatting, getting to know each other, sharing resources and ideas, engaging in connection-making activities, exchanging contact info, all with skilled, “Everyone feels comfy” guidance of the host.
Where do Minglers happen?
Virtually on Zoom and in person at comfy, welcoming venues. Location shared when registration opens.
When will I get more logistical details?
You’ll be sent a chock full of detail email the week of the Mingler to the email you used when you registered. If you don’t see it in your inbox by four days before the Mingler, check spam. Make sure you’re checking the email account you have tied to your Eventbrite. If not in your inbox or spam, reach out to Saya.
Are you in other places other than Mac & Cheese HQ (currently Winston-Salem, NC)?
In person, when people pay to have Mac & Cheese travel to them. But Mac & Cheese has a variety of virtual offerings so anyone anywhere can join, which you can see on the Calendar.
Is this a dinner party? Will there be snacks?
No, eat beforehand so you have energy! Drinks – alcoholic and non-alcoholic – are provided but it’s about meeting others and not so much about the grub. And, no, mac ‘n cheese is not actually served.
What do Minglers cost?
Shared when registration opens.
Is it BYOB?
Drinks are provided.
Who is the average Mingler guest?
There is no average Mingler guest and that’s what makes the gatherings fabulous!
Ages have ranged from 22 to 65. Most attendees live in the city but suburbanites also show up. All genders, sexualities, and marital status’. Variety of professions. Introverts. Extroverts.
Mac & cheese is an inclusive, “For everyone” space and that’s reflected in who shows up.
Is this a dating service?
No. Do people get dates out of it? Yes! (The host got a husband out of it!)
Is this an employment service?
No. Do people get jobs/clients out of it? Yes!
Can I come with someone?
No. One of the things that make Minglers unique is the fact that no one knows anyone else. This levels the playing field and puts people at ease: you don’t have to worry about coming by yourself because everybody will be there solo!
I’m part of a couple. Can I sign up?
Definitely! But to maintain the popular dynamic of no one knowing each other, you’ll have to leave your significant other at home.
When will I be invited to a Mingler? When’s the next Mingler?
Minglers are not on a regular schedule; they occur as the wind blows aka when the host has the time and energy . Everyone receives notification of an upcoming Mingler at the same time and then it’s first come, first served (caveat: if someone you know is already coming, you’ll have to wait). To ensure you hear about them, choose how you’d like to be kept in the know.
Can I come to more than one Mingler?
Yes! There have many repeat guests, some going on yearsssss.
When are the Minglers?
Sometimes Friday and Saturday afternoon and evenings, sometimes weekday evenings.
How long do Minglers last?
Around two and a half hours.
What do I bring?
A ready-to-meet-new-people and open mind vibe
Suggestions of other cool things to do/ways to meet people (optional)
Business cards, if you’d like
How many people will be at the Mingler?
It varies. But they tend to be more intimate than overwhelming, small group rather than large group.
What if I’m a shy person? Will I feel uncomfortable with a bunch of people I don’t know?
Remember, everyone’s in the same boat: nobody knows anybody at the start of a Mingler! That often elicits a freeing sensation that you can be whoever you want to be. And the host is great at ensuring everyone feels comfortable.
What should I wear?
This is not a suit/stiletto heels/buy a new outfit evening (unless you want to). Your host will most likely be in flip-flops/uggs and jeans/yoga pants. Dress for comfort.
Can you tell me specific things about the Mingler I’m attending [will I be the oldest? How many women? Men? What exactly will we be doing? Etc.]?
(said with love) No! Don’t stress about details. Just come to have a good time and trust that you won’t die and might even enjoy yourself. Minglers have been around since 2004. Something’s going right…
I registered but can no longer attend. Can someone else take my spot?
Yep! Log into Eventbrite and update the name and email with the new person, and if applicable, forward any communication you’ve gotten about the event. If they’re paying you for the spot, you’ll need to work out payment between you two.