Join us at Blakely Hall for a fun evening getting to know others from the community, speed dating style! Tickets to Speed Neighboring include two drinks, small bites and conversation starters — participants will rotate through a series of brief chats to connect with as many others as possible.
Advanced ticket purchase required. $10/person. 21+ only, please.
Here are answers to some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Who should attend?
Everyone (21 and over) should be there! We can’t find a downside to meeting a few neighbors – we’ll make it easy for all, whether you’re introverted or extroverted! At the very least, you’ll chat with fellow residents and leave knowing a little more about the community. At best, you’ll make a new friend (or five).
Don’t worry if you’re coming on your own – meeting new people is the whole point of this event!
What should I expect?
When you arrive at Blakely Hall, we’ll get you checked in and give you a nametag that will include some of the interests you indicated on your survey. We’ll also give you drink tickets, so you can head to the bar to choose a drink (we’ll have wine, beer and an assortment of non-alcoholic options). Your next stop may be the kitchen for some light bites.
Then, you’ll grab your seat for the speed neighboring portion of the evening, where you’ll have 2-5 minutes to chat with each of the other attendees. Don’t worry, we’ll take a few breaks to refresh your drinks and snacks and we’ll be there to help direct you to your next conversation.
At the end of the event, we’ll have some unstructured time to finish any conversations left hanging, and you’ll fill out a brief survey to let us know if you’d like us to share your contact information with other attendees.
What will we talk about?
We’ll provide plenty of conversation starter ideas for you. Alternatively, you can ignite a chat by asking about the interests listed on the person’s nametag. To make things a bit easier, your first seat will be with someone who shares a common interest with you.
Do I need to pre-register?
Yes! We need to know who is coming so we can set the room for the right number of people (and have enough refreshments). The ticket price is $10/person. If the cost to attend is a stretch for you, please reach out to lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org – financial assistance is available.
What should I wear?
Like most of our events, this event is “Seattle Casual,” meaning you can wear whatever makes you comfortable. Jeans are fine, as is a cocktail dress, leggings or a suit. Since this event is about getting to know new people, we encourage you to wear something that relates to your interests. For example: If you’re a Seahawks fan, sport your gear. Are you a Swiftie? Don your concert tee or friendship bracelets!
Do I have to live in Issaquah Highlands to attend?
Nope! While we expect most of the attendees to be Issaquah Highlands residents, neighbors from the greater community who want to connect are welcome. Please note, however, that we will not allow any sales pitches – if you plan to attend to spread the word about your business or gain customers, this isn’t the event for you (but we invite you to join our Networking Group)!
