About this Event
Exceptional Connections Networking Luncheons are now being hosted at Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, our new Lynnwood location.
This month in honor of Exceptional Connections 17th Anniversary we have expanded to 2 beautiful Banquet Rooms! We’re thrilled to gather in this beautiful and elevated venue and we have a full, engaging schedule planned. Seating is limited to 60-75 guests and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Event Flow & Timing:
- Please arrive promptly at 11:30 a.m. Enter through the Rio Banquet Room to check in, find your seat, and begin networking.
Arriving on time will also allow you to visit our Gift Donations Table, purchase raffle tickets at your chosen Clothes For Kids impact level, and enjoy the delicious, gluten-free Marketplace Experience.
- We ask that your Marketplace Experience Buffet visit begin at 11:40am and be completed by 11:55 AM, prior to our meeting that starts promptly at 12:00 PM.
- Please note that our schedule has been extended by 30 minutes for this special event. The formal program will run from noon to 2:30 p.m., followed by optional post-event networking until 3:00 p.m.
Prepare Your Attendee Introduction
At Exceptional Connections, we believe everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.
At our 17th Anniversary Celebration, each attendee will briefly share:
“I’m [name], a [title] with [business], and [Quick Connect Statement].”
Your Quick Connect Statement is a memorable 5–10-word phrase that communicates whom you serve or the value you provide—and piques curiosity.
Example: “I’m Cyndi O’Neill-Dady, a Relationship Marketing Strategist with Mailbox Power. I help businesses get and keep customers.”
Please practice your introduction and keep it to approximately 8–10 seconds.
Need help creating your Quick Connect Statement? Contact to schedule a complimentary 15-minute QCS session.
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.
For this special Exceptional Connections 17th Anniversary event, we are planning to attract 50 - 65+ attendees at our new Fogo de Chao Brazillian Steakhouse venue in Lynnwood.
Carve out your seat for this first come, first serve event, and Save $ by grabbing the Early Bird rate by the last day of the month, unless already sold out
Take advantage of the opportunity to invite friends who you would like to introduce to The ECN Way and our Exceptional Connections Community.
Join us and Connect with Exceptional Colleagues
You are invited to join us on Tuesday, October 13th, for a very special Exceptional Connections Networking Luncheon as we celebrate our 17th Anniversary and our Annual Clothes For Kids Make an Impact Fundraising Event.
This milestone event will be an inspiring gathering that includes a dynamic panel discussion: The Connection Advantage: Where Artificial Intelligence Meets Relational Intelligence (RQ) moderated by Cyndi O’Neill-Dady, Founder and Chief Connector of Exceptional Connections and featuring: Molly Klipp, Laurie Thibert & Rachael Barclay.
As of August 11th, Exceptional Connections proudly marked 17 years fostering a thriving community where collaboration, support, and positive feedback are the cornerstones of our success. Our community has grown and flourished, and in November 2023, we launched the Champion program—ushering in a new chapter of connection and growth. We are just getting started, and we invite you to be a part of this journey.
Whether you're a long-time member or new to our community, this luncheon is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who value connection, mutual success, and the power of having each other’s backs.
Come celebrate with us, gain insights from our dynamic panelists and continue to build your network one relationship at a time.
Support our 17th Anniversary Celebration by becoming a Marketplace Swag Sponsor! Gain valuable exposure by including your business materials in swag bags distributed to 50-65+ entrepreneurs, with additional recognition during the event, post-networking emails, and on social media, plus enjoy a delicious 3-course Fogo de Chao Marketplace Experience Buffet. Page down for more information, and contact Victoria Johnston at: [email protected] to reserve this opportunity.
Join us and Connect with Exceptional Colleagues
We invite you to celebrate Exceptional Connections 17th Anniversary Celebration, in addition to a dynamic panel discussion: The Connection Advantage: Where Artificial Intelligence Meets Relational Intelligence (RQ) moderated by Cyndi O’Neill-Dady, Founder and Chief Connector of Exceptional Connections and featuring: Molly Klipp, Laurie Thibert & Rachael Barclay.
Artificial intelligence is transforming how entrepreneurs communicate, market, innovate, and grow—but technology alone cannot create trust, loyalty, or meaningful relationships. Our three exceptional panelists will explore how entrepreneurs can harness the power of AI while strengthening the distinctly human qualities that drive lasting success: empathy, creativity, authenticity, intuition, and relational intelligence.
What We’ll Explore
- Using AI to increase efficiency, productivity, creativity, and opportunity
- Allowing AI to handle more tasks so entrepreneurs have more time to be meaningfully human
- Preserving authenticity, empathy, trust, intuition, and the human spark
- Combining technological capability with relational intelligence for sustainable entrepreneurial success
- Ensuring AI strengthens rather than replaces the relationships at the heart of business
Come discover how to use the intelligence of technology while deepening the power of connection.
Let AI expand your capabilities—but let your humanity define your impact.
Meet Our Three Exceptional Panelists:
Molly Klipp — Founder, Beauty Business Mastery
For 32 years, Molly Klipp worked with thousands of women and developed some of the most successful leaders within Aloette Cosmetics. As President of Aloette of Seattle, she built a franchise that ranked among the company’s top 10 for more than 20 years.
In 2014, Molly became a certified permanent makeup artist and founded Carefree Beauty Permanent Makeup. After selling her cosmetics franchise in 2015, she used the business skills she had cultivated over three decades to grow her new venture into a six-figure business within one year.
Today, Molly is once again expanding her impact through Beauty Business Mastery, helping women beauty-business owners create practical blueprints for daily operations, increase profitability, and build successful businesses without unnecessary stress.
Learn more:www.beautybusinessmastery.comContact: [email protected]
Laurie Thibert — Founder, Aligned Insights Matter™
Laurie Thibert is a business leader and relationship specialist who helps organizations develop high-trust, high-performing teams. Her leadership philosophy was shaped not only in boardrooms, but also during a 2008 volunteer trip to Ghana, where she met a young boy whose parents had died. She soon began the journey of becoming his mother—an experience that deepened her belief in the life-changing power of strong relational foundations.
Laurie distilled her expertise into the bestselling book The CATR Theory™: The 4 Legs of Successful Personal and Professional Relationships. It’s NOT Rocket Science! CATR—pronounced “cater”—is her clear, human-centered framework for understanding what helps relationships thrive at work and at home, as well as how to repair them when cracks begin to form.
Learn more:alignedinsightsmatter.com or CATRYourRelationships.comContact: [email protected]
Rachael Barclay — Founder, The Savvy Digital Co.
Rachael Barclay helps founders and small-business owners get found—and chosen—in the age of AI. Before launching The Savvy Digital Co., she spent 15 years in executive operations, including serving as the youngest executive at the Columbia Tower Club.
Today, Rachael develops the brand strategies, automations, and AI systems that busy business owners often do not have the time or expertise to create themselves. She is also the host of the You’re Allowed podcast and lives in downtown Seattle with her partner and their daughter, Luna.
Learn more:thesavvydigitalco.comContact: [email protected]
3 Ways you can support our October event:
At the heart of our anniversary celebration will be our Make an Impact Fundraiser, with a goal of raising at least $1,700 for Clothes For Kids. Together, we can help local students walk into school feeling comfortable, confident, and ready to learn.
1. Donations of items or a gift basket valued at $50 gratefully accepted to boost our Clothes For Kids raffle drawing. Our goal is to bless Clothes For Kids with $1700 in honor of Exceptional Connections 17th Anniversary. Contact Molly Klipp [email protected], or Cassie [email protected] for details.
2. Bring cash or check to participate in our Annual Clothes For Kids Raffle Donation. A QR Code will also be available to facilitate the purchase of raffle tickets.
- Come for the connections, stay for the inspiration, and help us make a lasting impact—our Clothes for Kids Raffle transforms every ticket into essentials that give children confidence, from fresh socks & underwear to a full wardrobe.
- Enter our Clothes For Kids raffle to WIN delightful offerings valued at $50 or more.
Choose Your Clothes For Kids Impact Level:
$5 = 2 tickets (pair of socks)
$10 = 5 tickets (pair of socks / underwear)
$20 = 12 tickets (pair of shoes)
$40 = 25 tickets (jacket)
$60 = 40 tickets (3 shirts / 3 pants)
$80 = 60 tickets (winter coat)
$100 = 100 tickets (a full wardrobe for a child)
- Thank you for making this celebration even more exceptional!
- Feel free to purchase as many tickets as you wish; not only will it boost your chances of winning, but it will also support Clothes For Kids.
- 🌟 100% for a Cause! 🌟
We are thrilled to share that all proceeds from our Exceptional Connections 17th Anniversary fundraiser will go directly to benefit Clothes For Kids—supporting local students with free school clothing, empowering them to arrive at school with confidence and dignity. Every raffle ticket purchased, every gift basket donated helps make a direct impact in the lives of children in our community. 💙👕👗 - Make checks payable to Clothes For Kids
3. Exclusive 17th Anniversary Marketplace Swag Sponsorship
In celebration of Exceptional Connections’ 17th Anniversary, we’re offering a limited Marketplace Swag Sponsorship opportunity—something we do not typically offer at our regular events! Contact Victoria Johnston at: [email protected] for details.
Sponsorship Investment:
- Champion Connectors: $117 discounted rate +plus applicable Eventbrite fees
Contact [email protected] for your Champion promo code. - Classic Connectors: $137 plus applicable Eventbrite fees
Your sponsorship includes event registration and a delicious three-course Fogo de Chão Market Table dining experience, plus:
- Placement of your business card, flyer, samples, or memorable gifts in every anniversary swag bag. A unique opportunity to get your brand in the hands of potential clients and make a lasting impression.
- Valuable take-home exposure to 50–65 entrepreneurs
- An exclusive opportunity to showcase your business with a 60-second Sponsor Spotlight. Attendees will be offered 10-second introductions.
- A dedicated PowerPoint slide featuring your business
- Recognition and contact information in our post-event email
- Additional social media visibility before, after & during our 17th Anniversary celebratory event.
Showcase your business, create memorable connections, and help us celebrate 17 exceptional years!
Why Attend an Exceptional Connections® Networking Luncheon?
* 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 / 3-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!
Cost
The Earlier You Register, The More You Save!
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 a.m. Enter through the Rio Banquet Room to check in, find your seat, and begin networking.
Arriving on time will also allow you to visit our Gift Donations Table, purchase raffle tickets at your chosen Clothes For Kids impact level, and enjoy the delicious, gluten-free Marketplace Experience.
- We ask that your Marketplace Experience Buffet visit begin at 11:40am and be completed by 11:55 AM, prior to 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 - (email cyndi@exceptional connections to receive your special one time Promo code)
$55 – Classic Connector "Early Bird" rate ends Wednesday, September 30th
$65 – Classic Connector “It’s Not Too Late” rate available until Sold Out!
$40 - Champion Connector "Early Bird" rate ends Wednesday, September 30th (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.
Sponsorship Investment:
- Champion Connectors: $117 discounted rate +plus applicable Eventbrite feesContact [email protected] for your Champion promo code.
- Classic Connectors: $137 plus applicable Eventbrite fees
Your sponsorship includes event registration and a delicious three-course Fogo de Chão Market Table dining experience, plus:
- Placement of your business card, flyer, samples, or memorable gifts in every anniversary swag bag. A unique opportunity to get your brand in the hands of potential clients and make a lasting impression.
- Valuable take-home exposure to 50–65 entrepreneurs
- An exclusive opportunity to showcase your business with a 60-second Sponsor Spotlight. Attendees will be offered 10-second introductions.
- A dedicated PowerPoint slide featuring your business
- Recognition and contact information in our post-event email
- Additional social media visibility before, after & during our 17th Anniversary celebratory event.
Showcase your business, create memorable connections, and help us celebrate 17 exceptional years!
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!
Exclusive 17th Anniversary Marketplace Swag Sponsorship
In celebration of Exceptional Connections’ 17th Anniversary, we’re offering a limited Marketplace Swag Sponsorship opportunity—something we do not typically offer at our regular events!
Sponsorship Investment:
- Champion Connectors: $117 discounted rate +plus applicable Eventbrite feesContact [email protected] for your Champion promo code.
- Classic Connectors: $137 plus applicable Eventbrite fees
Your sponsorship includes event registration and a delicious three-course Fogo de Chão Market Table dining experience, plus...
Marketplace Swag Sponsorship: 17th Anniversary Celebration Value Includes:
- Exclusive Swag Bag Opportunity: Placement of your business card, flyer, samples, or memorable gifts in every anniversary swag bag. A unique opportunity to get your brand in the hands of potential clients and make a lasting impression.
- High Visibility: Ensure your business goes home with 50-65+ entrepreneurs attending the event through our exclusive swag bags.
- Support a Milestone Celebration: Showcase your business while supporting Exceptional Connections’ 17th Anniversary + Clothes For Kids Make an Impact Fundraising event.
- Event Recognition: An exclusive opportunity to showcase your business with a 60-second Sponsor Spotlight accompanied by a personalized Power Point slide featuring your business. Attendees will be offered 10-second introductions.
- Pre & Post-Event Exposure: Your contact information & Swag Sponsor slide including your headshot will be included in pre & post-networking email communications.
- Social Media Visibility: Enjoy additional acknowledgment and visibility through social media as an added value.
- Unique Opportunity: This sponsorship is a rare treat, not offered at our regular events.
- Included: Networking registration includes a delicious Fogo de Chao healthy & delicious 3-course meal.
Showcase your business, create memorable connections, and help us celebrate 17 exceptional years!
Contact [email protected] if you are interested in gaining more visibility as a Marketplace Swag Sponsor for our October event, or a Marketplace Spotlight Vendor at our monthly networking Luncheons.
🌟 Exceptional Connections Networking Luncheon
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
🕦 Arrival & Networking
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.
⏰ Important Timing Note
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.
🥗 Market Table Experience
- Fresh mixed greens and gourmet salads
- Marinated vegetables
- Imported cheeses
- Cured meats
- Smoked salmon
- Gluten-free and lighter options
🥗 Classic Brazilian Sides at Fogo de Chão
- 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
- 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
🥗 Beverages
- 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 continue to 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…
Upcoming Exceptional Connections Events:
Wednesday, September 16, 2026 – Conversation to Connect with Jill Lublin
Monday, September 21, 2026 – Heart Behind Daily Habits of Champions – Brenda Reiss
Tuesday, October 13, 2026 – EC-17th Anniversary Celebration + CFK Fundraiser
Monday, October 19, 2026 – Heart Behind Daily Habits of Champion – Kim Pelham
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 – Conversation to Connect with 3 Panelists
Tuesday, November 10, 2026 – Featuring Spotlight speaker Janet Spangler
Monday, November 16, 2026 – Heart Behind Daily Habits of Champion – Kathy Miller
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 – Conversation to Connect with Janet Spangler
Tuesday, December 8, 2026 – Holiday Extravaganza + Champion of the Year
Tuesday, January 12, 2027 - Annual Word for the Year Proclamation Luncheon
TBD - Vision Board Party
TBD - Champion Connector Tea Parties
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
Name tags:
Name tags will be prepared for attendees who register by the Monday before our 2nd Tuesday event at 9:00pm.
Registration information:
By registering for Exceptional Connections events, you agree to have your email added to our e-invitation list. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Questions?
Call or email Exceptional Connections® Founder / Chief Connector Cyndi O'Neill-Dady 425-346-8895 or [email protected]
What is Exceptional Connections® Refund Policy?
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 9am the Monday before our 2nd Tuesday event.
Day of notifications after 8am will NOT be credited or transferred due to our Fogo de Chao Event Order Banquet Agreement that holds us to the attendee count.
Thank you in advance for your understanding and appreciation of our refund policy.
What is Exceptional Connections® Snow 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.
Hold Harmless Release
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.
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 Circle, an Exceptional Insight presentation is offered by a member of our community, each attendee is offered the visibility of a 30-45-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 continue the conversation during our Open Forum in addition to showcasing the services and products of our Marketplace Spotlight vendors.
Event venue & nearby stays
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, 18602 Alderwood Mall Parkway, Lynnwood, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.