National Social Blog

📈 Why Your Outfit Matters at a Networking Event Whether you're attending a relaxed mixer or a formal business event, what you wear sets the tone before you even speak. In professional networking settings — especially for those in their 20s and 30s — it’s about looking sharp without overdoing it. The right outfit shows: You’re intentional You respect the event and the people attending You’re ready to build meaningful connections 👕 What Is the Dress Code for a Networking Event? Most modern networking events — especially in cities like Ottawa — fall into one of these three categories: 1. Smart Casual (Most Common for Young Professionals) Great for: Mixers, after-work socials, creative industries Men: Collared shirt, dark jeans or chinos, blazer optional Women: Stylish blouse, smart pants or skirt, flats or low heels ✅ You’ll fit right in at our events like “Friday Night Cocktail Socials” or “Ottawa Young Professionals Mixers” ❌ Avoid: T-shirts, athleti...

Make meaningful connections, grow your career, and expand your circle — one event at a time. 👋 Why Networking in Ottawa Matters More Than Ever Ottawa isn’t just the capital of Canada — it’s a growing hub of tech, innovation, government, and entrepreneurship. For professionals in their 20s and 30s, networking here isn’t just optional — it’s essential. Whether you're new to the city, building your personal brand, or exploring new opportunities, the right connection can change everything. 🤝 What Are Professional Networking Events? Professional networking events bring together people looking to grow professionally — not just to exchange business cards, but to build real relationships. Some are industry-specific, while others, like our events at National Social Networking Group , are designed to connect ambitious professionals across sectors in a relaxed, social atmosphere. 🔍 Types of Networking Events in Ottawa Here’s a breakdown of popular formats you’ll find in the city: ...

Whether you're attending a paint night, cocktail mixer, or bubble tea social, knowing how to behave at social events can make all the difference between an awkward evening and a night full of connections. At National Social Networking Group , we’ve hosted hundreds of events for people in their 20s and 30s across Canada. We know what works—and what doesn’t. Here’s your guide to navigating your next event with confidence, charm, and ease. ✅ 1. Be Approachable (Even Before You Speak) First impressions happen fast—sometimes before you even open your mouth. Do: Smile genuinely (not forced, not creepy) Maintain relaxed, open body language Keep your phone in your pocket (not your hand) Make casual eye contact with people around you Don’t: Cross your arms or look bored Stare at your phone the entire time Hover awkwardly without joining a group Pro tip: Arrive early when groups are still forming. It’s easier to strike up conversations before social clusters ...

Not sure what to wear to your next social event? You’re not alone. Whether it’s a paint night, cocktail mixer, or bubble tea social, knowing what to wear can make a huge difference in how you feel—and how confidently you connect with others. At National Social Networking Group , we host events for 20s–30s to meet new people in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Here’s your ultimate guide on what to wear to a social event , broken down for both men and women, to help you look and feel your best. 👩 What Women Should Wear to a Social Event Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, the vibe is casual chic with a touch of personality . Here's what works: ✅ Go-To Outfit Ideas: Cute tops or crop tops with high-waisted jeans or a skirt Flowy dresses or rompers (especially for summer events) A trendy jacket or cardigan for layering Simple jewelry or statement earrings to add flair Comfy but stylish shoes (sneakers, boots, or low heels) 🚫 What to Avoid: Heels ...

Looking for something new, fun, and actually social to do in Ottawa? You’re in luck. The National Social Networking Group is bringing back our top-rated paint night socials —and this time, we’re mixing it up with ice cream , bubble tea , and good vibes only. Perfect for anyone in their 20s or 30s looking to meet new people, these events are all about connection, laughter, and creativity. No art experience needed—just come ready to chill, paint, and make some new friends. 🎉 Upcoming Ottawa Events You Don’t Want to Miss: 🖌️ Ice Cream & Paint Party 📍 Wed, July 30 | 6–9 PM 📍 87 Murray Street (Miss Bean Cafe) 🍦 A sweet twist on paint night—ice cream + creativity + new friends! 🧋 Paint N Sip with Bubble Tea 📍 Wed, August 13 | 6–9 PM 📍 Hi T Lounge, 1076 Wellington St. W 🎨 Sip your favorite bubble tea while painting in a cozy, social setting. 👯 Fun Paint Night & Bubble Tea Social 📍 Wed, August 27 | 6–9 PM 📍 Hi T Lounge, 1076 Wellington St. W 💬 A super fun,...

Are you in your 20s or 30s and looking to connect with like-minded individuals in Ottawa? Whether you're a young professional, entrepreneur, or marketer, this summer is packed with must-attend networking events designed to boost your social and professional life. Here’s your ultimate guide to three of the top Ottawa networking events you won’t want to miss: 📍 1. Ottawa – Network with Young Professionals 📅 Friday, July 25, 2025 | 🕕 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM 📍 Beyond the Pale, 250 City Centre Ave Bay 106, Ottawa Why Attend? If you're a professional in your 20s or 30s looking to grow your local network, this event is perfect. With a casual setting, guided introductions, and social vibes, you'll make real connections — not just swap business cards. Best For: ✅ Professionals new to Ottawa ✅ Graduates & remote workers ✅ Anyone looking to meet driven, sociable peers 📍 2. Ottawa – Young Entrepreneurs Mixer 📅 Wednesday, August 20, 2025 | 🕕 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM 📍 Hi T...

 Toronto’s summer scene is heating up, and if you’re in your 20s or 30s , it’s the perfect time to step out, make friends, and enjoy the city’s vibrant social energy. Whether you're new to Toronto , or just ready to meet fresh faces, our upcoming events are a must for anyone looking to expand their social life. These casual, friendly mixers are hosted by the National Social Networking Group — known for organizing fun, inclusive events across Canada that bring people together with no pressure and no awkward vibes. 🍹 Upcoming Toronto Social Events – July 2025 🗓️ Meet Locals Over Cocktails 📍 1835 Yonge St (The Bull: A Firkin Pub) 📅 Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 🕗 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM Unwind with a drink and a conversation. This event is all about effortless socializing in a cozy, central location. Whether you come solo or with a friend, you’ll leave with new connections. 🗓️ Rooftop Cocktails & Friend-Making Night 📍 2-20 College St (Rooftop) 📅 Sunday, July 20, 2025 |...

The National Social Networking Group is creating opportunities for young adults in Montreal to connect face-to-face. If you're in your 20s or 30s and looking to expand your network — socially or professionally — these curated mixers offer a relaxed space to meet like-minded individuals in a welcoming, inclusive environment. 🗓️ Upcoming Montreal Social Mixers 🍹 20s & 30s Social Night Over Drinks 📍 243 Mont-Royal Ave W (Tacos Express) 📅 Fri 18 Jul 2025 | 🕢 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM A lively night with tacos, cocktails, and icebreaker games that make meeting people easy and fun. Perfect for anyone looking to expand their social circle. 🍸 Meet New People at This Cocktails Social Mixer! 📍 3977 St Laurent Blvd (Le Bar Chi) 📅 Sat 19 Jul 2025 | 🕖 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM Step into a casual, energetic setting where locals in their 20s and 30s come to chat, laugh, and connect over drinks. Great for solo attendees or friend groups. 💬 Why These Events Work ✅ Specifically for 20s–30s ✅ ...

Looking to meet new people in Ottawa? Whether you're new to the city or just tired of the same social circle, the National Social Networking Group is your go-to for fun, casual social mixers designed to help people in their 20s and 30s make real connections. 👋 What Are These Events About? These are low-pressure social events that bring together people looking for new friendships, fun conversations, and unique experiences. No cliques. No awkwardness. Just real people coming together to meet, chat, and vibe. Our events are perfect for: Young professionals in Ottawa Newcomers looking to build their social circle People in their 20s or 30s seeking new friendships Locals tired of typical bar nights and looking for something more meaningful 🎉 Upcoming Ottawa Social Events 🗓️ Make New Friends This Friday 📍 202 Sparks St (The Office) 📅 Fri 18 Jul 2025 | 🕗 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM ➡️ A friendly, upbeat night where meeting new people is the main goal. 🗓️ Network...

If you're in your 20s or 30s and looking to meet new people, make real friends , or just break out of your routine, you're not alone. The National Social Networking Group is built for exactly that—bringing people together in a laid-back, welcoming environment through fun and structured social mixers . Here’s what usually happens at one of our events, and how we help you feel at ease from the moment you arrive. 👋 Step 1: Arrival & Welcome From the moment you walk in, expect a friendly, no-pressure atmosphere . Whether you come solo or with a friend, our hosts are there to greet you and help you get settled. You’ll find that most people attend alone —and that’s totally normal. Everyone's here for the same reason: to make new friends and connections . 🔄 Step 2: Guided Icebreakers No awkward small talk here. Our events start with light, structured icebreaker activities designed to make introductions easy and fun. These may include: Quick “get-to-know-you” rou...

Because your 20s and 30s shouldn’t be the loneliest time of your life. Let’s be honest — making new friends as an adult isn’t exactly easy. Whether you're new to a city like Ottawa or Montreal, or just tired of relying on dating apps to meet people, finding genuine connections can feel like a challenge. That’s why we created the National Social Networking Group — to make it easier, less awkward, and way more fun to build your social circle through real in-person events . Here’s how our events are helping 20s–30s connect, laugh, and turn strangers into actual friends — without any pressure. 🧋🎨 1. Events That Are Built for Socializing — Not Just Attending At most bars or parties, you’re expected to just walk up and “mingle.” But at our events, everything is structured around connection . Whether it’s a Bubble Tea & Paint Night , Cocktail Mixer , or a Salsa Dancing Social , you’re given natural ways to chat, share laughs, and meet 10+ new people in one night. Some example...

If you're in your 20s or 30s and looking for fun ways to meet new people in Ottawa , July is packed with can't-miss events! Whether you’re new to the city, craving fresh connections, or just need a break from the same old routine, these upcoming socials will help you expand your circle — no awkward small talk required. Here are 3 of Ottawa’s top social events this July that are perfect for young professionals, creatives, newcomers, and anyone ready to make new friends in real life. 🎨 1. Ottawa – Boba & Brush: Paint Night Social 📅 Tuesday, July 8, 2025 | ⏰ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM 📍 Hi T Lounge, 1076 Wellington St. W, Ottawa Looking for a creative, chill way to meet people? This Paint Night Social is a vibrant night out where you can sip bubble tea, meet new people in Ottawa , and express yourself through painting — no experience required. 🖌️ Why Attend: Great for solo attendees or small groups Meet fun 20s–30s locals in a casual setting All painting supplies p...

Let’s be real — meeting new people as an adult isn’t easy. Whether you're new to Ottawa or simply looking to expand your social circle, it can feel awkward trying to make friends in your 20s and 30s. Gone are the days of classroom buddies and dorm room chats. Now it’s work, errands, maybe the gym... and not a whole lot of built-in opportunities to form meaningful connections. But here’s the good news: Ottawa is full of people just like you , and the social scene here is more welcoming than you think — if you know where to look. 🎯 1. Join Events Designed for 20s–30s One of the best ways to meet new people in Ottawa is to attend real-world social events specifically geared toward people in their 20s and 30s. These events take the pressure off networking or dating and focus instead on casual, fun ways to connect. We started the National Social Networking Group for exactly this reason — to help young adults meet new people in a relaxed, friendly environment. From social mixer...