Our event 'Cocktails & A Movie' was held on Saturday night and we all had a great time!  The evening started off with the arrival of our guests and some mixing and mingling amongst everyone.  Old friends caught up with each other, new friends started new conversations and the room was bustling with energy and chatter. 
After we took some pics and we broke out the refreshments, we introduced ourselves and spoke a little about Shades of Influence and what we do.  Then we watched Widows which was a heist thriller but so much more. 

The movie was a study in many of the topics that are at the forefront of the news today: race, politics, social inequity, corruption and gender dynamics.  The themes were weighty but they did not take away from the movie also being quite entertaining. 

After the film was done, we had a group discussion about the movie's themes and twists and turns and our audience did not hold back!  The conversation was thought provoking and it was great to spend time hearing each others' opinions. 

The point of the evening was to connect people through experiences and watching a movie and having some great discussion afterward certainly accomplished that. 

Shades readers, a secondary benefit of the evening is related to our February theme which, as you know, is Networking.  We got some people in a room to have some fun and connections were created and re-ignited.  Last night's event is a great example of how networking does not have to be painful! 

Thanks to everyone who attended and who continue to support us! 

Click here to see the evening photos. 

Have a great week and don't forget to share us on all of your social media channels!