Well, that was a surprise!
Our May 22nd Network Provence meeting with Nora Jaccaud at Le Gare de Bonnieux promised to be a delightful afternoon of communing with the lovely ladies of NP under a sun-filled sky. This was temptation enough because all of our get-togethers are such a tonic, no matter what person is doing the presenting. Little did I know I was in for an instrumental skill highlight that would help me define a whole aspect of my profession.
I confess I did not know much about Nora, our speaker of the day; apart from that, she is the daughter of distinguished art royalty, provencal/polish parents, a photographer/videographer of renown and has the best fringe in the Luberon. Here comes the surprise-she is also a professional in the art of “unconditional listening”, a skill she employs in her art form videos, @Human Postcards, which she shared with us today. In her quiet, charming way, Nora disclosed some secrets about unconditional listening that would help anyone gain access to the world of people, both professionally and personally. She gently took us through some interactive exercises to demonstrate the power of this, proving a revealing and insightful aspect to her form of communication- one which was both familiar and obvious but often not precisely prevalent unless the intention was to focus on hearing the actual words of the one you are listening to. Nora left us all with a feeling of such thoughtfulness. It would be a great salve to humanity if we could all deepen our sense of hearing each other rather than simply listening to respond. I will happily look into Nora’s work and methods more, as the benefits of what she’s saying are manifold.
We are fortunate to have such a group of interesting women to gather with. Besides our evocative speaker, we had a great time catching up with each other in the glorious sunshine, being a little irreverent and sharing a lot of laughter. The NP space always feels like a safe haven to enjoy the company of women, like-minded or not, from so many different ages and nationalities. Seeing each for their talents and stories and being seen by women one admires- well, it is the essence of Network Provence- connections- one of the most powerful values we hold dear.
My last side note: I was impressed with the coincidence that many women brought information about friends’ upcoming events and exhibitions to share. Even though we would normally promote the happenings of members only, this group is so generous and feels that getting NP women alert to other events is valuable. I cannot think of a smarter way to connect oneself to the world of Provence culture and events than Network Provence.
Join us soon and share in this connective experience!
The next events will be on June 5 in Aix-en-Provence from 10 am to 12.00 and on June 25 at Racines’ wine shop from 5 pm to 7 pm. Please also keep an eye on @networkprovence and the Facebook group for more information about upcoming events.
By Maryna Fontenoy for Network Provence
Network Provence met and explored a new location this week at Cafe de la Gare in Bonnieux. After seeing a photography exhibition here, we thought it might be a good meeting space, and fortunately, the management agreed. So we have a new, beautiful space to gather, connect and share! Admiring the view, plenty of parking and easy access were big perks! Some ladies even came early to sample the lunch, which was generous, reasonably priced and reportedly delicious. Access to the bar for a cafe (or a carafe!) was also great.
Sabine Copinga of Carefree En Provence was our presenter. Sabine gave a very informative talk about telling our brand story, highlighting things she has learned in her various experiences as a storyteller in her businesses and working for huge humanitarian organisations like Save the Children. Her helpful tips and tricks highlighted some aspects that a busy boss lady might overlook but are essential to getting your brand known and trusted. Authenticity was a key polishing point and especially vital to us here in Provence, who have come to seek an ideal while staying true to ourselves and our brands.
It was wonderful to stand back and take in the incredible diversity of the gathering. Women of more than a dozen nationalities and varying ages coming together in discussions on a myriad of topics is a powerful source of inspiration. Did we witness connections being made- indeed, we did! Sometimes, the connections are surprising chain links that lead to incredible projects and circle us back to NP in unexpected ways. Having people together in person is such a tonic and allows one to ask questions, put names to faces and be remembered. Re-igniting acquaintances, new introductions, and a significant, powerful lifting of each other is exactly what a Network Provence meeting is about. The most amazing energiser is coming together safely and knowing you will be appreciated for contributing to the group. Being a business owner, artist, and entrepreneur can be a lonely endeavour. For women who are also working to support family and trying to fit into personal well-being, it can be challenging to source like-minded listeners who get it. Network Provence is that solution.
The next gathering at Cafe de la Gare will be on March 29th. If you have not discovered the meetings, please come along and see them yourself. The next presentation will be with Helen Puillandre of Moss and Branches, who will demonstrate her brilliant flower arrangements in time for spring blooming. Helen is a long-time member of NP and one of my favourite introductions from Network Provence. With her humble presence and jolly love of plants, she is a master of arrangements, and you have probably seen her creations in some of the most beautiful locations in the region.
Perhaps you have something you would like to present to the group? Get in touch with Rebecca Ronane to find a date. As a presenter, you will share with a fabulous group of women who will appreciate your time and welcome your contribution. We all benefit from these gatherings and hope to see you at Network Provence soon!
Maryna Fontenoy for Network Provence
Network Provence is starting a new way to be a MEMBER in 2024. Instead of paying a one-off fee for the year, you can now have a monthly subscription membership, which can start and end anytime. The cost of this is extremely reasonable at 7 euros per month!
Click Here to Join
The benefits of being a member are numerous!
It would be wrong to think that membership is all about coming to meetings.
Even for those who cannot attend regular meetings, there are many great ways to promote yourself through NP membership!
The meetings are fantastic for socialising and learning and a great way to be inspired by women who, like you, have made Provence their choice of place to live and work. It is always a convivial time to get to see and speak with other members in person, and as we all know, these sorts of meetings keep people in our minds when we are searching for connections. However, the non-meeting connections can be just as fruitful for those wanting others to know they are out there with services, projects, products and businesses to share.
With the membership subscription at only 7 euros monthly, there is tremendous value in being a member. Current members can take advantage of a special price as well. Please contact Rebecca to find out if you need to renew now.
Non-members can attend three meetings with a fee but must join after three times. It is a much better value to join and be a part of this special group while having access to all the benefits.
Network Provence is a safe, inclusive space for women in the region who are interested in business, travel, networking, food, art, culture, local happenings, and so much more. One does not have to run a business to belong and have something to gain from the group. We are proud of the inspiring and supportive way NP has evolved. Through membership, we will be able to continue to provide a warm and welcoming space for the International English-speaking community of women in Provence.
Let us know if you have more questions, OR you can click HERE to sign up for your membership.
Maryna Fontenoy for Network Provence
