London has a way of reminding me how much I love it – and who I am professionally and creatively. Every time I return, the city always feels familiar and new at the same time. This particular trip was not just another series of meetings or venue visits. It became a week that completely re-grounded me in relationships, the love for the world of events and the importance of being present.
Living in Spain means that so much of my work happens through conversations across screens. Emails, calls and virtual meetings are my day-to-day. Yet stepping back into London always shifts something in energy.
From the moment I arrived, I felt immersed in a week that would be filled with lunching, learning and networking!
Returning to the Team and Creating Space to Think
One of the most meaningful parts of the week was gathering together as a full team at The Hoxton Southwark. We spent the morning immersed in proactive sales training … yet the word training hardly feels right! It felt more like a collective reset.
We sat together discussing the client journey and ideas flowed easily, and conversations unfolded naturally. There was something powerful about being in the same room, hearing each other think out loud and shaping our strategy together in real time.
In a fast-moving events world, it is easy to believe there is no time to pause normally: emails arrive constantly, enquiries demand attention. Yet carving out those hours reminded me how essential it is to step back to move forward with clarity. the time with the team reinforced how deeply rooted our work is in authenticity and genuine relationships.
We then had lunch at SeaBird, which was a lovely way to end such a productive morning. The restaurant sits high above the city, offering a stylish and elevated atmosphere. Even without sunshine on the terrace, the space was simply stunning. Conversations moved from strategy to laughter, from business to personal moments, and it reminded me how important shared time is within a remote team.
Industry Energy at the London Summer Party Show
Later that day, we stepped into the vibrant atmosphere of the London Summer Party Show. For me, these moments hold a special part in what we do.
Walking through the space allowed me to connect with my network and friends within the industry. Conversations that usually happen through email undoubtedly gain warmth and depth. It was inspiring to see familiar venues evolve and to discover new partners.
What I always notice at events like this is the attention to detail. When an exhibition is curated by events professionals, you expect seamless flow, and it was. The energy was vibrant and at the same time relaxed, and I left feeling inspired not only by the venues but by the people who bring them to life.
One of the most rewarding aspects was witnessing how real-world connections still drive our industry forward. A reminder that relationships remain at the heart of everything we do.
Learning with Avenue Sales and Marketing and Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Midweek brought another layer of inspiration through a Small Luxury Hotels of the World networking event. Held at Oriole in Seven Dials, the evening was great to catch up with our partners at Avenue Sales and Marketing.
Walking through the space, I felt surrounded by stories of destinations across the globe. Each conversation revealed new perspectives on leadership retreats, incentive travel and boutique hospitality. Listening to hotel representatives speak about their properties made the experiences come to life in a way that brochures can’t really.
The evening was not simply about networking. It felt like stepping into a global community of fellow agents and other industry professionals, and it was so good see so many familiar faces! And of course, beautifully crafted cocktails added to the atmosphere, turning the evening into a celebration of all things SLH.
MLC Connects event at Ottolenghi
Earlier that same day, I had the pleasure of hosting an intimate client breakfast at Ottolenghi. I absolutely loved hosting this small gathering first thing in the morning and it is so nice to feel so connected to our clients.
The space at Spitalfields is fabulous – a deli on the left as you go in, a long bar on the right and a space that felt warm and inviting. Of course, it was filled with the scent of incredible food and the gentle rhythm of conversation. Hosting alongside Millie, I felt proud of the environment we created. It was relaxed and friendly – and professional and vibrant all at the same time, allowing clients to connect with each other as much as with us.
Moments like these remind me that luxury is not always about scale. Sometimes it is about intimacy, attention to detail and the feeling of being truly welcomed.
Rediscovering London on Foot
One of the most unexpected pleasures of the week was walking through London rather than rushing between tubes. I allowed myself to move slowly through streets I know so well.
Those quiet walks created space to think. They allowed me to absorb everything I was experiencing rather than simply moving from one commitment to the next. It was also so good to feel so part of the hustle, bustle and lock in on locations that sometimes pass me by.
Discovering Shoreditch with Virgin Hotels
A long anticipated visit to Virgin Hotels Shoreditch brought a fresh wave of inspiration. I have wanted to visit this venue for a while and places like this only reveal their personality only when experienced in person. The fresh venue design, intimate cocktail spaces and thoughtful details created an environment that is memorable. With so many events spaces on different levels with different styles, I was so pleased to have visited to get a feel of it all!
What fascinated me most was learning about the wider Virgin portfolio. Conversations about Mallorca, the British Virgin Islands and global incentive opportunities opened my mind to entirely new possibilities. There are some really special places in their portfolio!
Standing in those spaces, I could instantly imagine clients hosting networking evenings that feel immersive and memorable. Again, we know just important it is to see venues beyond their brochure images.
Finding Calm in the Middle of the City at Pyro
Later in the week, I joined clients for a site visit at Pyro in London Bridge. Despite relentless rain, the venue felt like stepping into a serene escape. The feeling was instantly soft and warm and a Mykonos inspired aesthetic created an atmosphere that transported me across the sea!
Even with the weather challenging expectations, the space maintained its charm. Heaters glowed and conversations flowed – it was amazing to catch up with the clients in this way. For the venue itself, the emphasis on food added another layer of appeal, I haven’t yet tried the offerings myself but the feedback from previous events has been stunning!
Ending the Week with a Galentines Celebration
The week closed with a Galentines dinner that deserves its own story (and there is, you can read the full blog on why we love galentines and all about the event HERE). Surrounded by incredible women from our incredible network of event bookers, the evening was genuinely special. Truly, the events we create are not just professional moments… they are experiences that build connection and belonging.
Leaving London Re-Energised
As I reflect on the week now, what stays with me is a feeling of renewed energy. London offered more than meetings or site visits, it offered reconnection and not only to our clients and the venue partners, but also to the reconnection back into the city we know and love.
I left the city feeling inspired and grounded… but also the essence of our work lies not only in beautiful venues or perfectly planned events but in the people who bring them to life.
And as always, London continues to call me back and I will be back soon!