COTE Brasserie was the perfect setting for an evening of style presented by the team at Chloe James Lifestyle last week at their charity fashion show in aid of Outreach Plus.

The event was a complete sell out and very well supported by Donna Nichol and Maria Allen’s dedicated followers of fashion including me!

Chloe James store is in a charming Tudor building in the city centre positioned on the High Street since 2010. The shop is set over three floors offering unique fashion, interiors and gift purchases which are quirky, chic and here in St Albans! Do pop in or visit their website www.chloejames.co.uk and support this local retailer and Chamber member. It is so important to support these local businesses that help St Albans offer a diverse shopping experience for residents and visitors, this character is lacking in many other towns and cities.

Another gem here in the district is the haven of relaxation set in our favourite park, the Verulamium Spa. I was very impressed by the first class facilities there at Westminster Lodge and was fortunate enough to spend the morning there last Friday. The various relaxation areas really allow you to escape from the daily demand and escape for a few hours to a place of calmness and tranquillity.

The design and layout of the spa is very well thought out, a great success for St Albans District Council. The parking is no longer an issue with ample space for those using the spa, gym and visiting the park. Overall this demonstrates how public and private enterprise can work together successfully.

The dedicated, professional and very personable staff are a credit to the site operator Everyone Active. The ambience and the welcoming team there matched with exceptional treatments available definitely get the thumbs up from me! The massage I had was truly exceptional.

Gift vouchers are available to buy and day passes are available for those wishing to visit who may not be keen to budget to full monthly membership. www.verulamiumspa.com

Our speed networking event later this month will be held in the Bistro at Westminster Lodge, all delegates will receive a tour of the facilities and will be entered into a draw for treatment at the in-house Verulamium Spa!

So speed networking... a great way to network but without the romance!? The fastest and most cost-effective way to positively promote your business and it is really good fun.

People often ask me why do I need to network? My response is always the same, to raise your company profile, to pick up tips from like-minded people in the local business community, to build strategic alliances, widen your customer base, to build on your professional development and have fun.

In fact, you’ll make more business contacts in just one evening of speed networking with us than in weeks of what we call ordinary “slow” business networking. It’s remarkably cost-effective and gets you great results for your business.

Many people tend to gravitate towards those they may already know at networking events, never getting the opportunity to meet others who could be great business contacts. Come along to this event and meet every single delegate. Market your business effectively and enjoy a buffet and a glass of wine at this superb new Chamber venue.

There are only a few places left so do get in touch today if you would like to attend on May 21 at 6pm.

We would like to welcome the following businesses to the Chamber: Cote Brasserie, Bidwells, Pro-Actions and White Tiger Cleaning.