*Want to win a free bottle of wine?* See Fiona’s request for help below…

In Mike Nightingale’s absence, Christian Engerslev, with his normal panache led our merry troupe this morning.

Christian Engerslev, from Danesoft had the following important information to impart. Ideally, our websites should be updated bi-monthly in order to ensure good Google ratings. This seems like an enormous task, but with the packages he provides this is something that is easy to facilitate yourself. He also provides companies with surveys, asking questions of their clients in order to understand what their market sector wants. Well provided for customers are happy bunnies and will always come back and buy more.

George Emsden from In2Consulting, wants to hold your hand and walk you through the “mish mash” of policies and small print to be found in insurance policies, especially for those persons dealing with redundancy insurance. He is particularly keen to help people plan for the future, particularly those suffering from cancer. Please do read his blog on the subject and pass on to those that might benefit from the information contained therein.

Hiten Thaker from Revolution Design did us proud with his 10 minute presentation. It is always fascinating to discover what a diverse range of clients he has and understand the detailed quality of his work. Revolution loves to work on the “funky Stuff” that revolves around Music and Lifestyle, but “there isn’t enough dosh” involved. He has worked for prestigious clients such as the NHS nationally and for different PCTs around the country. Microsoft is also a client. There is good business to be had from creating and designing power-point presentations and catalogue work. He would like introductions to Marketing and Communications Managers.

Caroline Hampstead, our resident wordsmith has recently been working in the IT and high tech industries. If you want to know about breast enhancement in simple easy to understand terms – she’s your girl! She writes impactful, memorable copy and this week is looking to be introduced to Marketing Directors in any industry sector who need their information disseminated in accessible and relevant ways.

Roy Duncan from RG Duncan didn’t pitch up this week, having left a message on our esteemed Chairman’s (temporary post) mobile, saying “I’m knackered” However, I do know that he is looking for a paraplanner (what ever that is) in North London or Herts area who is looking for a new challenge..

The HSBC baton was carried by Laura Firestone this week, who is looking for intros to new international customers, who trade abroad or in the UK or who want to use their Foreign Exchange facilities. Laura will be walking 26 miles for Breast Cancer UK this weekend. Energy tablets and blister plasters have been purchased – but what colour is her bra??? To support Laura in her endeavours please go to: www.justgiving.com/brestoffriends and see the pics after the event..

Lewis Malka, from Joseph Sterling, hand crafts the most delicious pieces of jewelry, as evidenced by the “rock” handed round. He is keen to access those willing to host a “Gold Evening”. He will pitch up with a testing kit, scales and a cheque book. All you have to do is provide the guests who want to get rid of their old gold jewelry. “Think crap jewelry, think Lewis” (His quote, not mine!)

Treading the boards was Louise Hassett from Delfont Mackintosh Theatres. In charge of corporate hospitality & events for 7 theatres across London. She specifically mentioned Les Mis, what better than a fab night out with bubbles, canapés and chocolates? PS. Judi Dench is a lot shorter than you might have imagined, if indeed you have spent time pondering her height.

Alexis Garnaut-Miller from The Happiness Centre is marking 15 years trading at the Centre in West London. Practioners from the centre offer training to organisations that focus on stress management. She is particularly looking for introductions to HR managers in law and accountancy firms. “Their stress is our happiness”

Richard Houldsworth from Splatt Print has been working with the Museum of London on an exciting project. He has already had enquiries for Christmas brochures from hotels. He wants to meet companies that plan ahead or need help to plan forward so that he can imbue them with his passion and creativity.

Paul Marmor was representing Sherrards Solicitors.

Jamie Denham from Sliced Bread Animation has recently been working with companies launching new products, which is good to hear in today’s economic climate. Amongst those in his rosta of clients there is a toothbrush manufacturer, a satellite company, and a bank. He is currently looking to be introduced to branding agencies and marketing managers – across all industry sectors…

Kirsty Joly from Perfectly Tempered has taken her first Xmas order! Please let her know about any event managers, restaurants, housekeeping departments within hotels that would benefit from her scrumptious choccies, which also make great corporate gifts. Kirsty can be seen walking the wings of a plane this weekend, undoubtedly blessing all those beneath her – or perhaps showering them with chocolates

The dashing Des Sutton from Man Bytes Dog, provides corporate IT for the SME. He is currently offering a one hour free consultation that will provide an inventory of both hard and software. He will, in collaboration with the client, define what level of service they require, the benefits to be had and write a ½ page report. He is currently looking for companies interested in referral partnerships and his one hour free consultation.

Gavin Morton-Holmes from Destiny has signed a deal with the UK’s leading high street optician. He has saved their flagship store 600 hours per month! The cost saving benefits of using his pen are huge and this week he would like intros to High St. opticians, particularly Dollond & Aitchison.

Justin Beavis from World Dive Centres advises that this brilliant concept is growing, both in profile and presence and he continues working on projects in Dubai. They will also be acting as consultants to projects in Mexico and Tanzania, which will add to their fast growing consultancy arm of the business. He is currently interested to meet with persons in the construction and development arenas and also those involved in new leisure destinations

Zoe Antin from Opus Telecom offers a full telephony service, on line rental and cheaper call rates. She is looking for franchise opportunities and for those about to move offices.

Sally Brown from The Beauty Consultants Bureau is looking for leads into marketing and PR agencies in key cities across the UK. Her staff hand out leaflets, offer sampling personnel in stores – and they are even willing to provide staff in costume. She is looking for any clients in the retail field

Fiona Gale has relinquished her directorship of Only Connect Solutions and will now concentrate on her abiding passion and area of expertise which are the food and hospitality sectors. I will be sending you all my new CV, and would appreciate any suggestions as to how I might describe my services (Gavin, careful!) on my business cards. Essentially I will be involved in event management, food production and menu creation for fast food brands and restaurants, branding, merchandising and styling.

I cannot think of a descriptor for my new business cards. My name does not suffice as it will leave people wondering who the *beep* was she and what does she do!? All suggestions welcome, the winner will receive a good bottle of wine!

Fiona Gale