In a time when networking can often feel impersonal or performative, Creative Connections Community (CCC) offers something far more intentional, a space where meaningful relationships, shared values, and elegant conversation take centre stage. Founded by Tilly Smith, CCC brings together entrepreneurs, creatives, and forward-thinking professionals for curated gatherings that prioritise authenticity over agenda.
I sat down with Tilly to explore how her background as a seasoned producer informs the CCC experience, what sets these events apart, and why the art of connection is more vital than ever.
You’ve cultivated a distinct approach to event curation through Creative Connections Community. What inspired you to redefine traditional networking and launch this community?
I think many of us can relate to the traditional networking experience: being dropped into a room full of strangers, making small talk that rarely goes beyond the surface, and often leaving with a handful of business cards but very real little connection. It can feel forced, transactional, and honestly, a bit draining, especially when conversations are dominated by people pitching or pushing, rather than showing genuine interest in you.
Last year, after attending a lot of networking events, I noticed something: I kept gravitating towards the same kind of people, those who were genuinely passionate about what they did, curious about others, and more focused on actually building connections and not just collecting leads. That observation became the spark behind Creative Connections Community. I wanted to create a space where people like that could come together in a more intentional, less intimidating setting, one that encouraged meaningful conversations, mutual support, and real collaboration. Because when you strip away the performative elements of networking and facilitate an environment for people to show up as they are and talk about things that matter and connect on a deeper level, that’s where the most valuable relationships, and the best business partnerships actually begin.
At CCC, you mention a move away from “sales pitches and transactional small talk.” How do you ensure each event fosters genuine, meaningful interaction?
We’re really intentional about who comes to our events. Everyone is vetted in advance so we can understand their motivations and whether the space will genuinely serve them, and vice versa. I trust my instincts when it comes to gauging whether someone is coming with a collaborative mindset or with more of a “what’s in it for me” approach. The initial filter makes a big difference.
The event format itself also helps. We usually begin with relaxed welcome drinks, followed by a guest speaker and structured group discussion before enjoying lunch. That flow encourages deeper conversation and shared reflection, rather than just surface-level exchanges. These are intimate gatherings by design, anyone there to purely pitch would feel out of place pretty quickly. The atmosphere simply doesn’t lend itself to that dynamic, and that’s very much the point.
You’ve hosted gatherings at luxury venues like Lucky Cat and NIJŪ. How important is setting and ambiance in shaping the Creative Connections experience?
Oh, it’s essential. The right setting and atmosphere will create an immediate sense of ease – when people feel relaxed, looked after, and inspired by their surroundings, they naturally open up. You don’t want poor service, bland food, or a loud, cluttered space detracting from what we’re there for. Every detail, from the layout of the room to the quality of the meal, plays a role in supporting the kind of experience we want to create.
Our events aren’t the cheapest on the market, and that’s intentional. The level of care, thoughtfulness, and subtle luxury we offer is part of what makes the community feel special, and what makes people feel valued and welcome the moment they walk through the door.
What types of professionals are drawn to CCC, and what common values do they share when it comes to collaboration and creativity?
We attract a real mix, entrepreneurs, small business owners across creative industries, and forward-thinking corporate professionals. What they all have in common is a deep passion for their work and a genuine sense of purpose behind it. They come to connect from a place of curiosity and collaboration, not competition, they’re not chasing leads, they’re looking to build meaningful relationships.
The community values open-mindedness, deeper conversation, and the possibility of what could emerge, without the pressure of expectation. They’re there for an inspiring lunch, engaging discussion, and the joy of meeting like-minded people and more often than not, that naturally leads to referrals, collaborations, or partnerships that unfold and thrive organically.
For me, it’s always a joy to see two people who met at one of our events go on to work together, support one another, or open new doors for each other because let’s be honest, you’re far more likely to recommend or reach out to someone you’ve truly connected with over lunch than someone whose business card has been gathering dust in the back of your office drawer.
As a Collaborations Agent and producer, how do your experiences outside of CCC influence how you design the flow and tone of each gathering?
I’ve worked as a conference producer for over a decade, which has given me a deep understanding of what engages an audience. That experience directly shapes how I approach CCC events, from curating topics that resonate to selecting speakers who bring not just expertise, but real presence and authenticity.
Even in more formal, corporate settings, I’ve seen how audiences respond most to honesty, vulnerability, and genuine connection on stage. That’s the tone I aim to bring to every CCC event, not just another lunch, but a roundtable filled with inspiration, relevance, and tangible takeaways people can apply from the moment they walk out the door. I treat these gatherings much like I would a well-designed conference session: content-first, insight-led, and rooted in what our audience genuinely cares about.
As a Collaborations Agent, I’m always looking for creative, mutually valuable opportunities for my clients, and I bring that same lens to CCC. I know the importance of meaningful connections, so I design the flow of each event with a clear sense of purpose: If it wouldn’t feel worthwhile for me as an attendee or collaborator; it’s not ready yet. That helps me stay grounded and intentional in creating experiences that feel valuable.
CCC champions the concept of shared growth. Can you share a recent example of how a connection made at one of your events has sparked a rewarding opportunity or partnership?
A few months ago, I attended a workshop hosted by someone from our community and was delighted to spot another familiar face, someone they’d met at our very first event. It turns out they’d stayed in touch ever since, and the attendee was now a client of the workshop host. That kind of connection, organic, lasting, and professionally rewarding, is exactly what we hope to spark, and it’s not a one-off. We’ve seen similar partnerships blossom multiple times. What’s even more meaningful is how our attendees continue to champion each other long after the event, cheering each other on via social media, making introductions, and sending referrals. It’s a true community, not just a moment spent having lunch.
There’s a quote from Isaac Newton: “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” While he was obviously referring to science, it resonates deeply with what I writness. Our attendees are the giants, generous, accomplished, and open-hearted, and they show up to help one another grow. That spirit of mutual support and collaboration is what makes these gatherings so special.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the evolution of Creative Connections, and how do you envision its impact on the creative industries long-term?
I genuinely believe our integral need for meaningful connection isn’t going anywhere, in fact, it’s only becoming more vital. My hope is that more people come to see that networking doesn’t have to be transactional or surface-level. There are amazing collectives out there that are redefining networking and what it means to connect, with depth, purpose, and real value.
Creative Connections Community won’t be for everyone, and that’s okay. But for those who are looking for genuine collaboration, shared inspiration, and a place to both give and receive support then I hope they find us.
Long term, I want CCC to be known as a catalyst, not just for new partnerships, but for personal growth, and creative breakthroughs. One conversation can change everything, and we want to keep creating the space where those conversations begin.
Creative Connections Community is more than just a network, it’s a reflection of a new era of business where elegance, intention, and genuine human connection thrive. With the next CCC lunch set to take place on 3rd September at CLAP Knightsbridge, there’s no better time to experience the art of meaningful gathering.
For more, visit www.creativeconnectionscommunity.com
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