There’s something powerful about a room full of people being honest, not just about what they do, but about who they are.
That’s the space we’re aiming to create on Thursday 26 June at Jennymount Business Park for our next event: Networking With Impact: Presenting The Real You
This isn’t another surface-level conversation about what to wear or how to write a pitch. It’s a deep dive into the often uncomfortable, but incredibly freeing, territory of personal presence and professional authenticity.
And let’s be honest. Most of us, at some point, have struggled with how we show up.
Whether it’s second-guessing how we look, fumbling through that dreaded “what do you do?” question, or wondering if our image really matches our message, these are challenges I hear every week from the business owners and professionals I mentor, train and work alongside.
So when I started chatting to Mary McGuigan 🌈 of Corporate & Creative Image about collaborating on an event, we knew the topic needed to go beyond the usual personal brand clichés.
Because showing up “authentically” isn’t just about dressing well or having a polished elevator pitch. It’s about alignment.
It’s about being comfortable enough in yourself – your voice, your values, your style. Having the ability to connect with others in a way that’s clear, confident and real.
Why this matters more than ever
In a world of digital noise, rapid AI evolution, and perfectly curated online personas, trust is one of the hardest things to earn…and the easiest to lose.
As a communications and business strategist, I’ve seen how quickly audiences disengage when they sense inauthenticity. But I’ve also seen how showing up with clarity, confidence and consistency can completely transform how someone’s message is received.
That’s exactly what this event is about.
Mary will be sharing insights from her work helping professionals align their inner confidence with their outward presence through personal styling, colour analysis, and mindset tools that don’t just change how you look, but how you feel.
Her work is subtle but powerful. It’s not about image for image’s sake, it’s about reclaiming the way you want to be seen and taking ownership of your narrative.
This is for you if…
You’re not quite sure how to explain what you do. You’ve outgrown how you present yourself and don’t know what’s next. You’ve never really felt comfortable “playing the part” in business. Or you’re ready to reconnect with the real you—and build better relationships in the process.
We’ll cover things like:
- How to align your personal brand with your business goals
- Why presence matters more than polish
- The biggest mistakes people make trying to “look the part”
- And how to express what you do in a way that actually connects
There’ll be no jargon, no judgement, and no pressure to perform. Just honest conversation, practical tools, and a chance to network with people who get it.
Why I’m passionate about this topic
For years, I wore different hats – showbiz journalist, PR consultant, strategist, speaker, mentor. And for a long time, I thought I had to package those things separately to be taken seriously.
But I’ve learned that people don’t buy from personas, they buy from people. And the more I’ve leaned into my own voice, story and truth, the stronger my business relationships have become.
If you’re in that space of wanting to evolve how you show up, this event will give you the tools (and the community) to do just that.
You’ll also get the opportunity to introduce yourself to the room using a simple, supportive format. And if that feels daunting, no worries – you can absolutely just listen, learn and connect on your own terms.
🔗 Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment HERE
Event Details
🗓 Thursday 26 June
📍 Jennymount Business Park, North Belfast
🕙 10am-12pm
Guest Speaker: Mary McGuigan – Founder, Corporate & Creative Image Professional stylist, self-image coach and confidence-builder
Host: Tina Calder – Founder, Excalibur Press, Entrepreneur & Strategist
This event is open to all – whether you’re running a business, leading a team, starting a new venture, or simply exploring how to feel more confident in your skin.
We’re keeping things relaxed, supportive and practical, and we’d love to see you there.
🔗 Spaces are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment HERE