We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tess Hugoboom. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tess below.

Alright, Tess thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

Nash Girls Connect was established to address the fundamental need for connection that many individuals, including myself, have longed for, particularly since relocating to a new city a decade ago. As adults, it can be challenging to forge new friendships, especially in an unfamiliar environment. While in school, social connections are somewhat inherent, but when embarking on a professional journey and relocating, we often find ourselves starting from scratch. This experience can be daunting, overwhelming, and incredibly isolating.

The onset of the Covid pandemic further exacerbated these challenges, affecting even the most socially adept among us. Emerging from this period of isolation, we have inadvertently isolated ourselves further, as our natural communication and social skills have diminished. We have become accustomed to the comfort of our homes and the allure of staying in, which, while enjoyable, becomes problematic when it hinders us from venturing out and connecting with others. Genuine, in-person connections are essential for our well-being. Many of us yearn for this type of connection, and while online platforms have provided some solace, they have also intensified feelings of isolation and loneliness, even leading to depression.

The reason behind this is that online connections often revolve around curated, idealized versions of ourselves, which are far from reality. The constant comparison to others has only served to deepen feelings of inadequacy. What we truly need is genuine, unfiltered, in-person connection, where we can be our authentic selves without fear of judgment. This is precisely why I created Nash Girls Connect – to provide a safe and transparent space for women, particularly those new to the city, to establish real connections.

I take great pride in guiding women through this process, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported. Our events, ranging from large-scale speed friending gatherings with up to 140 participants to more intimate gatherings with just a handful of women, are designed to meet individuals where they are in their journey. Our ultimate goal is to create a community where women can belong and be their true selves. Looking ahead to 2024, we are committed to fostering even greater authenticity. We will be hosting smaller, more intimate events, such as our recent pink retreat, to provide an environment where women can feel at ease and forge genuine connections.

I am incredibly excited about the future of Nash Girls Connect and the opportunities it holds for women seeking meaningful connections.

Tess, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have a background in coaching and public speaking, with a primary focus on empowering women to recognize their worth and value. This passion led me to establish a non-profit organization called @glamgirls.inc, where we assist women in embracing their personal stories and using them as inspiration to persevere.

I strongly believe that our work should align with our purpose, as each of us has a unique calling, and it is our responsibility to shine that light in the world. Through my work, I have discovered that it has not only allowed me to authentically embrace myself but through giving of myself in this way I feel called by with my Creator, I continue to heal, grow and evolve as His Light that shines.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Focus on giving of over delivering in your value and helping others get what they want first.

Any advice for managing a team?

Listen to everyone and let everyone feel heard and seen, no matter the position in the company. Everyone needs this, it’s a level of human dignity and feeling valued. When someone feels seen, heard, and valued you will have a sense of loyalty and trust with them forever – which is EVERYTHING in business.

Contact Info:

• Website: nashgirlsconnect.com
• Instagram: @nashgirlsconnect