Like it or not, a big part of being successful in any industry comes down to having the right connections. Whether you’re just starting out professionally or a seasoned business vet, building meaningful relationships with prominent figures in your community is important. The knowledge exchanged and experience gained from rubbing shoulders with local movers and shakers is invaluable. If you want to connect with other professionals in the community, here are the networking events that you should be at. 

Sips at the Station

Every third Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Simply Savannah Marketing hosts Sips at the Station, a casual networking event held monthly at Ardsley Station. This is a laid-back social that draws in a fun, eclectic crowd. $10 will get you in and includes a drink ticket and delicious hors d’oeuvres courtesy of Ardsley Station. You can also buy raffle tickets for some stellar prizes. Each month, all proceeds benefit a local nonprofit, so you can feel good about attending Sips at the Station. 

Downtown Business Association Luncheon

The Savannah Downtown Business Association is a local nonprofit comprised of business owners, leaders and other parties collaborating to ensure a vibrant downtown scene. They host a monthly networking luncheon every second Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Morris Center. At $30 for members and $40 for non-members, this event is a little more pricey, but it puts you in the room with some of Savannah’s best and brightest. 

Tourism Leadership Council Connection Luncheon

Promoting Savannah as a premier travel destination, the Tourism Leadership Council holds a monthly connection luncheon every third Thursday at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon is held at a different location each month and features a keynote speaker who addresses a topic of interest to the local business community. It’s $30 for members and $40 for non-members and is regularly attended by business executives, politicians and other powerful community leaders. 

South of Derenne Association Networking Luncheon

SODA hosts a networking luncheon every first Wednesday of the month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Barnes Restaurant. It’s $17 flat and there is no membership fee. All are welcome. It’s a great time to meet with other professionals and enjoy some great Southern comfort food. There’s usually a speaker and raffle prizes as well. 

Buy Local Luncheon

Formed in 1999, Buy Local is all about supporting Savannah businesses to maximize revenues and sustain a healthy economy. They host a monthly luncheon every fourth Thursday at 11 a.m. at various locations. The luncheon is $25 for members and $40 for non-members. Buy Local also hosts a periodic happy hour and an  early edition morning networking event, so there are plenty of opportunities to make connections in the community.