This blog article was written by Outsiders regular, and founder of The Edinburgh Canapé Company, Maria Harper. Maria shares how The Outsiders has helped her develop lasting friendships that have impacted her life as a solopreneur and parent.
The Outsiders is one the best things that happened to me and my wellbeing. I joined for the first time at the end of the summer last year and I hardly missed any of the other monthly events because I simply really look forward to them. The last Friday of the month is sacred now.
These walks are a total tonic, every walk I come back home buzzing and full of joy.
We all know how important it is for us to spend time in nature and to walk in the fresh air. But there is something very special about walking with others and intentionally connect with those around you. No wonder the Ancient Greeks had their philosophical conversations while walking in the Agora, they believed ideas tend to flow better while in motion.
So picture this: a gorgeous natural environment in your very city (which you never go because you are too busy ‘being busy’ with your work); a group of entrepreneurs and business owners just like yourself gather together in motion, walking surrounded by trees, rivers, bird song.
And there’s no agenda or etiquette, we are all just people meeting each other, getting to know our businesses and lives in the most chill and relaxed manner. And that is where the magic happens: collaborations, advice, skills exchange and friendships sprout like buttercups.
It only took two of these walks for me to feel a sense of belonging, this was a true community spirit experience. I felt trusted, welcomed and included and as a result, I felt compelled to be there for others.
This group is incredibly inclusive: children and dogs are seen regularly, and it’s diverse: people from all ages, backgrounds, beliefs and nationalities are present. I am now part of something that adds value to my life and the lives of others around me.
And those around me become not only a trusted community but some of them have become true friends.
The lovely Karen Bennett (a fabulous graphic designer) and I met last summer for the first time at a stiff and awkward networking event but then we saw each other again at the Outsiders and very quickly we became friends.
I believe it was the Outsiders vibe that made this happened. It was easy to talk to each other and share commonalities, it felt very real and non-judgmental, we created a strong connection between us.
As women getting closer to our 50’s we know how hard it is to make new meaningful friendships. Now we travel together to the walks and we support each other, in fact Karen is my number one cheerleader because she understands what it is to run your own business all by yourself.
Our friendship is helping us navigate how to run a business while being mothers of school-age children. We have each other’s back.
All of this of course would not be possible without the heart of the Outsiders, Katie Paterson. Her joy is contagious, and wherever she is there is a bit more sunshine for those around her.
Thanks, Katie, for your lightbulb moment when you created this gorgeous community!
Maria Harper
The Edinburgh Canapé Company
Leave a Reply