Local Spotlight on The Nurture Network: An Innovative Network for Female Business Owners

Networking events can be intimidating. Often hosted in corporate environments with lukewarm coffee, biscuits and awkward conversation, it's sometimes not the most appealing way of getting your name out there - particularly if you're a busy parent.

However, Katie Weller who runs Chapter Thirty-Six Photography has reimagined the networking experience with The Nurture Network. Focusing on female business owners - mainly mothers - in Kent and East Sussex, her events take the formality and corporate aspect out of networking, and instead create spaces for real connections and positive empowerment.

Combining a return to nature, emphasis on wellbeing and shared experiences, The Nurture Network is a welcoming, friendly group for mums who are juggling building a business around childcare, nap times and the bedtime routine. Katie tells us more about the network and what attendees can expect from events...

How would you describe the Nurture Network?

The Nurture Network is a space for business owning women to find community with others in a much more relaxed way than a lot of traditional networking opportunities. 

What was your inspiration for setting it up?

I have two small businesses and two small children and it’s been really challenging attempting to nurture both my children and my growing businesses.

I kept getting asked if I did networking, and the idea of it has never really appealed to me - I felt like I wouldn’t meet people I could relate to. I can really see the benefits of it though, so I decided to set up the kind of group where I would feel comfortable. 

What can female business owners expect from the events?

A warm, friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere to take some time out whilst getting to know others. 

How do the Nurture Network gatherings differ from traditional networking events?

We differ from other groups in a number of ways, I would say the biggest difference is the location, which is mainly in private woodland, using nature to set a really relaxed atmosphere. We also focus on wellness and bring in experts to talk on their wellness technique. 

What kind of workshops have featured at previous events and where do their tend to take place?

We have previously had flower crown making, sound healing, overcoming overwhelm, EFT and intuitive psychology. Aside from a few Winter indoor events, we mostly meet outside.

Nature and being outside play a big part of the network - what do you think these elements bring to the events?

There’s something about being in the woods that I think changes how people behave. I’ve always found the atmosphere to be incredibly relaxed and a safe space for sharing. I think forest bathing can have wonderful benefits, so just the backdrop of the meeting being the sound of the woodland sets the tone for relaxation. 

Wellbeing is also at the forefront and central to the initiative. Why was this so important for you to incorporate?

I struggled with my mental health following having my children and I’ve found it really interesting looking into different wellness techniques and trying new things to help calm my mind. Mothers rarely take time for themselves so its nice to combine taking this time out with meeting new people who also need a morning off!

How has running the group inspired and motivated you when it comes to your own business?

Running this group has introduced me to so many amazing business women who inspire me everyday. We all share ideas, help each other out and celebrate each other's wins. The community has really enriched my life.

What are your favourite local businesses / hidden gems in Kent?

This has to be Wild & Free Nature Crafts! Alex is Forest School trained and creates amazing events in the woods (including ours!) for children and adults including birthday parties, stay & plays, workshops and women's wellbeing sessions. She creates a space for people to take time out and just be which I think is really special!

How can we find out more about the Nurture Network and upcoming events?

By following the Instagram account @nurturenetworkevents, you’ll always be up to date on the latest events. 

Tickets for the next event (taking place on Sunday 11th January 2026) are available here - https://www.tickettailor.com/events/chapterthirtysix/1941898