Summer is here and Long Beach is more vibrant than ever.

We’re here, we’re queer, we’re not going anywhere! Ok maybe that rhymed a little more in my head. Either way… Pride has arrived 💅🏻!

I list Events On Cue as a queer-owned business, which it is. But I want to call out that I identify as bisexual. IYKYK - bi erasure is still very much alive and well. I was 17 when I realized I was bi and it was during the era of “I Kissed A Girl.” Quite literally within a year of that song’s release! Over the years there have been many stigma’s attached to the term Bisexual. I’m not going to get into the nuanced history. I just want to validate the bisexual experience for those out there that may also identify as Bi, may also have complicated feelings. I see you and you belong.

In my previous theatre career as a Stage Manager, I often attended networking events. At the time I was young in my career and truly didn’t go to them seeking work, I just wanted a space to enjoy the company of others who were going through similar experience to my own.

When I started this business I immediately put myself out there with a similar intention. I knew I wanted to focus on local groups as well as event-specific circles to become part of a community. I don’t believe in gatekeeping and so this month I’m sharing some of my favorite groups and/or reoccurring networking opportunities!

LBGLCC

Did you know there’s a queer Chamber of Commerce in Long Beach?! The LBGLCC, a branch of the NGLCC, hosts monthly mixers and educational events for local professionals. While it is a membership-based organization, you don’t need to be a member to attend most events. This month they partnered with Hamburger Mary’s to raise funds for the chamber.

OCQCC

This is a NEW queer chamber down in OC - OCQCC (Orange County Queer Chamber of Commerce)! I haven’t been able to attend their events yet but I’m very excited for July’s Big Gay Picnic. We just became an official member this month 😉.

BOSS

BOSS or Business Owners Sisterhood Social is sponsored by the Long Beach Women’s Business Council. This business council is a part of the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce. Each month they host a gathering at The Wicked Wolf centered around a topic, led by subject-matter experts. These events are free and you can RSVP on the LB Chamber website. They are switching to a monthly cadence of first Thursdays starting July 2nd.

The LBYP

Similar to the Women’s Business Council, the Long Beach Young Professionals is another business council of the LB Chamber. They host vibrant monthly mixers designed for those greener in their career, to the area, or maybe pivoting in their career. This month’s mixer was held at the stunning Fairmont Breakers Long Beach. I wish I had taken photos!

OCWP

We touched on this group last month, but the OCWP (Orange County Wedding Professionals) is a group of event planners, venues and vendors in OC. It’s actually a Facebook group, but they host periodic mixers that are epic, interactive and similar to an expo where you can sample the latest and greatest offerings within the event community. If you’re in that space, 10/10 would recommend!

Fête

The mixer I look forward to the most, Fête is a membership-based organization similar to the OCWP, but based in LA. Their last mixer was at The Grammy Museum 😍.

Female Founders’ Night @ Benny Boy

This is a quarterly event at Benny Boy Brewing & Cider House. I’ve only been to (2) but I’ve loved them each time! The night kicks-off slow with some mingling, followed by a cider and brewery tour. After the tour, there are four guest panelists who are interviewed by the Benny’s co-founder followed by some more time for getting to know your neighbors. I recommend subscribing to their newsletter and/or setting IG alerts to be notified of future events.

If you have any favorite networking mixers across LA, LBC, or OC, message me at [email protected].

I’m closing off our books for the month of July to head back to the east coast. During this time we’ll remaining available to current and potential clients. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any event planning needs!

I’m still on the lookout for a divorce client 👀. If you have someone in your life ready to celebrate this next chapter, I’m currently offering my referral rate of 10% off their first service and 10% off your next service! You don’t need to be a previous client to cash in on this limited time offer* 😉.

*Valid for divorce party clients, only. Offer expires 7/31/2026.

Josie V creates images with edge, depth, and personality, turning ordinary sessions into visual stories that stand out. Whether the goal is a striking brand campaign, an unforgettable event, or a portrait that actually looks like you, Josie V Photography delivers work that's as fearless as the people and moments it captures. Services include branding, lifestyle, event, portrait, and family photography.

For families on the journey of trying to conceive, Ray also offers at-home assisted insemination services. Long Beach Midwife is a certified LGBTQ+- owned business. As a nonbinary healthcare provider, Ray’s practice is queer-centered. They serve all families regardless of identity, however, and strive to ensure that all families have access to safe, affirming, high quality health care.

We’re inspired by the rich textures and style this venue offers. It’s the perfect setting for a corporate retreat or epic retirement party.

Picture it: Dressed in your finest, you enter the space welcomed by a live jazz singer and custom cocktails or mocktails. As you navigate the space, you’re offered tray-passed o'dourves as you take in the glam of a 1960s cocktail party and fully immerse yourself into the experience.

The Linden Club offers many spaces to play with, adorned with beautiful fixtures and built-in bars. We love the large capacity - the Uptown Ballroom is a great space to gather while the other rooms are ready for you to create memories through thoughtful guest experiences.

Interested in using The Linden Club for an upcoming event? Reach us at [email protected] or DM us on Instagram at EventsOnCue_LBC!

Thank you for reading & subscribing!

Michelle Prudente
Founder & CEO, Events On Cue

P.S.

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