Lately, I’ve realized how much I miss sitting across from other women — coffee in hand, stories flowing, laughter bubbling up without a screen between us. It’s in those moments, eye to eye, that we feel seen, heard, and reminded that we’re not walking this chapter alone.

For many of us in midlife and beyond, life is full of transitions. Careers shift, family roles evolve, health becomes more present in our minds, and questions about “what’s next?” echo more loudly than they once did. These changes are real. And yet, they don’t mean we shrink back. They mean we gather our courage, claim our radiance, and continue to grow into the women we’re becoming.

One of the best ways I know to do that. Connection. Real, in-person, heart-to-heart connection.

That’s why I’ve decided to start something simple: coffee dates.

Why a Coffee Date?

Because conversation is powerful. Because sometimes, we don’t need a grand event or a perfect plan. We just need a table, a warm cup, and a willingness to share where we are right now.

And frankly — a coffee date feels more nourishing than the old default of “meeting for a glass of wine.” For many women in midlife, alcohol doesn’t help with hormonal fluctuations or sleep. Coffee (or tea or even sparkling water) feels like a more supportive way to connect, without the fog the next day.

A Wider Movement

This past weekend, The Toronto Star featured an article on the growing trend of intentional friendship groups across North America. Many of these women’s social circles are thriving here in the GTA — especially for women in their 20s and 30s — with activities like yoga, pottery, and group classes.

I love that energy, but I also know that women 50+ want social connection too. Our version might look different. We may not be rolling out yoga mats or signing up for ceramics. But we still want — and need — to meet face to face, to spark conversation, and to feel the energy that only comes when we gather in person.

Meeting Women Where They Are

Midlife is not one-size-fits-all. Some of us are caring for aging parents, others are welcoming grandchildren. Some are navigating health shifts, while others are rediscovering passions put aside years ago.

What unites us is the need for spaces where:

• We don’t have to explain ourselves. Our lived experience is already understood.
• We can talk about the real stuff. Hormones, sleep, energy, and identity shifts — without stigma.
• We’re celebrated for who we are now. Not compared to our younger selves but honoured for the wisdom and courage that only time can bring.
• We get to play again. Connection can feel light, joyful, even adventurous — not always serious or “self-improving.”

The Charlotte Affects has been an advocate for pro-age living since 2018. From the beginning, my work has circled back to one truth: women flourish when they connect — when stories are shared, sparks are lit, and we see ourselves reflected in one another.

The Invitation

On Sept 23rd at 10am, I’ll be at The Saltbox Café in Aurora — a spot I’ve never tried but have been curious about. And I’d love you to join me. This isn’t a workshop, a program, or anything formal. It’s simply an open invitation: come as you are, bring your stories, and let’s discover something new together.

I’ll have a few little tools to share, but mostly, this is about women connecting with women. A chance to walk away feeling lighter, seen, and maybe even inspired.