Essence gu™
  • FASHION
    • FASHION NEWS
    • ACCESSORIES
    • FEATURES
    • FASHION WEEK
  • BEAUTY
    • SKIN
    • MAKEUP
    • HAIR
    • NAILS
  • ENTERTAINMENT
    • GU JAMS
    • FILM
    • TV
    • RADIO
    • BOOKS
    • TECH
    • SPORTS
  • WELLNESS
    • RELATIONSHIPS
    • SEX
    • HEALTH
    • FOOD
    • ASTROLOGY
  • BUSINESS
    • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
    • MONEY
    • CAREERS
    • ADVICE
  • FEEDBACK
    • NEWS
    • IDENTITY
    • ACTIVISM
    • POLITICS
    • LET’S TALK ABOUT IT
  • SHOPPING
    • FASHION
    • BEAUTY
    • TECH
    • LIFESTYLE
  • Videos
  • GU Summit 2024
  • ESSENCE.COM
  • SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Girls United Accessibility Statement

Subscribe to Trending News

Our weekly newsletter with the latest celebrity news, fashion updates, interviews and exclusive offers!

Your email is required.
Your email is in invalid format.
Confirm email is required.
Email did not match.
By clicking Subscribe Now, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. By supplying your cell phone number, you consent to receive marketing messages from ESSENCE. Please note that standard messaging rates apply from your provider.
  • FASHION
    • FASHION NEWS
    • ACCESSORIES
    • FEATURES
    • FASHION WEEK
  • BEAUTY
    • SKIN
    • MAKEUP
    • HAIR
    • NAILS
  • ENTERTAINMENT
    • GU JAMS
    • FILM
    • TV
    • RADIO
    • BOOKS
    • TECH
    • SPORTS
  • WELLNESS
    • RELATIONSHIPS
    • SEX
    • HEALTH
    • FOOD
    • ASTROLOGY
  • BUSINESS
    • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
    • MONEY
    • CAREERS
    • ADVICE
  • FEEDBACK
    • NEWS
    • IDENTITY
    • ACTIVISM
    • POLITICS
    • LET’S TALK ABOUT IT
  • SHOPPING
    • FASHION
    • BEAUTY
    • TECH
    • LIFESTYLE
  • Videos
  • GU Summit 2024
  • ESSENCE.COM
  • SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER
Home • ESSENCE Festival of Culture

How To Make Meaningful Connections At GU Creator’s House Without The Small Talk

Introverted? No problem. Here’s how to make meaningful, lasting connections at GU’s Creator’s House—without relying on small talk.
How To Make Meaningful Connections At GU Creator’s House Without The Small Talk
By Danielle Wright · Updated June 18, 2025

Creator’s House is where culture shapers, niche digital voices, and standout storytellers all come together under one roof—but let’s be honest: for introverts, events like this can feel a little overwhelming. The pressure to network, perform, and “work the room” can make even the most social person want to retreat to a corner and scroll. Here’s the good news: you don’t have to be loud, extroverted, or overly talkative to leave this space with powerful, genuine connections.

In fact, some of the most meaningful interactions come from quiet confidence, intentionality, and simply being yourself. Whether it’s your first Creator’s House or you’re returning with a little more clarity about your creative goals, these 10 tips will help you connect with purpose—no small talk necessary

1. Start with shared experiences
Instead of leading with “So, what do you do?” try, “What’s been your favorite part of the event so far?” or “Did you go to that last panel?” It’s a natural way to ease into conversation without pressure.

2. Embrace observation
You don’t have to jump into every group or convo. Sometimes just listening and making eye contact with someone across the room before approaching can help build comfort and rapport.

3. Ask creative questions
Skip the typical questions and go for: “What project are you most proud of?” or “What inspired your last post?” These open up deeper dialogue and give the other person something they want to talk about.

4. Compliment with intention
If you love someone’s outfit, energy, or creative work, say so. Compliments make great icebreakers and show that you’re paying attention beyond appearances.

5. Let your content speak for you
Sometimes, having your Instagram, TikTok, or portfolio pulled up and ready to show can do the talking. If someone asks what you do, let your work help tell the story.

6. Find a “social buddy”
If you came alone, consider latching onto someone you connect with early on. Moving through the space together makes it easier to meet others without having to initiate every conversation yourself.

7. Be the connector, not the spotlight
You don’t have to dominate the convo to be memorable. Introduce people to each other, share resources, or recommend someone’s content. Thoughtful moments go a long way.

8. Take breaks without guilt
Step outside, grab a drink, or scroll your phone for a few minutes if you’re overstimulated. You’re allowed to recharge—and you’ll likely return to the space more grounded and open.

9. Follow up online
If an in-person convo feels rushed or awkward, slide into their DMs later! A quick “Loved meeting you at Creator’s House!” message with a shared memory can deepen the connection without pressure.

10. Remember: showing up is enough
You don’t need to talk to 50 people or hand out all your business cards. Just being in the space, staying open, and letting a few genuine interactions unfold is more than enough.

Creator’s House isn’t about collecting contacts—it’s about building community. Whether you leave with one new creative collaborator, a mutual follow, or a conversation that made you feel seen, you’ve done your job. Take your time, trust your energy, and know that the connections meant for you will stick. No small talk required.

GU Jams: New Releases To Add To Your Playlist

COMPANY
INFORMATION

OUR COMPANY
CONTACT US
JOB OPPORTUNITIES

SUBSCRIBE

NEWSLETTERS
DISCOVER MORE EVENTS
Follow Us

MORE ON
ESSENCE GU™

HOME
RELATIONSHIPS
BEAUTY
HAIR
FASHION
EVENTS

ESSENCE GU™ is part of ESSENCE Ventures

ESSENCE GU™ may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice.

©2023 ESSENCE Ventures. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Essence.com Advertising Terms | Accessibility Statement