Sure thing. Here’s a quick playbook to keep the focus sharp and the connections valuable: 1. **Know the Guest List** – pull the attendee spreadsheet, highlight names you want to target, and map out their roles. 2. **Elevator Pitch Ready** – craft a 30‑second intro that says who you are, what you do, and the one thing you’re looking for. Keep it concise, repeat it until it’s natural. 3. **Dress the Part** – fit the event’s dress code, but keep it polished, not flashy. First impression matters. 4. **Arrival Timing** – be there early enough to greet the host and key people, but not too early that you’re stuck in the foyer. 5. **Conversation Starters** – ask about their role, recent projects, or something specific you know about them. People like to talk about what they do. 6. **Listen More Than You Speak** – take notes mentally (or on a tiny card) on their pain points and goals. That’s the data you’ll use later. 7. **Exchange Contact Info Strategically** – hand over your card or digital contact only after you’ve had a substantive exchange, not just handing out a stack. 8. **Follow‑Up Promptly** – within 24 hours, send a personalized email referencing something you discussed. Add a value proposition or an invitation to a follow‑up coffee. 9. **Track Connections** – use a CRM or simple spreadsheet to log each contact, the conversation points, and next steps. 10. **Plan for “The Velvet Moon” Momentum** – set a goal: one new partnership, one lead, or one piece of inside info. Keep the night focused on that outcome. Follow those steps, stay laser‑focused, and you’ll come out of the gala with real, actionable connections. Good luck.