Cover Image for The Connection Lab
Cover Image for The Connection Lab
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The Connection Lab

Hosted by Heather Atles
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About Event

The Connection Lab is a guided afternoon for singles — fun, low-pressure, a little surprising. You'll do some partnered exercises, meet a small group of genuinely interesting people, and practice the thing the apps were supposed to lead to: actual presence with another human being.

Let's be real. App dating is exhausting. All that effort, all that scrolling and swiping, yet somehow you still end up sitting across from a stranger performing your highlight reel and calling it a date. It's a lot of effort for very little actual connection.

This is the alternative.

Some moments will make you laugh. Some will catch you off guard in the best way. You'll leave having actually talked to people. You'll feel connected. Maybe exchanged numbers with one or two people.

You might find a spark. You might find a new friend. Either way, you'll remember what it feels like when connection is this natural.

This is for you if you're single, a little over the apps, and curious what happens when meeting people is actually fun.

All genders, orientations, and expressions welcome. Queer-affirming, consent-forward, no weird vibes.

***There's an optional hour at the end (5-6pm) to hang out, have some snacks, and socialize with your new connections.

"This was wonderful and I'd definitely come again!" -P.L. (participant)

"Probably one of the best setups I've seen ... so kudos to creating such a wonderful setup and container" D.R. (participant)

About Your Guide: Meet Heather

I've spent 20+ years helping people connect — for real, in their bodies, in real time. I use the Somatica™ Method, as well as a number of other modalities, and I run a pretty good room. You'll feel it when you walk in.

"I was suprised by how quickly I warmed up to people and felt truly connected to them." --R.D. (participant)

"Wow, that really boosted my confidence. It was so easy to talk to people." --S.M. (participant)

Is This for Me?

This might be a fit if you:
• Feel tired of dating apps
• Value emotional intelligence and consent
• Are open to structured social experiences

This might not be a fit if you:
• Want traditional speed dating
• Prefer unstructured mingling
• Feel uncomfortable with light, consent-based partner exercises

Spots are intentionally limited to keep the space intimate and balanced.

Agenda

2:45 PM Doors Open

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Workshop

3:15 PM No Late Entry/No Refund

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Optional Social Hour with Snacks & Drinks!

FAQs

What is the Connection Lab?

The Connection Lab is a 2-hour, guided in-person experience where singles explore authentic connection in a safe, playful, and grounded environment. It's not a mixer or speed dating — it's something deeper.

Is this a dating event?

Not exactly. While it’s designed for singles open to connection, the focus is on presence, honesty, and emotional attunement, not matching or romance. That said, sparks do happen — and many people leave with a new sense of relational confidence or clarity.

Who is this for?

This space is for adults who are: -Single and open to meeting others -Tired of dating apps or superficial interactions -Interested in authentic, in-person connection -Curious about intimacy, vulnerability, and communication -Open to light facilitation and new experiences -All genders, orientations

Is this LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Yes — wholeheartedly. This is a queer-affirming, body-positive, and inclusive space. You are welcome exactly as you are.

Will I have to partner with someone of a specific gender?

No. All partnering is gender-neutral. You're encouraged to be open and curious with everyone — regardless of gender identity, orientation, or attraction — in the spirit of human-to-human connection.

I’m nervous introverted shy. Is this for me?

Absolutely. You’ll be gently guided through the experience with full permission to honor your own pace and boundaries. Everything is opt-in. Many introverts have said this was their favorite way to meet new people.

What if I don’t want to do something?

Consent is central to everything we do. You are always in choice — you're encouraged to say no, opt out, or adjust any invitation to fit your comfort. And yes, that will be respected and celebrated.

Do I need any experience?

Nope! No prior experience with relational work, somatics, or events like this is needed. Just bring your curiosity and willingness to show up authentically.

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothes you can sit, move, and relax in. Think cozy layers, soft pants, no shoes inside the space. Come as you are!

What’s the schedule?

Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to settle in. Doors close shortly after the start time (no late entry). The full workshop experience is 2-hours, with optional social hour at the end.

What’s the refund policy?

Tickets are non-refundable but transferrable — you can gift or sell your spot to someone else. If the event is canceled or rescheduled, you'll receive a full refund.

Still have questions?

Reach out to hello@heatheratles.com — I'm happy to help!

Location
Mission Yoga
2415 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA
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