2026 Distinguished Business Person Dinner

Members: $260.00
Non-members: $260.00
Date

Monday, October 5, 2026

Time

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location

The Pearle Hotel & Spa

Burlington

Type
In-person
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Organized by Burlington Chamber of Commerce

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About this event

Join Chamber members and guests in honouringthe 2026 Distinguished Business Person - The Ciancone Family - James, Leanne, and Aaron, Owners of Pearle Hospitality Group.The evening will feature entertainment, a gourmet meal, an opportunity to celebrate with our honourees, and an unforgettable emcee & keynote speaker! You will want to be at this highly anticipated event! Order of the Evening 5:30PM– Reception & Cocktails 6:30PM– Dinner & Live Entertainment 7:55PM– Guest Speakers 8:00PM– Distinguished Business Person Ceremony 9:00PM– Event ConcludesDress Code Attire: Formal or Business Formal (Prohibited: Denim, casual wear such as shorts, t-shirts, and overly informal attire); dress to impress, but most importantly, dress to enjoy the evening! Purchase your tickets now to reserve your seat! (You must register to attend).Early Bird pricing available until July 31, 2026 at 11:59pm. Exciting for this year: you will be able to order your meal at the table; there will be a menu provided and you will order off that menu with your server; please note that a vegetarian option will be available. We will need to know (ahead of the event) allergies and dietary restrictions.(Refunds only available untilSeptember 25, 2026).About the Honouree - the Ciancone FamilyJames, Leanne, and Aaron Ciancone are the leaders offamily-owned Pearle Hospitality, a hospitality and development company rooted in Southern Ontario and inspired by generations of entrepreneurial leadership. Building on a family legacy that dates back to1936, the Ciancone siblings have transformed Pearle Hospitality into one of the region’s most respected hospitality and destination development companies..Through thoughtful investment, restoration of historic landmarks, and innovative hospitality concepts, the Ciancone family has made a lasting contribution to the economic and cultural vitality of Burlington and the broader region..Pearle Hospitality operates a portfolio that includesaward-winning restaurants, event venues, hotels, a farm, and golf facilitiesacross Ontario, employing hundreds of people and supporting the regional tourism and hospitality economy.Special Announcement: Your Evening Could Take You AnywhereWe are proud to welcome Turkish Airlines as the Official Airline of the 2026 Distinguished Business Person Award presented by RBC.Guests attending this year’s Distinguished Business Person Dinner will have the chance to win two Business Class tickets to any destination worldwide served by Turkish Airlines.* The prize draw will take place live during the evening. *Terms, eligibility requirements and travel restrictions apply.

Location

The Pearle Hotel & Spa

3 Elizabeth St., Burlington, ON • Burlington

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Networking Tips & FAQ

How do I start a conversation with someone new?

Starting a conversation at a networking event can feel intimidating, but remember that everyone is there for the same reason. Here are some effective approaches:

  • Ask open-ended questions: "What brings you to this event?" or "What industry are you in?"
  • Find common ground: Comment on something in the environment or mention a shared experience from the event
  • Be genuine: Authentic interest in others is more memorable than a rehearsed pitch
  • Listen actively: Show genuine interest in their response and ask follow-up questions
What should I talk about during networking conversations?

Focus on building genuine connections rather than immediately selling yourself. Great conversation topics include:

  • Their work and interests: Ask about their current projects, challenges, or what excites them professionally
  • Industry trends: Discuss recent developments or changes in your shared field
  • Common experiences: Share insights about the event itself or similar networking experiences
  • Future goals: Talk about aspirations and how you might help each other achieve them
  • Avoid: Controversial topics, complaints, or dominating the conversation
How do I craft an effective elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch should be concise, memorable, and tailored to your audience. Structure it like this:

  • Who you are: Your name and current role or expertise (10 seconds)
  • What you do: A clear, jargon-free explanation of your work or value proposition (15 seconds)
  • What makes you unique: A distinctive quality, achievement, or perspective (10 seconds)
  • What you're looking for: How others can help you or how you can help them (5 seconds)

Pro tip: Practice your pitch until it sounds natural, not rehearsed. Adapt it based on who you're talking to.

How should I follow up after the event?

Following up within 24-48 hours is crucial for maintaining the connections you made. Here's how to do it effectively:

  • Personalize your message: Reference something specific from your conversation to show you were paying attention
  • Add value: Share a relevant article, introduce them to someone, or offer to help with something they mentioned
  • Be clear about next steps: Suggest a coffee meeting, phone call, or collaboration if appropriate
  • Connect on LinkedIn: Send a personalized connection request mentioning where you met
  • Keep it brief: Respect their time with a concise, friendly message

Remember: Quality over quantity. It's better to have meaningful follow-ups with a few people than generic messages to many.

How many business cards should I bring?

While business cards are still useful, the approach has evolved:

  • Bring 20-30 cards: Enough for meaningful connections without being excessive
  • Focus on quality exchanges: Only exchange cards after a genuine conversation, not as a handshake replacement
  • Use digital alternatives: Consider LinkedIn QR codes or digital business card apps for instant connection
  • Take notes: Jot down a reminder on the back of cards you receive about what you discussed
  • Follow up promptly: Use the card as a prompt to connect within 24-48 hours
What's the best way to exit a conversation gracefully?

Leaving a conversation politely is an important networking skill. Here are some effective strategies:

  • Express appreciation: "It's been great talking with you. I really enjoyed learning about..."
  • Exchange contact information: "Let's stay in touch. Can I get your card?"
  • Give a reason: "I should probably mingle a bit more" or "I see someone I've been meaning to connect with"
  • End on a positive note: "I look forward to continuing our conversation" or "Let's connect on LinkedIn"
  • Be honest but kind: If you need a break, it's okay to say you're stepping away for a moment

Remember: Most people appreciate a natural conversation flow. Aim for 5-10 minute conversations, then move on to meet others.

How can I make the most of this networking event?

Maximize your networking success with these strategies:

  • Set goals: Aim to make 3-5 meaningful connections rather than collecting dozens of cards
  • Arrive early: Smaller crowds make it easier to start conversations
  • Be present: Put away your phone and focus on the people around you
  • Ask for introductions: If you meet someone interesting, ask if they can introduce you to others
  • Take breaks: Networking can be draining—step outside or grab water when needed
  • Follow up: The real value comes from maintaining relationships after the event

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