Spaces That Shape Experiences: Partners’ Favorite Venues

 

Spaces That Shape Experiences: Partners’ Favorite Venues

If you’ve worked with Partners, you’ve worked with Bridget Nahabedian. A member of the organization for a decade, Bridget is Director of Communications and Events; she shapes environments that support how people feel, connect, and learn.

“We believe in curating intentional spaces,” she says. “Because when people feel comfortable, cared for, and seen, that’s when real learning comes to life.”

Whether it’s a larger conference or an intimate workshop, Bridget and administrative assistant Amber Ortiz create experiences grounded in connection and collaboration—removing barriers to meaningful learning.

“We don’t want people to come into the room and feel closed off,” she says. “Coming into a space where you don’t know anybody, and having those little touches—they signal that it’s going to be a good day.”

Everything is intentionally designed—from the arrangement of tables and chairs to the lighting and use of Wipebooks on the walls—to create a purposeful and engaging environment. Partners ensures participants have both the essentials and thoughtful touches: Muji notebooks, nametags, candy, mints, and fidgets are always available at each table. Water, coffee, and tea are considered necessities and are provided throughout the day to keep everyone comfortable and focused.

So, where are the spaces that help make these experiences so memorable? Bridget and Amber share a few of their favorite venues across Connecticut.

Mercy by the Sea (Madison, CT)
Top of the list is Mercy by the Sea, a retreat center nestled on the shoreline. “It’s a beautiful space where you can enjoy the view of the water and take a walk on the beach,” Bridget says. “It’s peaceful, flexible, and the food is excellent, and they always take great care of us.” In addition to cozy beaches, the center features grassy outdoor areas, a mindfulness labyrinth, and cozy spaces designed to invite reflection and connection. Though Partners typically likes to keep their learning sessions centrally located within Connecticut, they feel this space is worth the drive.

New Britain Museum of American Art (New Britain, CT)
This lovely art museum in the heart of New Britain is the definition of a hidden gem! Partners has hosted recent SIIP retreats and network meetings at the museum, which also allows guests access to all the galleries. The environment is designed to inspire and make guests comfortable, whether in the larger Stanley Works Center or the intimate Landers House. “There are rotating exhibits, so the space feels different and special each time,” Amber says. Bridget adds that being surrounded by art, no matter what the topic of the event is, puts people in a creative mindset.

Wadsworth Mansion (Middletown, CT)
This elegant property offers a tranquil escape with stately ballrooms, breakout rooms, and lush gardens. “It feels like you’ve left your school district far behind and ended up at an English estate,” says Bridget. “We’ve used it for staff retreats with lawn games to encourage connection. We’ve also had a variety of other meetings there such as our  CT Superintendents’ Network and the Real Impact district teams. It’s quiet, it’s beautiful, and the staff there takes such good care of us.”

Parmelee Farm (Killingworth, CT)
During the pandemic, Partners discovered this meeting location, which features a large outdoor pavilion with scenic hiking trails and a pond. Since then, this place has been a hit with Partners’ networks, and they have continued to use it. “We love the ability to enjoy the outdoors while running a workshop or meeting in this space,” Bridget recalls. The space is large and versatile, allowing us to do fun things like bring in food trucks.”

In-District Favorites
Not every event requires a retreat space. Bridget also appreciates hosting in local school districts, including the Berlin Board of Education meeting room, which is bright, filled with natural light, and has amazing food service, and the Derby Public Schools’ Payden Field House, a modern venue with a touching backstory and ample room for movement.

These venues are more than locations—they’re part of how Partners cares for the caretakers. “We’re always thinking: how do we support people in doing their best work? That starts with the space.”

For feedback or ideas about venues, reach out to Bridget at bnahabedian@partnersforel.org.