Recently, I had the joy of celebrating a big milestone with one of our long-time clients. It was their 10-year business anniversary. We have been working together for nine of those years, so joining in their celebration felt extra special.
Walking into the party, I wasn’t sure if I would recognize them right away. After all, our entire relationship had been built through Zoom calls and emails. But as soon as we greeted each other, suddenly everything felt completely natural. It was such a wonderful reminder of why in-person connections still matter in business relationships, even when most of the work happens online.
Seeing Their World Up Close
After mingling with the other guests for a while, I had the chance to tour their office for the very first time. I’d seen parts of it before, framed neatly in a Zoom background, but stepping inside was a completely different experience.
They are a construction company, and their office was a true showcase of their talent. Every feature reflected the skill and care they bring to their work; the finishes, the layout, even the smallest details. I had only ever caught glimpses of it on a screen, but standing there in person, the pride and craftsmanship were unmistakable.
I always knew they were skilled craftsmen, but seeing their office in real life revealed the full extent of their talent and artistry. I left not only with deep admiration for all they had built with their own hands, but also with a sense of pride to be connected with them and their journey.
Why In-Person Matters
Meeting in person after so many years added a new layer to our relationship. Sitting together, sharing stories, the quick hugs, and walking through the space they had built with their own hands gave me a deeper appreciation for who they are, not just as business owners, but as people.
It’s easy to underestimate the power of in-person connection when technology makes working virtually so seamless. But moments like these remind me that nothing replaces standing side by side, seeing each other’s worlds, and celebrating milestones together.
For me, being part of their 10-year celebration wasn’t just about marking their success; it was about honoring the trust, collaboration, and friendship that have grown over nearly a decade of working together. And that is something I will always treasure.
After nine years of working together virtually, celebrating this milestone in person reminded me of an important truth: in business, as in life, it’s the human connections that leave the most lasting impact.