work with me.

My work examines connection and what binds us together; I make places for us to sit with questions that make us feel alive. I’m passionate about exploring ways to help us gather and reach for one another through —

group facilitation, speaking engagements & conversations.

I love to talk about affirming the importance of connection, living a whole-hearted existence, embracing our humanness, the imperative nature of creativity, and how we define ourselves independent of job titles.

I can curate custom guided conversations for your group, facilitate your panel, speak on community & connection, and host your brand’s event that fosters connection between all participants.

Available for in-person and virtual appearances.

dinner with strangers.

Dinner With Strangers is a monthly in-person dinner inviting people to ditch the small talk and instead ask good, gutsy questions. Join me and twelve other strangers for dinner - with the only rule being no work talk, I’ll guide us through the questions that get us talking about where we’re at, what we’re learning, and what we care about. Get on the list to find out about the next one here.

Interested in me hosting Dinner With Strangers for your business, your group of friends, or in your city? I’d love to sit down at your table! Invite me here.

Jess Janz, Trendy Loft, Host, Facilitator, Speaking Events, Workshops

workshops & retreats.

I host multiple monthly workshops like Poetry Club and In Good Company, and seasonal 4-week writing workshops to develop your writing practice and experience community in writing.

I love being a part of workshops and retreats that centre around community, connection, and creating a gentler world.

kind words.

  • from kara

    “Attending Dinner With Strangers was a delightful experience! Jess seamlessly orchestrated a dinner with strangers that exceeded my expectations, creating an atmosphere of warmth and connection. It was a wonderful evening filled with meaningful conversations and I would highly recommend that you try it for yourself.”

  • from tate

    “Whether you've had a writing practice for one month or 10 years, you will find an affirming and inspiring community with Jess and your fellow writers.

    Fear not — Jess and your peers are dancing with discomfort and vulnerability right along with you. My imagination bloomed, I found focus in my writing, and I am more confident about my work. I am so grateful to Jess and my wonderful cohort."

  • from krish

    “Dinner With Strangers is a sacred space of connection. Jess has created an incredibly welcoming environment for introverts & extroverts alike. All you need to do is show up and be yourself! You won’t regret it.”

  • from nora

    “I think it's safe to say that Dinner With Strangers changed my life in ways that I don't even know yet. What a privilege it was to share such a beautiful and safe space with strangers that have now become friends.”

  • from alora

    “From the moment you step into the space you're immediately guided throughout the evening. I loved the small details that made the night special, from someone taking your coat and handing you a cocktail on arrival, to the well-thought-out question prompts, to the name cards on the table…it made for such a smooth and wonderful evening. Jess was an amazing host, this is such a special experience that I recommend anyone and everyone to participate in at least once!”

  • from mel

    “Jess brings her established artistic knowledge and love to the group fostering deep inspiration, encouragement, and community. Her workshop is the most authentic form of play and creative collaboration resulting in attendees counting down the days to carve out such meaningful artistic time for themselves.”

  • from imogene

    “A truly amazing concept and platform where Jess allows you to completely disarm yourself amongst some fantastic humans and reminds you that true connection really does lie in encouraging others to be vulnerable.”

  • from christie

    “Jess is an excellent mentor who is attentive and thoughtful with her feedback. She held space for all of us to share our most tender, messy writings with each other without fear. She gathered thematic readings and created prompts for each session that built upon each other throughout the workshop.

    I loved connecting with other writers in an intimate space of collective creativity, and nurturing my withered creative spirit back to life.”