Let’s face it: networking is hard. Striking up conversations with total strangers can be uncomfortable. But, if you’ve ever been to an industry-specific networking event, then you know that it always helps to have something in common with the other folks in the room.

That’s why the monthly Green Business Networking event in Santa Monica is such a great place for the shy among us to break out of our shells and meet like-minded people.

Designed to serve the Los Angeles area’s ever-growing green business community, GBN provides a forum for connecting the owners and decision-makers of socially- and environmentally-conscious businesses. Like another well-known event, Green Drinks, GBN attracts a wide variety of people from a range of industries. At recent events I’ve met people from almost every industry imaginable, including real estate, entertainment, advertising/marketing, energy, printing, hospitality, event planning…the list goes on and on, which always makes me wonder who I might meet next.

Having recently celebrated its one-year anniversary, GBN meets the second Tuesday of every month (this month’s GBN falls on May 8th) from 6-9pm. The event is hosted by several local business people who are active in the green business world in industries ranging from organic food to socially responsible investing. The hosts themselves are fun to talk to, and they also go out of their way to help connect people and make everyone feel comfortable – signs of expert networkers!

Of course, it’s easy to feel comfortable at the Ambrose Hotel, where GBN is held. As Santa Monica's only award-winning, sustainable hotel, it is a fitting locale for the green community. And though there is a $10 entry fee for the event, it gains you access to the wine bar, which features tasty organic wine along with organic snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Maybe networking isn’t so hard after all.

For more information, email greenbusinessnetworking@gmail.com.