business happenings.

Your Place to Work, Celebrate, and Connect – The NTx Way!

September 11, 2025

NTx Business Network Is THE NEW Way To Connect in St. Charles County.

NTx is a group of entrepreneurs and business professionals who believe in the power of connection. Members meet each month to attend fun events such as; networking lunches, after-hours events, coffee meetups, and seminars. These gatherings are designed to help you build meaningful relationships, share knowledge, and find new opportunities to grow your business.

As a member, you’ll be part of a supportive community that actively refers customers and vendors to one another. Beyond our in-person events, we offer multiple ways to increase your business’s visibility and reach:

Online Directory: You’ll get a listing in our online business directory, making it easy for other members and the public to find and connect with you.
Marketing & Messaging Opportunities: Promote your business through various channels, including digital displays in the New Town neighborhood, advertising and articles in our monthly NTx Connect Magazine, and sponsorship opportunities for both our business and community events.

We believe every moment deserves the right space, whether it’s a wedding, baby shower, business pitch, or simply a productive workday. We’re more than a building with desks and rooms; we’re a community hub where residents, small business owners, and entrepreneurs can work, celebrate, and connect in meaningful ways.

Celebrate at The Commons

Life is full of milestones, and The Commons provides the perfect backdrop for them all. If you’re looking for a wedding venue in North St. Charles, our versatile event space can be transformed into an unforgettable setting for your big day. Planning a baby shower? Our warm, welcoming atmosphere makes The Commons a top baby shower venue designed to bring family and friends together in comfort and style.

With flexible layouts and modern amenities, our event space in St. Charles, MO adapts to your celebration whether you’re hosting dozens of guests or just an intimate gathering such as a wedding.

More Than an Event Venue

Celebrations aren’t limited to life milestones, they’re also about personal victories, daily achievements, and professional progress. That’s why The Commons is also home to entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals who need flexible and affordable space to thrive.

Coworking Space in St. Charles: Whether you need a quiet desk for a few hours or a regular spot or office to grow your business, our coworking space fosters productivity and creativity.
Meeting Rooms: Professional, private, and designed to impress our meeting rooms make it easy to collaborate, host clients, or brainstorm with your team.
Virtual Office (VO): Need a professional business address without the overhead? Our VO offerings provide flexibility for remote professionals and startups who want to establish credibility and keep costs down.

Supporting Local Entrepreneurs

The Commons has always been about more than just space, it’s about local entrepreneur support. Through NTx Connect, we’ve created a network where small business owners can collaborate, grow, and find the resources they need. From networking lunches to after-hours socials, our events are designed to help you build meaningful connections and take your business further.

As we transition from HUB to NTx Connect, our focus is clear: building a stronger community of support for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and local businesses right here in North St. Charles.

Why Membership Matters

This October, we’re launching a membership drive to grow our NTx community. Membership at NTx Connect means more than access to space, it’s about:

Networking with like-minded professionals.
Discounts on meeting and event space.
Opportunities to collaborate and showcase your business.
Being part of a thriving local business hub.

If you’ve been curious about coworking, need a professional venue for an event, or just want to connect with other local entrepreneurs, now is the time to join.

Back to You

Whether you’re planning your wedding, attending a Zumba class, prepping for a client meeting, or simply seeking a quiet space to focus, NTx and The Commons in North St. Charles County is your place to celebrate, work, and connect.

If you’re ready to expand your reach and build new connections, you can Become a NTx Member

Would love to show you around and meet in person, please feel free to schedule a Tour. I look forward to meeting in person, introducing you to others and seeing how both NTxConnect and The Commons can help your business. Call us at: (636) 493-0307

Back to School, Back to Work, Back to You

September 2, 2025

Finding Your Fall Reset

Summer is winding down, and with it comes the shift back into routine — classrooms are filling, offices are buzzing, and gyms are welcoming members ready to recommit. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a professional, this season offers the perfect chance to reset and realign. At NTx Connect, we’re here to help you make that transition smoother, more intentional, and even a little inspiring.

Back to School Routine

Getting back into a back-to-school routine isn’t just about early mornings and packed lunches. It’s about creating habits that support focus, productivity, and balance. Setting consistent sleep schedules, planning healthy meals, and carving out time for both study and play can make all the difference in how the school year starts.

Back to Work Tips

Heading back to the office (or just back into the post-summer workflow) can feel overwhelming. Here are a few simple back to work tips to keep your days productive and less stressful:

Prioritize tasks with a daily to-do list.
Take movement breaks to refresh your focus.
Set boundaries for a healthier work-life balance.

Think of this season as a fresh slate, an opportunity to refine your systems, tackle projects with clarity, and reconnect with your team.

Back to the Gym Motivation

Motivation often begins with action and what better way to reignite your fitness goals than by checking out all that’s new at the gym? Commons Fitness just added three new treadmills and two new ellipticals, delivering smoother strides and upgraded features to elevate your cardio workouts. Embrace that first jog or session with a renewed sense of purpose. Visit our fitness center and host of classes that we offer at: www.commonsfit.com.

Healthy Habits After Summer

From late-night barbecues to weekend getaways, summer can throw off even the healthiest routines. Fall is your chance to reset:

Reintroduce balanced meals and meal prepping.
Stay hydrated throughout busy days.
Schedule downtime for mindfulness or reflection.

These healthy habits after summer don’t just improve wellness, but they boost energy, productivity, and focus in every area of life.

Our own Commons member, Cindy Jackson can help you as a personalized coach and educator. Visit her at: https://www.cindyjacksonwellness.com/

NTx Connect Community Highlights

This month, we’re celebrating the energy of a new season with events and opportunities to connect:

Wedding Expo On Sunday, August 24 (2–6 PM), indulge in planning creativity at The Marquee at New Town. Meet vendors, explore display setups, and enter a raffle for wedding-lounge upgrades.
Monthly After-Hours Events

Whether you’re seeking inspiration, networking, or wellness momentum these gatherings provide spaces to engage, inspire, and reset. See all of the networking opportunities available at www.NTxConnect.com.

Back to You

Ultimately, whether you’re restarting school routines, refreshing your work rhythm, reigniting gym habits, or building healthier post-summer habits this season is about you. Your energy, your balance, your well-being. Through NTx Connect’s curated tips and vibrant community offerings, you’ll step into fall not just ready but rooted.

Learn more about our community and how our members support the journey to wellness in the workplace. Contact our team at: 636-493-0307 or email us at: info@commonsgroup.co Create, collaborate, and celebrate your business.

Mental Health Starts Here: The Role of Wellness at Work.

July 1, 2025

In today’s fast-paced professional world, maintaining mental health is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. More businesses are realizing that supporting the emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of their teams leads to happier employees, greater productivity, and a healthier company culture. One of the most powerful places to begin nurturing that mental health? The workplace itself.

At The Commons, we believe that mental health starts right here—where we work, move, and connect. That’s why we’re proud to highlight Commons members who are doing vital work in the fields of wellness, therapy, and recovery. Each brings a unique approach to promoting wellness at work and beyond, offering resources that help individuals lead more balanced, mentally fit lives.

The Connection Between Wellness and Mental Health

There’s no denying the link between physical health and mental health. Research consistently shows that regular exercise reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, improves sleep, and boosts mood. Add mindfulness, therapy, and recovery tools to that mix, and you’ve got a holistic strategy for well-being.

Workplace wellness initiatives, whether through fitness programs, mental health support, or recovery resources—help reduce burnout, absenteeism, and turnover. But most importantly, they empower employees to take control of their health in an environment that supports their journey.

Meet The Commons Members Championing Mental Wellness

These Commons professionals are making mental wellness more accessible in the workplace and the community:

Cindy Jackson – Cindy Jackson Wellness

cindyjacksonwellness.com

Cindy takes an integrative approach to health by focusing on functional wellness, nutrition, movement, and lifestyle coaching. Her work emphasizes sustainable health – helping clients avoid burnout and feel energized and strong both at work and in life.

Brittney Sniezak – Almeta Porch Counseling

almetaporchcounseling.com

With a warm, relational approach, Brittney offers counseling services that support emotional healing and growth. Her practice provides a space for individuals to process stress, trauma, and major life transitions, making therapy approachable and effective for professionals.

Mike Bournstein – Therapist & Speaker

mikebournstein.com

Mike brings decades of experience in psychotherapy and mental health education to individuals and organizations. His speaking engagements and therapy sessions are grounded in real-world challenges, offering practical tools for emotional resilience and mindful leadership.

Timothy Kavanagh – Grand Falls Recovery

grandfallsrecovery.com

Timothy leads a team focused on addiction recovery and mental health treatment. Grand Falls Recovery is known for its compassionate, evidence-based approach to helping individuals rebuild their lives – an invaluable resource for employees and employers navigating the complexities of addiction.

Patricia Johnson – Founder, Nvision Your Life

https://coachp-coaching.com/

Patricia Johnson is the founder of Nvision Your Life, LLC, a purpose-driven coaching and leadership development company committed to breaking generational cycles and equipping families for lasting transformation. As a certified John Maxwell Coach, pastor, speaker, and author, Patricia brings over 35 years of personal recovery and ministry experience to her work with individuals, families, and communities. Patricia’s mission is clear: Love God. Love People. Change Generations.

Building a Culture of Mental Fitness

Wellness at work doesn’t stop at yoga classes and water challenges. It’s about cultivating a culture of care where seeking help is celebrated, and holistic health is embedded in company values.

At The Commons, we provide a space where wellness professionals can collaborate, share resources, and serve the local business community. Whether it’s booking a session with a therapist, attending a wellness workshop, or just finding a moment of mindfulness between meetings, it all starts here.

Ready to Bring Wellness to Work?

Explore the services of these outstanding professionals and consider how their work might support your team’s well-being. Because when mental health is prioritized, everyone thrives.

Are you a therapist or coach seeking a professional and welcoming space for your client sessions? We invite you to schedule a tour today to see our available office and studio spaces perfect for your practice.

Learn more about The Commons community and how our members support the journey to wellness in the workplace. Contact our team at: 636-493-0307 or email us at: info@commonsgroup.co Create, collaborate, and celebrate your business.

Mental Health Starts Here: The Role of Fitness and Wellness at Work.

June 4, 2025

Mental health awareness is a perfect time to reflect on how workplace wellness impacts our daily lives—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. At The Commons and Commons Fitness Center, we believe that creating a culture of health and wellness at work is one of the most powerful ways to support mental fitness and build resilient, high-performing teams.

The Mind-Body Connection at Work

We often think of fitness as something that happens outside of work—at the gym, on a hike, or in a fitness class. But the reality is, our mental and physical health are deeply interconnected, especially in the

workplace. Regular movement, access to fitness and wellness programs, and a healthy work environment all contribute to better mental health at work.

When employees move their bodies, they boost their brain chemistry. Exercise releases endorphins and reduces stress hormones like cortisol, making it a proven method for stress management and burnout prevention. Just 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity can make a dramatic difference in how people feel and function.

Why Workplace Wellness Matters More Than Ever

Between deadlines, digital overload, and the ever-present hustle, employees are feeling the pressure. Workplace wellness is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s essential for sustainable performance and long-term health. Offering access to a fitness center at work, wellness workshops, or mental health days helps reduce absenteeism, increase engagement, and improve overall morale.

At Commons Fit, we make it easy for employers to support their teams with convenient, on-site employee fitness benefits, designed to enhance both physical health and mental resilience. Whether it’s group workouts, meditation sessions, or personalized training plans, our programs are built to support the whole person—mind and body.

Building a Culture of Mental Wellness

Creating a culture of mental health support at work doesn’t just happen overnight. It starts with small, intentional actions:

Encourage breaks throughout the day
Promote work-life balance
Offer team wellness activities
Provide resources for mental health support
Integrate corporate wellness programs that include physical movement

These efforts show employees that their well-being is a priority—and that they don’t have to choose between doing great work and feeling great.

Fitness Is More Than a Perk—It’s a Strategy

At The Commons, we see mental fitness as a key business strategy. When your people feel supported, energized, and healthy, they do their best work. Investing in employee well-being isn’t just about reducing sick days or healthcare costs, it’s about building a company where people thrive.

As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, we invite you to reimagine how your workplace supports the people who power it. Let’s work together to create spaces where wellness at work is not just encouraged but built into the fabric of the day.

Ready to prioritize mental health in your workplace?

Explore our workplace wellness programs at Commons Fitness Center or learn how we’re building better communities through health and connection at The Commons . Short on time, but still interested in improving the strength of your mind and body, try out our NEW jump start class, 30 minute express circuit with Noelle! Learn more here!

Contact our team at: 636-493-0307 or email us at: info@commonsgroup.co Create, collaborate, and celebrate your business.

7 Essential Steps to Picking the Perfect Event Venue

May 26, 2025

Picking the right venue is often the make-or-break decision for any event. It sets the tone, impacts your budget, and dictates the overall guest experience. With so many options out there, the process of event venue selection can feel overwhelming. But fear not! By following these seven essential event planning steps, you can confidently choose a space that perfectly aligns with your vision.

Let’s dive into how to choose an event venue that’s just right for you.

Step 1:

Define Your Event’s Purpose & Vision

Before you even start looking, get crystal clear on why you’re hosting the event and what you want to achieve. Is it a corporate conference requiring multiple breakout rooms? A festive wedding reception needing ample dance floor space? A product launch demanding high-tech A/V capabilities?

Understanding your event’s core purpose and envisioning its overall look and feel (formal, casual, futuristic, rustic) will significantly narrow down your search and ensure you’re looking at venues that can truly deliver your desired atmosphere.

Step 2:

Establish Your Budget

The budget is a critical factor that will heavily influence your event venue selection. Determine how much you can realistically allocate to the venue itself, keeping in mind that many venues offer packages that include catering, A/V, and other services.

Be specific: does your budget include taxes, service charges, and potential overtime fees? Knowing your financial boundaries upfront will save you valuable time by allowing you to immediately rule out venues outside your price range.

Step 3:

Estimate Your Guest Count & Space Needs

This step is fundamental to creating an effective venue checklist. How many people do you anticipate attending? This number directly impacts the size of the venue you’ll need. Remember to consider not just the maximum capacity, but also:

· Comfortable capacity: How many people can fit comfortably without feeling cramped?

· Layout: Will you need space for a stage, dance floor, vendor booths, registration tables, or dining areas?

· Flow: Ensure there’s enough room for guests to move freely and for staff to serve effectively.

A venue like The Commons might be ideal for smaller, intimate gatherings, while a larger space like the Flex Room and Kitchen can accommodate a hundred, providing ample room for diverse activities.

Step 4:

Consider Location & Accessibility

The location of your venue is paramount for guest convenience. Think about:

· Proximity: Is it easy to reach for the majority of your guests?

· Transportation: Is there ample parking, or is it accessible via public transport?

· Accommodation: For out-of-town guests, are there hotels nearby?

· Local Amenities: Are there restaurants or attractions in the vicinity that guests might enjoy before or after the event?

If your event is regionally focused, perhaps somewhere in St. Charles, consider local traffic patterns and travel times during your event’s proposed hours.

Step 5:

Assess Amenities & Services

This is where your venue checklist becomes invaluable. Go beyond just the space itself and evaluate what amenities and services each venue offers. Key considerations include:

· Catering: Does the venue have in-house catering, preferred caterers, or is external catering allowed?

· Audio-Visual (A/V): What equipment is available (projectors, screens, sound systems, microphones)? Is there dedicated A/V support?

· Internet: Is Wi-Fi reliable and strong enough for your event’s needs?

· Furniture & Linens: Are tables, chairs, and linens included, or will you need to rent them?

· Staffing: What level of staff support is provided (event coordinators, security, clean-up crew)?

· Accessibility: Does the venue accommodate guests with disabilities?

Step 6:

Schedule Site Visits & Ask Key Questions

Once you’ve shortlisted a few contenders based on the previous steps, it’s time for site visits. Seeing the space in person is crucial. During your visit, use your venue checklist and come prepared with a list of questions:

· What are the available dates for my event?

· What is included in the rental fee?

· Are there any extra costs (e.g., cleaning fees, security deposits)?

· What is your cancellation policy?

· What is your policy on decorations and setup/teardown times?

· Do you have preferred vendors, or can I bring my own?

· What are the security procedures?

Pay attention to the venue’s cleanliness, lighting, acoustics, and overall condition.

Step 7:

Review Contracts & Secure Your Booking

Before signing on the dotted line, thoroughly review the contract. Ensure all discussed details, costs, and inclusions are clearly stipulated. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on any clause you don’t understand. Pay close attention to payment schedules, cancellation policies, and liability clauses.

Once you’re satisfied, secure your booking with a signed contract and deposit. Congratulations – you’re one step closer to hosting a memorable event in the perfect event venue!

We have everything you need to make the perfect event venue decision whether you’re eyeing The Commons or another top spot in North St. Charles City, please reach out to our team at: 636-493-0307 or email us at: info@commonsgroup.co Create, collaborate, and celebrate your business.

Can You List a Coworking Space on Google My Business? Rules, Risks, and Best Practices

April 7, 2025

Can You List a Coworking Space on Google My Business?

The short answer is it’s complicated. While Google’s guidelines don’t explicitly forbid listing coworking spaces, they do emphasize the importance of having a physical, customer-facing location. This is where the challenge lies. Since multiple businesses operate within a single coworking space, accurately representing your business while adhering to GMB guidelines requires careful consideration.

Understanding the Rules:

· Physical Address: Your coworking space must have a clear, designated street address. PO Boxes or virtual offices aren’t acceptable.

· Serviced Offices: If your coworking space offers private, lockable offices, these can often be listed individually on GMB under the respective business names, assuming they meet all other requirements.

· Shared Workspaces: Listing a shared workspace under the coworking space’s brand name is possible, but requires careful adherence to GMB’s guidelines.

· Transparency: Transparency is key. Clearly state on your GMB profile that it’s located in a coworking space. This avoids confusion for potential customers looking for specific businesses.

Risks and Considerations:

· Misrepresentation: Don’t list your coworking space as a specific business unless it genuinely represents that business’s primary location.

· Address Conflicts: Ensure each business operating within the coworking space uses its unique suite number (if applicable) or utilizes a virtual office service with a separate address for their GMB listing.

Best Practices for Listing Your Coworking Space:

· Accurate Information: Provide accurate and up-to-date information about your coworking space, including hours of operation, amenities, and contact details.

· High-Quality Photos: Showcase your space with attractive, professional photos highlighting the workspace environment, amenities, and community atmosphere. At the Commons we have a library of high-quality images to pick from, just ask us and we’re happy to share with our members.

· Regular Updates: Keep your GMB profile fresh with regular updates, posts, and responses to reviews.

· Category Selection: Choose relevant categories such as “Coworking space,” “Shared workspace,” or “Office space rental.”

· Virtual Office Considerations: If offering virtual office services, consider using a separate address or partnering with a virtual office provider that manages GMB listings.

· Local Citations: Ensure your coworking space is listed consistently across other online directories.

Successfully listing your business on Google My Business requires a strategic approach that balances promoting your space while adhering to GMB’s guidelines. By following these best practices and understanding the potential risks, you can leverage GMB to connect with potential new members, clients and grow your coworking community. Need help navigating the complexities of GMB for your coworking space?

Reach out to the experts! Contact our team at: 636-493-0307 or email us at: info@commonsgroup.co Create, collaborate, and celebrate your business.

The Commons eNews

March 12, 2025

Jeannie Crosby
CoWorking, Fitness, happenings, Networking, News
0 comments

The Heart of Productivity: Loving Your Job and Workplace Environment

January 15, 2025

Many of us embark on the new year with a burst of motivation, implementing new productivity hacks and striving for peak efficiency. However, these efforts can quickly lose steam if we’re fundamentally disconnected from our work or struggling in a negative environment. Think about it: how much easier is it to tackle a challenging project when you’re surrounded by supportive colleagues in a space that inspires you?

The connection between job satisfaction and productivity is well-documented. When we genuinely enjoy our work and feel valued, we’re more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to achieving our goals. This intrinsic motivation is a powerful driver of productivity, far surpassing the fleeting effects of external pressures or short-term incentives.

Similarly, a positive workplace environment plays a crucial role. A supportive and collaborative atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and psychological safety, allowing us to thrive both individually and collectively. This can include factors like:

· Positive Relationships: Strong connections with colleagues create a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, making it easier to navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.

· Respectful Communication: Open and honest communication, free from negativity and gossip, builds trust and encourages collaboration.

· Work-Life Balance: A workplace that respects boundaries and encourages a healthy work-life balance reduces stress and burnout, leading to increased productivity during work hours.

· Opportunities for Growth: The chance to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and advance within the company keeps us engaged and motivated.

· Physical Environment: A comfortable and aesthetically pleasing workspace can have a significant impact on our mood and productivity.

Creating this positive environment is a shared responsibility, involving both employers and employees. Employers can invest in creating a culture of appreciation, providing opportunities for professional development, and fostering open communication. Employees, in turn, can contribute by fostering positive relationships with colleagues, maintaining a professional attitude, and actively participating in creating a supportive work environment.

As we continue our quest for enhanced productivity in the new year, let’s not overlook the power of the heart. Cultivating a love for our work and fostering a positive workplace environment can be the key to unlocking our full potential. By prioritizing job satisfaction and creating a space where we feel valued, supported, and inspired, we can not only boost our productivity but also cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose in our professional lives. This February let’s make a commitment to nurturing the heart of productivity and creating workplaces where we can truly thrive.

Find Your Love Of Work At The Commons Shared Workspace.

Located in the business district of New Town in St. Charles, The Commons is St. Charles’s newest coworking space and features private offices and shared workspaces for entrepreneurs, professionals, and remote workers. The Commons is a fun, yet professional, collaborative space providing a cost-effective and efficient way to work and grow.

You do not need to have an office at The Commons to be a part of our “micro Chamber of Commerce.” We invite you to become a community member of The HUB which will support your love for your work community. Packed with exclusive benefits and opportunities, this membership is designed to empower professionals and help them thrive in a vibrant business community. The HUB serves our area as the go-to place for information, recommendations, and connections.

Want to be a part of a community to benefit from the networking, marketing, and community-building, but aren’t needing regular desk space? We offer 10% off all Day Passes and Space bookings. Includes Member portal access and invites to member-only events, including a monthly complimentary Networking Lunch and a monthly After Hour with complimentary beverages and snacks. And there are more perks! Learn more here!

Join us this month at our Choose Your Destiny Intensive Workshop – Focus on what you want, not what you don’t want. Register and learn more here!

Ready to take a mental break? Take a tour and set up your new workspace at The Commons. You can reach our team at: 636-493-0307 or email us at: info@commonsgroup.co Create, collaborate, and celebrate your business.

Conquer Your Inbox: Tips & Tricks for Email Mastery

January 2, 2025

This article will provide you with valuable tips and tricks to conquer your inbox and regain control of your email communication:

1. The Inbox Zero Philosophy:

The Goal: Aim to have zero unread emails in your inbox. This doesn’t necessarily mean deleting everything, but rather processing each email and moving it to an appropriate folder.
Key Principles:
- Process Each Email Once: Decide what to do with each email immediately: respond, delegate, archive, or delete.
- Use Folders and Labels: Create a well-organized system of folders and labels to categorize your emails effectively.
- Unsubscribe from Unwanted Emails: Reduce the volume of incoming emails by unsubscribing from newsletters and promotional emails you no longer find useful.

2. Leverage Automation and AI:

Email Filters: Set up filters in your email client to automatically sort incoming emails based on sender, subject, or keywords. This can help you quickly identify and prioritize important messages.
AI-Powered Assistants: Explore AI-powered tools that can help you summarize emails, schedule follow-ups, and even draft responses.

3. Time Management Techniques:

Dedicated Email Check Times: Schedule specific times throughout the day to check and respond to emails. This prevents constant distractions and allows you to focus on other tasks.
Batch Processing: Set aside a block of time to respond to emails in bulk. This can improve efficiency and reduce the time spent on email.

4. Conquer Your Inbox Seminar at The Commons:

Want to learn more about email organization and productivity? Join us for a seminar led by Alex Ward, owner of Automate My.Co., at The Commons on Thursday, January 23rd at 3 PM.

In this seminar, you will learn: