People who work at home often need a place to meet with clients to discuss plans, projects, and proposals. Sometimes it helps to get out of the house, away from distractions such as pets or kids, to get something done.

Lise and I like to meet up with clients at their offices to get a sense of their business if possible, but when we can't, we often suggest meeting downtown to discuss web site plans. Specifically, I've found the Blue Moose to be an excellent work-at-home meeting place.

The Blue Moose works well for client meetings for a number of reasons.

First, there's food. The cafe has a selection of hot and cold drinks, baked goods, sandwiches and more to munch on. Grab a sandwich and a spritzer, or a coffee and a muffin, and you'll be well fed during your meeting. It's nice to support other small businesses while working.

Second, there's wi-fi. Customers can connect to the internet, which makes it easy to look at web sites or check online details.

Third, it's a nice room with enough space so that you can hear one another and concentrate while still being out in public. There are high ceilings and big windows, and a combination of tables, chairs, and counters to settle yourself.

Add to all of this: easy to walk to, lots of nearby parking, friendly owners Ken and Paul, a store full of interesting housewares and gifts, and a new store-within-a-store featuring clothing and accessories.

Blue Moose is also convenient for home office errands - it's next to Brown & Roberts, close to most banks, and in the same block as the Post Office, so errands can be easily combined.

I write this to encourage others to try them out. After the Brooks House fire, Blue Moose and other businesses lost some of the everyday referrals that occur among downtown stores. Brooks House stores that used to refer customers to them are gone.

Drop in for a snack, a meal, and a meeting. Take yourself to lunch and enjoy some shopping all in once place.