Pints and Purpose FAQ

What is Pints and Purpose?

Pints and Purpose is a relaxed, friendly meet-up for women and non-binary folks who run businesses, freelance, or work creatively. It’s a space to chat, connect, share ideas and support one another – all over a pint (or your drink of choice!) in a local South East London pub.

Who is it for?

These events are for women and non-binary people who:

  • Run or are starting a business
  • Freelance or work creatively
  • Want to connect with like-minded people
  • Value community over competition

All industries and experience levels are welcome – whether you’ve been self-employed for years or you’re just daydreaming about it.

Do I have to be a business owner to join?

Nope! You don’t need to own a business or even have it all figured out. If you’re freelance, creative, self-employed, or simply curious and want to meet others doing their own thing – you’re warmly welcome.

When and where do the events happen?

We meet once a month in a cosy, welcoming pub in South East London. Each month we may choose a different pub – we’ll always let you know the venue in advance when you book.

Do I have to show up at 7pm and stay until 9pm?

Not at all. Arrive when you can, leave when you need to. Things tend to warm up around 7:30pm, and there’s a loose structure to help everyone feel included, but it’s all pretty flexible.

Can I get a refund if I can’t come anymore?

We’re a small operation so unfortunately we can’t offer refunds, but you’re welcome to gift or resell your ticket to someone else. Just drop us a quick message so we know who to expect.

Can I transfer my ticket to another meetup?

We used to do this but the admin is wild and the costs just don’t work out – sorry! So if you can’t make it, you’ll need to book a new ticket next time.

Can I show up and pay cash on the night?

We ask everyone to book in advance. This helps us plan the space, materials, and keep the vibe intentional and welcoming. No cash on the door, thanks for understanding!

How much does it cost?

Tickets are £15 unless otherwise stated and must be booked in advance. This covers admin, materials, and the time spent curating and hosting a good-quality experience.

What do I get for my ticket?

Your £15 ticket includes:

  • A warm welcome from the host (and sometimes a guest co-host)
  • Thoughtfully structured informal networking
  • Prompt cards and conversation starters (no awkward small talk!)
  • Time to share wins, challenges, or goals if you’d like
  • A brilliant mix of connection, support and ideas over a pint or a soft drink

What should I expect from a meetup?

Funny you should ask. We wrote a blog about this very topic! But if you do have any questions just get in touch.

Who hosts Pints and Purpose?

Your host is Maddy Shine, a blue haired small business mentor, web designer and SEO expert based in SE20. You can find out more about the backstory of how Pints & Purpose came to be here.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely! Loads of people come solo, and we always create a welcoming, no-cliques vibe. You’ll leave feeling uplifted and like you’ve made genuine connections.

How can I make the most of coming to a meetup?

We wrote a blog about it! Whether you’re introvert, extrovert or anywhere in between, take a look.

Do I need to bring anything?

Just yourself. If you like taking notes, bring a notebook or phone. You’re also welcome to bring business cards if that’s your thing – but there’s zero pressure.

Is it networking?

Yes – but the gentle, real kind. No elevator pitches or selling. Think connection over competition. We believe business is better (and more fun) when it’s human.

Are the venues accessible?

We aim to choose pubs that are wheelchair accessible and have decent public transport links. If you have specific access needs, please feel free to message us in advance – we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Want to know anything else? Just get in touch – we’re happy to help.

Why do you include non-binary people at this women’s event?

Because we believe in building inclusive spaces. Many non-binary people face similar challenges in work, business, and life as women do – especially around visibility, safety, and systemic inequality. Pints and Purpose is about solidarity and connection, and we proudly welcome non-binary folks who resonate with our community vibe.

I have a question about the event – who can I ask?

You can email us here. No question is too small – we’re always happy to help (although not if you’re going to email us something sexist or transphobic – we’ve been there and dealt with that, thanks!)

Can I suggest a pub or be a guest co-host?

Yes please! We love venue suggestions and hearing from potential guest co-hosts. Just drop us a message or come chat at an event.

How can I stay in the loop?

Make sure you follow us on Instagram and join our mailing list (link at the bottom of this page) for early bird tickets, venue announcements, and updates. If you’ve been to at least one of our meetups, you can also join our WhatsApp for community chat between events – just email us for the link.

What’s the Pints and Purpose directory?

Our directory is a curated list of brilliant businesses, services, and creative folks from within the Pints and Purpose community. It’s a way to support each other and help people find trusted, like-minded businesses to work with, buy from, or collaborate with.

How can I get listed in your directory?

You can fill in the form on the directory page – it’s free to join if you’ve attended a Pints and Purpose event. We’ll review submissions and get in touch when your listing is live. If you’re not sure if you’re eligible or have questions, just drop us a message.

Can I edit or update my directory listing?

Absolutely – just email us with your changes and we’ll get it sorted. We’re a small team, so please bear with us for updates!

Do I need to have a website to be in the directory?

Nope! A website is helpful, but not essential. You can list a social media account, Etsy shop, Substack, or anything else where people can find or contact you.

What’s the blog all about?

The blog is where we share reflections, event roundups, useful tips, community spotlights, and other bits of inspiration for freelancers, creatives and business owners. It’s a little behind-the-scenes and a little helpful resource bank. You can pitch to share your expertise here. 

Can I write for the blog or be featured?

We’d love that! If you have something to say that would resonate with our community – a useful tip, a story, a reflection or a creative idea – just get in touch. We’re open to guest contributors and interviews with community members. You can pitch here.

I can’t make the next one – will there be more?

Yes! We’re here monthly. If you miss one, don’t worry – just book the next. You can also sign up to our mailing list below to be first to hear when new dates go live