Last week, we welcomed 30 brilliant local business owners and entrepreneurs to something a little different: our very first Anti-Networking event.
Designed as a space where people can connect as humans first – not job titles – it was a night of real conversation, shared stories, and unexpected moments that reminded us why doing business locally matters.
Hosted at the perfectly air-conditioned (!) Event Rooms, we kicked off with drinks over a nostalgic soundtrack (courtesy of Ritesh from Flashback DJs) before inviting guests to craft their alter-ego name badges. (#IYKYK)
Then came high-energy SpeedNOTworking – a fast-paced, feel-good session led by the team from Studio Zao. No elevator pitches. No awkward small talk. Just connection – and laughter!
After a break at the bar, we headed into the lounge for some real talk from local creative entrepreneur Laura from The South Wing. She shared the messier side of growing her creative studio, The Detail, offering a dose of honesty and hard-won wisdom that clearly hit home with attendees.
More drinks (and NOTworking conversations) followed, helped along by our (slightly optimistic!) scratchcard incentive. While there were no angel investment jackpots, we did hear:
“Our £5 scratchcard win cemented a coffee date!” – Jill
Some stuck around for one-to-one support with Studio Zao, others carried on the chat in the sunshine outside before heading to The Dog pub garden round the corner.
The feedback so far has been exactly what we hoped for:
“I loved every minute. Met some incredibly talented entrepreneurs and got my much-needed dose of inspiration. My kind of crowd.” – Irena
“A great night meeting some really interesting people.” – Felicity
“Loved connecting with other local business owners.” – Heather
“I left feeling inspired – and with a Corona and packet of Mini Cheddars in hand!” – Samantha
What’s next?
Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the night what it was. We’re already planning what comes next (and will be in touch with launch night attendees to get their thoughts), so if you’re a local business owner craving genuine connection, motivation and a networking event that feels more like a night out… stay tuned.
This event was run in partnership with Studio Zao with support from Croydon Council.
EAST CROYDON COOL 