Sip + Social: A fresh take on business networking that doesn’t feel like work.
On 30th October, 140 business owners, freelancers and professionals gathered at Staggeringly Good Brewery for Sip + Social, a sell-out event blending informal networking, playful energy and community celebration, with a side of Hip Hop Blingo.
ExCo
Co-created by Sarah Roads (SLR Recruitment) and Dan O’Brien (Citrus Facilities Management), the event offered a refreshing alternative to traditional business meet ups, complete with a hip hop soundtrack, creative ice breakers and the launch of the first ever Portsmouth Alternative Business Awards.
The night sold out twice after an extra release of tickets and raised £1,206 for local charity Spark Community Space. An important charity based in Fratton way, that helps people find their spark. It's a charity that means a great deal to both Sarah and Dan who are both Ambassadors for Spark.
“We didn’t want to reinvent networking, just offer a version that felt more relaxed and playful because as every business owner knows - business can be serious enough” said co-creator Sarah Roads.
“People were talking, laughing, connecting and it felt different in the best possible way.”
At the heart of the event was the first ever Alternative Business Awards, created to shine a light on the people and businesses who often go unnoticed at bigger, more formal awards. Eight feel good, community driven categories were awarded on the night.
2024 Alternative Business Award Winners.
People’s Champion – Louise O’Brien (Southsea Folk)
Hospitality Hero – Bransbury Butchers
Keep it in the Family Business Award – The Coastal Kitchen
New Kids on the Block – Look Up Portsmouth
Inspirational Leader – Jane Lamer
Sports, Health & Wellbeing Warrior – Sammie Burr (Sammie B Fitness)
Collaborator of the Year – Shaping Portsmouth
Remote Worker Rockstar – Bianca Braithwaite (Mindset Maintenance)
“This event hit different because it wasn’t about turnover or titles,” said co-creator Dan O’Brien. “It was about recognising the people who show up and make a difference everyday, behind the scenes, in their teams and their communities.”
With overwhelmingly positive feedback and a high-energy atmosphere, the organisers are already planning future editions of Sip + Social, aiming to keep the spirit of connection, celebration and play at the heart of local business life.