Crowdfunding

**London Networking Event \| Creatives & Founders** If you’re in London and working in **design, creativity, startups, or digital products**, this is a **London networking event** built for real conversations and real opportunities — not awkward small talk or overly structured events. We bring together graphic designers, UX/UI designers, creatives, marketers, founders, and startup professionals to connect, collaborate, and build meaningful relationships in London’s creative scene. 📍 **Venue: The Sycamore, Holborn** A modern, relaxed venue in central London, just steps from Holborn station. Perfect for after-work networking, drinks, and great conversations. 📅 **Event Schedule** **18:30 – 19:00** \| Welcome & Warm intro **19:00 – 19:30** \| Open Networking **19:30 – 21:30** \| Informal Networking \(no pitches\, no pressure\) **Why Attend?** London’s creative industry moves fast — the best opportunities often come from **who you meet, not what you apply for**. This event is about building those real connections. 👥 **Who Should Attend** Creatives, founders, designers, marketers, product managers, investors, freelancers, and anyone interested in London networking events and startup networking. **🎟 Tickets & Entry:** To avoid the venue getting overcrowded and ensure everyone enjoys an amazing night, we've introduced a small ticket price to keep things running smoothly. **Limited spots!** RSVP early — space is limited. 📸 **Event Photography** Photos may be taken for promotional use **WhatsApp**👉[https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg](http://%5Bhttps//chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg%5D(https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg) "\[https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg\](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg)")

Join Us for a Hot Choc Mob Evening! We’ll be hitting the streets of London with something simple but powerful: warm drinks, snacks, and human connection. The Hot Choc Mob is a group of volunteers who believe a small act of kindness can mean a lot to someone sleeping rough or living through a tough time. We’re not a charity or religious group—just people who care and want to make a difference in our city. You don’t need any experience to join us. You’ll be welcomed by our walk leader and introduced to the group. From there, we’ll spend about an hour sharing hot chocolate, food, clothing, and friendly conversation with people who need it most. Afterwards, if you’d like to stay, we’ll regroup at a local pub to share stories and get to know each other. Items to bring along that are highly appreciated include bottled water or juice, soft fruit, tinned sardines, new socks, boxer shorts and t-shirts. And if you have a flask for hot water - instant coffee, tea bags, instant hot chocolate, sugar and milk enable us to make hot drinks for those we meet. If you can’t attend but still want to support us, we also have an [Amazon Wishlist](https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/3T0FPY3DHUG9A?type=wishlist&filter=all&sort=priority&viewType=list) for essential items. This is your chance to make a real impact in someone’s day while meeting like-minded people who care about community and connection. Spaces are limited, so click RSVP now and join us for an evening that truly matters. Questions? Message Lynn on 07970 983340 Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/hotchocmob/)

**RSVP TO ATTEND THIS EVENT. ALL TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE TO ATTEND THIS EVENT..** Imagine being part of a vibrant community that's shaping the future of travel and hospitality. Welcome to London Connections, the ultimate event where innovators, investors, and industry leaders come together to revolutionize the way we experience the world. **Ticket & Entry: Here is the payment link:** https://www.fatsoma.com/e/dy7b47nq/london-connections-travel-hospitality-startups-investors-event Join us at London Connections, where the most exciting travel and hospitality startups will showcase their groundbreaking solutions, and investors will uncover the next big opportunity. This is your chance to be at the forefront of the industry's most significant trends and innovations, and to connect with the people who are changing the game. **What to Expect:** * * **Networking Opportunities**: Connect with like-minded professionals, potential partners, and investors who can help take your business to the next level. * * **Collaboration and Deal-Making**: Be part of meaningful conversations, and explore potential partnerships and investment opportunities. **Why Attend:** * * **Stay Ahead of the Curve**: Get exclusive access to the latest industry trends, innovations, and insights that will shape the future of travel and hospitality. * * **Meet the Movers and Shakers**: Connect with the people who are driving change and innovation in the industry, and learn from their experiences. * * **Unlock New Opportunities**: Discover new business opportunities, partnerships, and investments that can help take your business to new heights. **Join the Movement:** London Connections is more than just an event – it's a community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who are passionate about shaping the future of travel and hospitality. By attending, you'll become part of a vibrant ecosystem that's driving change and innovation. **Ticket & Entry: Here is the payment link:** https://www.fatsoma.com/e/dy7b47nq/london-connections-travel-hospitality-startups-investors-event **Tickets need to be bought online in advance to attend this event. Tickets are not available at the door.** **Refund policy: There is no refund at this event.**

Looking to brush up on your BSL skills or connect with other learners? Sacred Grounds is hosting a weekly Sign Club every Tuesday from 5-7pm. This casual and informal meetup is perfect for anyone learning BSL, whether you're just starting out or looking to keep your skills sharp. Come along to practice signing, connect with others in the community, and even try ordering your coffee in BSL! There’s no fee to join - all we ask is that if you're able to, you support the coffee shop by purchasing a drink or snack while you're here (please note that outside food and drinks are not permitted). Sacred Grounds is all about creating a warm and inclusive space, so don’t be shy - come sign with us! We look forward to welcoming you.

**Welcome to Networx London!** Calling all e-commerce founders, dropshipping entrepreneurs, and tech professionals: join an evening of relaxed networking and idea sharing. Connect with founders, marketers, investors, and brand owners—no pitches, just real conversations. 📍 **Venue: The Sycamore, Holborn** A modern, relaxed venue in central London, just steps from Holborn station. Perfect for after-work networking, drinks, and great conversations. 📅 **Event Schedule** **18:30 – 19:00** \| Welcome & Warm intro **19:00 – 19:30** \| Open Networking **19:30 – 21:30** \| Informal Networking \(no pitches\, no pressure\) 💡 **Why Attend?** Connect with professionals, founders, and investors across London, discover new opportunities, and build valuable business relationships in a relaxed networking setting. **👥 Who Should Attend** Founders, entrepreneurs, tech professionals, marketers, investors, creatives, and anyone interested in startups, innovation, and business growth. **🎟 Tickets & Entry:** To avoid the venue getting overcrowded and ensure everyone enjoys an amazing night, we've introduced a small ticket price to keep things running smoothly. **Limited spots!** Limited spots available, register early. 📸 **Photos/videos** may be taken for promotional purposes **WhatsApp**👉[https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg](http://%5Bhttps//chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg%5D(https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg) "\[https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg\](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GisOCaIiMeKEehV5Lv7qxg)")

**Kindly note that this is a paid event and the average number of attendees for our events is 60-70 people. You can register on [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wealth-connector-mayfair-london-investment-networking-tickets-1987686967226?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wealth-connector-mayfair-london-investment-networking-tickets-1987686967226?aff=meetup)** Join Wealth Connector® Mayfair to meet investors, wealth managers & founders exploring co-investment and strategic growth. #### London’s Premium Wealth & Investment Networking Event Join London’s high-calibre networking event for **investors, wealth managers, entrepreneurs, founders, senior executives, HNWIs, and growth-focused professionals**. Wealth Connector® bring together those who have created wealth, those looking to preserve it, and experts providing wealth-building and wealth-protection strategies. This is a thoughtfully designed, relationship-focused event that prioritises **meaningful conversations, collaboration, and long-term opportunity creation** 🤝💡. ## **Why Join? 🌟** ### **Expand Your Network 🤝** Connect with investors, financial professionals, business leaders, and HNWIs looking to share insights, explore opportunities, and build lasting professional relationships. ### **Explore Strategic Partnerships 🔗** Discover collaboration opportunities, co-investment strategies, and long-term wealth creation or preservation solutions. ### **Premium Networking Experience 💡** Engage with a curated community of high-calibre professionals in a sophisticated Mayfair venue designed for meaningful, no-pressure interactions. ## **What You’ll Gain 🎯** **Strategic Connections** Build trusted relationships with entrepreneurs, investors, executives, and advisors. **Valuable Insights** Learn about wealth management, investment trends, and growth strategies from experts. **Collaboration Opportunities:** Identify partners and opportunities to co-invest, co-create, or grow your wealth strategically. ## **Event Details 🕒** 📅 **Date:** 27th April ⏰ **17:00 – Event Start** Fully hosted, free-format networking focused on quality conversations. ## **WhatsApp Group 📲** Continue the conversation before and after the event by joining the exclusive attendee WhatsApp group. On the day, you will receive an email invitation to join. ## **Venue 📍** Hosted at **Hay Hill**, a premium Mayfair venue blending elegance, discretion, and a professional environment for high-level networking. ## **Dress Code 👔** Business attire or smart casual. No T-shirts or trainers. ## **Refund Policy ℹ️** Advance tickets are discounted and non-refundable, but may be reassigned to another person if you are unable to attend. ## **Event Disclaimer 📸** Photos and videos may be taken during the event for use across social media channels and promotional materials. * [United Kingdom Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/events) * [Greater London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--greater-london/events) * [Things to do in London](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ttd/united-kingdom--london) * [London networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/networking) * [London Business networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/business--networking)

**​Founders Running Club (FRC)** brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. ​9:15 Bag drop at the Regent's Bar and Kitchen, Regent's Park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MmZdAVM8yXT9euKc7 ​9:30 Warm Up starts at the Inner Circle & York Bridge, South Gate: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6) 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 27 cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats)** **Stay updated:** **Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/)** **Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/)** **LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/)** **Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC)** **Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)**

**What we are about:** Life drawing sessions every Wednesday 7.30pm-9.30pm This class is for all drawing levels, aiming to improve your own drawing style and learning about drawing the human form and anatomy in a relaxed and friendly environment. The class invites you to study guided or untutored with professional models in a variety of different poses. Usually we begin with a series of short poses and warm up exercises from 1min to 5mins. Followed by longer studies of 10, 15 and 20mins. We have a small break and the we’ll continue with a 25 min pose and concluding with a 20 minute pose. A different model each week All levels welcome Guidance given/optional Drawing materials and paper provided and included in the price. We are a friendly, welcoming, sociable group. Price: Drop-in, single session £15 - weekly sessions art materials and paper provided You can pay by cash or use this pay pal link : // [paypal.me/CreativeLifeDrawing](http://paypal.me?CreativeLifeDrawing) please choose - pay friends and family members If you like to secure your spot you can pay via this meet-up site but they will add some additional fees. CreativeLifeDrawing [J_wolfmail@yahoo.com](mailto:J_wolfmail@yahoo.com) Jennifer Wolf

Looking for quality **business networking in London**? Join an exclusive evening at **Tide HQ**, organised by **GMax Card**, **Getshop Today,** and **Tide** \- three products built by founders\, for founders\. Hosted inside **Tide’s headquarters at Silicon Roundabout**, the heart of London’s startup ecosystem. Whether you're pre-seed or scaling, solo or building a team, this is where you meet the people who get it and can help you move faster. **WHY ATTEND:** * Free premium digital business card (£65 value) - claim it on the night (for paid tix holders only) * Real connections - co-founders, customers, partners & more * 50% off premium GMax Card upgrades for your team * Practical tools & insights to run your startup smarter Connect with **tech founders, startup teams, business owners, and professionals** **across fintech, finance, banking, business and technology.** **BONUS FOR PAID TICKET HOLDERS :** Free ticket includes event access only. Paid tickets include a **physical contactless GMax Card** and event access. **WHO'LL BE ATTENDING** Expect a mix of: * **Early-stage to growth-stage startup founders** * **Tech entrepreneurs** and product builders * **Fintech innovators** and operators * **Indie founders, solopreneurs** and **bootstrapped business owners** * **Finance professionals** and **startup advisors** * People working across **business and technology** **ABOUT THIS STARTUP AND BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT** In the **startup and business world**, success rarely happens in isolation. The right connections unlock **co-founders, early customers,** and relationships that accelerate **growth**. But most networking events don't deliver that. After hundreds of iterations, we've built a **format that actually works:** * Well-tested icebreakers (optional, but they work) to break the initial awkwardness * "Quick intros" round - 30-60 seconds each so everyone knows who's who in the room * Short talks from [GMax Card](http://www.gmaxcard.com/) on strategic networking and Tide on founder-friendly business tools * On-the-spot [Tide](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F) consultations - bring your banking and ops questions, get real answers * Drinks and refreshments for real conversations to develop naturally **Testimonials:** Check out [video testimonials from founders who've attended previous events.](https://vimeo.com/1162995661) **VENUE** **[Tide](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F) HQ - Featherstone Building, Silicon Roundabout, London** Right at the heart of UK's tech and startup hub, Tide's modern headquarters provides an open, professional environment designed for founders and operators and built for collaboration. Part of our bi-weekly series. **ORGANISERS** **[GMax Card](http://www.gmaxcard.com/)**[ - Free digital business cards](http://www.gmaxcard.com/), with Premium NFC smart cards and team networking tools. **[Getshop Today](http://www.getshop.today/)**[ - UK based eCommerce platform ](http://www.getshop.today/)to build your own independent online store in minutes instead of relying solely on global marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. **Hosted at [Tide](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F)**[ - The digital-first business bank ](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F)built to support entrepreneurs and SMEs. **DRESS CODE** Business or smart. Dress as you would for an investor meeting - polished and professional. **IMPORTANT DETAILS** * Dress code: business / smart * **Photography & Video:** Content may be captured by [CineEye Audiovisual Production Studio](www.cineeye.co.uk) for promotional use. By attending, **you agree to sign a media release form**. If you prefer not to appear in photos or video, please refrain from attending. * ID Requirements: Attendance for 18+ only. Proof of ID may be requested at reception. * Refund Policy: Refunds available up to 1 day before the event if any. Meetup fees are non-refundable (if any). **RESERVE YOUR PLACE NOW** **Limited spaces - reserve your spot now!**

### **Let's talk 'AI & Business'** Join us for an informal evening of **networking**, **expert talks on** **AI Governance, Data Sovereignty** & a **panel discussion on "How we use AI in our business today"**. **BOOK YOUR PLACE:** [https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may](https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may) **\- Your place must be booked in advance\.** We’re bringing together our AI Professionals & Business communities in/around London to meet, connect and **explore how AI is being built and used in business today.** Whether you’re a founder, investor, professional or simply curious about the AI revolution in business, this is your chance to learn, connect and be inspired. Make real connections, share experiences, be inspired and to inspire others whilst chatting about AI in Business in a relaxed, friendly setting. No formal pitches. Just great conversations! **For more information and to reserve your place visit: [https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may](https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may)** **Venue:** Civo Tech Junction, London, EC2A Pizza & drinks provided courtesy of our Sponsor, Civo.com. **Event Sponsor:** We are proud to be sponsored by **Civo.com** \- Civo is the Sovereign Cloud and AI platform that frees you to build without limits\. Trusted by ambitious startups and major enterprises around the world to deliver scalable\, sustainable infrastructure without the hidden costs or headaches\. We hope you will join us for an inspiring, enjoyable evening. **[Register now to secure your place.](https://aiprofessionals.network/aipb-registration-page1)** NOTE: This event is also being promoted by many other groups and some photos/ videos may be taken for future promotional purposes.

London has 9 million people in it. And somehow, founders still feel like they're building alone. The Founders Table is a small dinner for early-stage builders. 15 seats. No pitch practice, no investor small talk — just real conversation about what it actually takes to build. You won't know anyone when you arrive. But I'm pretty sure when you leave, you will. I've worn two hats — growth equity investor and operator. In both roles, I kept seeing the same thing: founders who are still ideating, still pre-raise, are isolated. They want to talk GTM, hiring, sales, how to actually move the needle. So I'm building the table that didn't exist. You should come if you are: • Building something — a startup, a side project, an idea you can't stop thinking about • Pre-raise or early stage and figuring it out as you go • Craving honest conversation with people who get it • Done with surface-level networking Please don't come if you: • Are only here to pitch or collect contacts • Need the conversation to stay safe and polished • Are not genuinely curious about the people sitting next to you The details: 📍 Central London (exact location to be shared closer to the date) 🗓️ Date — 29th May, 2026 🪑 15 seats only 🎟️ £20 to reserve your seat 🍽️ You pay for your own food/drinks. Link below. See you at the table.

Pitch.london is a curated speed-networking event for founders, operators and serious builders. Short, structured conversations. Sharp prompts. Real chemistry, fast. The hardest problem in early-stage entrepreneurship is finding the right people. Most events leave it to chance. We don’t. The room is curated, the prompts are clear, and the format is built for high-signal encounters between people who are actually building something. In one evening, you can meet more relevant people than you might in months of random networking. Two formats. One room. Zero fluff. **01\. Founder matchmaking pitches** Sixty seconds to share who you are, what you’re building, and what would actually help right now. Whatever you’re looking for, the room is built to help you find it: people to build with, people to hire or be hired by, advisors and investors, or honest feedback on what you’re shipping. **02\. Group brainstorms** Small, time-boxed groups tackle a real challenge brought into the room. Bring a live problem you’re stuck on. Get five minds on it for ten minutes. Leave with new angles and next steps. **This room is for you if you’re:** * A founder seeking a co-founder * A founder seeking a first hire * An operator looking for a serious team to join * A technical builder open to commercial partners * A commercial builder open to technical partners * A second-time founder scoping the next thing * An angel investor close to the early-stage scene It’s probably not for you if you’re hunting for clients, selling services, or still working out what you’re looking for. **Run of show** * 17:30 to 18:00 Doors, drinks, soft start * 18:00 to 18:05 Welcome and the rules of the room * 18:05 to 18:35 Speed pitches: Round 1 * 18:35 to 19:15 Group brainstorms * 19:15 to 19:45 Speed pitches: Round 2 * 19:45 to 20:00 Open networking, then drinks at the citizenM Skybar **What’s included** Your £25 covers your seat in the room and a drink at the citizenM Skybar after the programme. **First 30 in get a seat**

(Note: RSVPing here on meetup does NOT reserve your seat. To do that, you’ll need to register at our website, **[HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=In-Person-Columbus-Meeting-How-I-Get-Private-Lenders-and-Partners-to-Fund-My-Deals-14-6-2-2026)**.) Tuesday, June 2nd, 5:00–8:30 PM Eastern Central Ohio Chapter Meeting IN PERSON IN COLUMBUS How I Get Private Lenders and Partners to Fund My Deals If you can’t fund it, you don’t have a deal. And right now, funding is where more investors are getting stuck. Private lenders are more cautious. Partners are asking better questions. And deals that look good on paper still fall apart when the money doesn’t show up. That’s why we’re bringing in a panel of investors who are actually getting their deals funded right now. You’ll hear how they’re finding money, structuring deals, and building relationships that lead to repeat funding. Here’s what you’ll learn: * Where they’re finding private lenders today * How they start conversations that lead to funding * What makes lenders and partners say YES * How they structure deals to be fundable * The biggest mistakes investors make when raising money * How to build repeat funding relationships **Early Session (6:00–7:00 PM Eastern):** **Having Trouble Finding Tenants? How Community Shelter Board Can Help** Nicholas Brenner will walk you through programs designed to help rapidly rehouse tenants, including financial support that can stabilize your rentals. **The Deal Room (7:00–7:30 PM Eastern)** Bring deals, funding needs, buyers, and problems. This is where connections turn into action. This meeting is for serious real estate investors nationwide, and we’re known for our high-content, real-life education and our nationwide community of dealmakers. Members and non-members at all levels are welcome. Register below to reserve your seat. Remember, to actually reserve your seat, you have to go **[HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=In-Person-Columbus-Meeting-How-I-Get-Private-Lenders-and-Partners-to-Fund-My-Deals-14-6-2-2026)** and register on our website!

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-columbus-online-tickets-1988563717610?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - +971504724873 ( WhatsApp Only)

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

Join us as we get together to see the top-reviewed comedy-drama, I LOVE BOOSTERS! The film comes from writer/director Boots Riley and follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: The film follows a group of shoplifters who take aim at a cutthroat fashion maven. It is written/directed by Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You) and stars Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, and Demi Moore. BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: I Love Boosters was the opening film at this year’s SXSW Festival and premiered to rave reviews! It is currently earning a tremendous 97% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes where critics call it, “an unexpected celebration of friendship, community, and solidarity.” Others call the film “an exercise in radical empathy,” a “masterful” and “optimistic” film designed to “provoke discussion” while making the audience laugh. TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4lPRISgr9c) SUMMER OF ICE CREAM: GRAETER’S! Established way back in 1870 in Cincinnati, this historic, family-owned brand is famous for their delicious small batch ice cream and any chocolate chunk flavors! They are currently the only commercial ice cream maker using the French Pot method that they’ve been using since they first opened! Plus, those chocolate chunks, oh my goodness! Vegan options are available. PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Advance ticket purchase not required for this theater but Showtime and complete details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan