Have you heard of ‘Speed Friending’? If you haven’t, chances are you soon will. It’s a new craze creating a buzz around our region and works on a similar principle to Speed Dating. The idea arose after busy working mums and budding entrepreneurs Caroline Warren and Nikki Atkinson quickly discovered that socialising as a mother is a whole new ball game compared to socialising before having children.
The duo decided to do something about it and Pop-Up Mums Events was born. Their aim is to help parents enjoy some much-needed me-time without compromising other commitments, but to also help re-establish a support network with like-minded people right on their doorstep.
From weekend breakfast and cinema clubs to entertain the kids while mums indulge in grown-up conversation or enjoy a beauty treatment with a technician on hand next door, to their innovative Mums Wear Heels event which sees local fashion stylists, make-up artists, hair consultants and even fitness and nutritional experts come together under one roof and give guests one to one advice. ‘Pop-Up Mums is about encouraging mums to put time aside and remember that we are women who have interests outside of raising children and play dates at the park.’
Keen to understand women’s mental wellbeing more clearly, co-founders Caroline and Nikki also sought advice mental health charity Mind. As the duo explain, ‘hormones, sleep deprivation and the intensity of caring for a child 24/7 can quickly become overwhelming for mums, not to mention the challenges of having children at different times in life to others, or moving away from established friends.’ Understanding the importance of social inclusion and recognising that social isolation can contribute to stress, anxiety and lower self-esteem helped  ensure Pop-Up Mums is a safe and nurturing environment for mums of any age who might be feeling out of the loop and in need a of a support network.
Pop-Up Mums’ debut ‘Speed Friending’ events will take place at The Library Bar, Durham City, Tuesday October 21st from 7.30pm-9.30pm.
Simply sign up for an event at popupmumsevents.com where you will be matched with potential friends by Pop-Up Mums after registration and a welcome talk on the day. After four minute rounds of lively chat with paired mums ‘Speed Dating style’, guests are invited to continue their conversations over refreshments and nibbles before getting a goodie bag to take home.
If you’re in need of a coffee, slice of cake and some proper conversation, or looking for a perfect excuse to get dressed up and enjoy a glass of wine with new friends, why not give Pop-Up Mums Events a try?