Strategic Networking: Female UK Mums' 2025 Event Calendar
- (Admin) The Thrivology Company
- Oct 13, 2024
- 11 min read
Strategic Networking for Ambitious Female Entrepreneurs in the UK (Especially Mums): Curating Your 2025 Event Calendar for Maximum Impact, Not Maximum Overwhelm
Ever felt that familiar wave of networking overwhelm? You see a list of events, each promising game-changing connections, & your diary (already bursting at the seams, especially if you’re juggling school runs, client calls, & the beautiful chaos of family life like me!) starts to feel like a ticking time bomb. Honestly, I’ve been there. I was meant to be at a big marketing event last week, all prepped & ready, but then my youngest spiked a fever & all plans went out the window! Life, eh? I remember one time I was heading to a breakfast event - one of those rare times when all four kids were miraculously co-operating - only to find Espresso (our younger, more enthusiastic Miniature Pinscher) had ‘rearranged’ my presentation notes into confetti. Talk about a last-minute pivot!
As female entrepreneurs, particularly as mothers, our time is arguably our most precious, non-renewable resource. We’re spinning so many plates – building empires, nurturing families (my four little ones, ranging from a teenager down to a baby, keep me on my toes, alongside our two lively Miniature Pinschers, Cappuccino & Espresso!), & trying to carve out a tiny bit of space for ourselves. So, when it comes to networking in 2025, I want to invite you to ditch the "attend everything" FOMO & embrace a more strategic, intentional, & frankly, joyful approach.
This isn’t just about finding events; it’s about curating a calendar that genuinely serves YOUR business, YOUR energy, & YOUR current goals. It’s about quality over quantity, always. Because let’s be honest, dragging yourself to an event that isn’t aligned, only to come home feeling drained & with a pile of irrelevant flyers, isn’t a good use of your incredible talent or energy. I remember one event where I felt completely out of place, made zero meaningful connections, & ended up wasting an entire evening. It taught me the hard way the importance of intentionality… At Femmeprenista, we believe in holistic support that understands the different stages of your entrepreneurial journey, from sparking an idea to scaling a thriving enterprise. If you're looking to understand more about how this tailored support works, you might find our insights on the Femmeprenista Spark Program a useful starting point.
The Problem with "Scattergun" Networking (Especially for Us Mums!)
Let’s be real. The scattergun approach to networking – trying to be everywhere, all the time – is a fast track to burnout. For us ambitious women, & especially for mums, it’s simply not sustainable. Why?
Time, Glorious Time (Or Lack Thereof!): Every hour spent at an event is an hour not spent on client work, strategy, with your family, or (dare I say it?) resting. I remember vividly trying to cram in networking events between school pick-ups & bedtime stories, often running on fumes. It made the whole experience feel pressured rather than productive.
The Energy Equation: Events can be incredibly energising… or incredibly draining. If you’re an introvert, or just shattered from a week of juggling (hello, my fellow plate-spinners!), the wrong event can zap your precious reserves. Prioritising your well-being & finding ways to 'Fuel' your entrepreneurial journey is crucial.
The "Beautiful Chaos" Factor: Life with kids is unpredictable. A last-minute school play, a poorly little one, or just the sheer mental load of managing a household means our best-laid plans can go awry. We need our commitments to be high-impact to justify the logistical gymnastics. I recall one particular week, juggling my MBA studies with a baby, a corporate role that felt increasingly misaligned, & the ever-present family needs – any event had to offer serious value to even make it onto the consideration list!
Intentionality is Your Superpower: Choosing Events That Truly Serve You
So, how do we shift from overwhelm to strategic impact? It all comes down to intentionality. For time-strapped female entrepreneurs, successful networking isn't about the quantity of events attended but the quality of strategic choices. This is where you take full personal responsibility & ownership for your networking ROI.
Ask yourself these questions before even looking at an event list:
What’s my current business stage & what do I need right now?
Are you a Foundation Builder? Perhaps you’re validating your idea, looking for your first few clients, or seeking to understand your niche more deeply. Your networking focus might be on making initial connections, finding collaborators, or learning from those a few steps ahead. Having a solid foundation, including a clear business plan, is key.
Are you a Scaling Leader? You’ve got traction, & now you’re looking at sustainable growth, attracting premium clients, building systems, or perhaps finding mentors or peers who understand the complexities of scaling.
What are my specific goals for attending networking events this year?
Is it lead generation? Finding collaborators for a project? Seeking mentorship? Building a supportive peer group? Learning a specific skill? Raising your profile?
Get crystal clear. Vague goals lead to vague results. Writing these down can be incredibly powerful. This kind of clear focus, understanding your 'why' before you dive into the 'what', is a cornerstone of building a resilient & successful business.
What kind of environment will best support these goals (and my sanity!)?
Do you thrive in large, bustling expos or smaller, more intimate gatherings? Do you prefer industry-specific events or broader entrepreneurial meetups?
Being ruthlessly honest here will save you so much time & energy down the line.
Networking as Tribe-Building: Finding Your People, Not Just Prospects
One of the most profound shifts in my own networking perspective came when I stopped seeing it as purely transactional & started viewing it as tribe-building. I vividly remember my time at the University of East London (UEL). After a false start at another university where I just didn't 'fit', UEL was where I found my academic footing & crucially, my people. It was a multicultural, vibrant environment where I felt understood & supported, especially as a young mother navigating my degree. That sense of belonging & shared experience was transformative.
Networking events, when chosen wisely, can offer that same magic. They become opportunities to:
Build Authentic Relationships: Move beyond the superficial exchange of business cards to find genuine connections with people who get you, who share your values, & who you can actually see yourself having a cuppa (or a G&T!) with.
Create a Supportive Peer Community: Entrepreneurship can be lonely. Finding peers who understand the unique rollercoaster of running your own business, who can celebrate your wins & offer a shoulder during tough times, is invaluable.
Uncover Collaboration Opportunities: Sometimes the most fruitful connections aren't direct clients but potential collaborators, partners, or even just brilliant minds who spark new ideas.
When you approach networking with a 'tribe-building' mindset, you’ll naturally gravitate towards events that foster genuine interaction & shared values – the kind of connections that truly enrich your business & your life. This is all part of developing your authentic brand & message, ensuring your interactions are genuine & attract the right people – a concept we explore deeply within Femmeprenista.
Maximising Your Return: Smart Prep, Engagement & Follow-Up
Okay, so you’ve chosen an event with intention. How do you make sure it’s time & energy well spent?
Before You Go: Setting the Stage for Success
Do Your Homework: Who’s speaking? Who else is likely to attend (check out the event hashtag on social media)? Are there specific people you’d like to connect with? A little prep goes a long way.
Sharpen Your Mindset & Focus: What’s your primary intention for this specific event? Remind yourself of your strengths & the value you bring. If networking nerves creep in (they get us all sometimes!), take a few deep breaths & visualise positive interactions. This kind of intentional preparation, focusing on your mindset & clarity, is a core part of how we approach sustainable business growth at Femmeprenista, through what we call Femmeprenista How We Work It helps you lead with confidence.
Craft Your "Tell Me About Yourself": Ditch the robotic elevator pitch. Think about how you can naturally & engagingly share what you do, who you help, & what you're passionate about in a way that invites conversation.
During the Event: Authentic Engagement is Key
Listen More, Talk Less: The best networkers are fantastic listeners. Ask open-ended questions & show genuine interest in others.
Quality Over Quantity: Aim for a few meaningful conversations rather than trying to meet everyone in the room. It’s better to connect deeply with two or three people than superficially with twenty.
Be Authentically YOU: Let your personality shine. People connect with real people. If you're naturally witty, let it show. If you're more reflective, own that.
Manage Your Energy: Especially for us busy mums, event days can be long. Take breaks if you need them. Step outside for fresh air. Have a bottle of water. Prioritising your well-being is crucial for sustained performance. Don’t feel guilty for needing a moment to recharge; your business needs you at your best, not running on empty.
After the Event: The Fortune is in the Follow-Up (But Make it Flow!)
This is where so many brilliant connections fizzle out! Don’t let it happen.
Have a Simple Follow-Up System: Whether it’s a quick personalised email, a LinkedIn connection request with a note referencing your conversation, or adding them to a specific list in your CRM – make it manageable. The key is to implement streamlined systems that make this part feel effortless, not another overwhelming task.
Personalise Your Approach: Generic follow-ups rarely land. Mention something specific you discussed to jog their memory & show you were paying attention.
Nurture for the Long Haul: Not every connection will lead to an immediate sale or collaboration, & that’s okay. Think about how you can continue to provide value & build the relationship over time. This is where ongoing communities really shine. Speaking of which, if you’re looking for a place to continue conversations, build those crucial relationships, & find year-round support from fellow female entrepreneurs beyond specific events, our free Femme:Connect Community Page is the perfect hub.
Our Femmeprenista-Curated Top 10 UK Networking Events for 2025 (And Why They Make the Cut)
Now, for the bit you’ve been waiting for! Please remember, specific dates for 2025 events are often announced later in 2024, so do your research closer to the time. This list focuses on types of events & well-regarded recurring ones that, from a Femmeprenista perspective, offer excellent strategic value for ambitious female entrepreneurs.
1. The Female Founders' Fest (Hypothetical Annual Summit)
Why it’s valuable: Specifically designed for women in business, fostering a strong sense of community, inspiration, & featuring practical workshops alongside networking. Usually a very supportive & uplifting atmosphere.
Who it's best for: Both Foundation Builders (for inspiration, foundational skills, & early connections) & Scaling Leaders (for higher-level connections & leadership insights).
Connections: Mentors, peers, potential collaborators, service providers who understand female-led businesses.
Actionable Tip: Connect with at least three speakers on LinkedIn before the event to start building relationships.
2. ScaleUp Arena UK (Recurring National Conference)
Why it’s valuable: Focuses on strategies for growth, innovation, & leadership. Often attracts investors & those serious about taking their business to the next level.
Who it's best for: Primarily Scaling Leaders, or ambitious Foundation Builders with a clear growth trajectory.
Connections: Potential investors, strategic partners, high-calibre peers, expert advisors.
Actionable Tip: Prepare a concise "investment one-pager" outlining your business and its growth potential to share with interested investors.
3. Digital & AI Innovators' Connect (Recurring Industry Event)
Why it’s valuable: Keeps you at the forefront of tech, digital marketing, & AI advancements – crucial for future-proofing your business & finding smart efficiencies.
Who it's best for: Scaling Leaders looking to leverage tech, & tech-savvy Foundation Builders.
Connections: Tech solution providers, digital marketing experts, forward-thinking peers, potential tech collaborators.
Actionable Tip: Identify one AI tool relevant to your business before attending & research companies at the event that offer training or implementation support.
4. The Purposeful Profit Gathering (Hypothetical Niche Conference)
Why it’s valuable: For entrepreneurs passionate about social impact, sustainability, & B-Corps. Connects you with like-minded founders who prioritise purpose alongside profit. As consumers increasingly seek out businesses aligned with their values (studies show that 72% of consumers are more likely to buy from a company that supports their values - https://www.accenture.com/us-en/insights/strategy/purpose-driven-companies), this is more important than ever.
Who it's best for: Founders at any stage whose business has a strong ethical or social mission.
Connections: Social impact investors, non-profit partners, ethical suppliers, a strong values-aligned community.
Actionable Tip: Prepare a short statement about your company's mission & impact, & identify three potential partners or collaborators before the event.
5. Creative Industries Collab-Net (Recurring Sector-Specific Event)
Why it’s valuable: Tailored for entrepreneurs in creative fields (design, media, arts, &c). Often features showcases, opportunities for artistic collaboration, & advice specific to creative business models.
Who it's best for: Creative entrepreneurs at all stages.
Connections: Fellow creatives for collaboration, specialist suppliers, agency contacts, gallery or platform owners.
Actionable Tip: Bring a portfolio of your work (physical or digital) to showcase during networking sessions.
6. Your Local Chamber of Commerce Annual Business Expo (Regional)
Why it’s valuable: Fantastic for building strong local connections, raising your profile in your immediate community, & finding local suppliers or clients. Often very accessible.
Who it's best for: Foundation Builders especially, but also Scaling Leaders looking to strengthen local ties.
Connections: Local businesses, community leaders, potential local clients & partners.
Actionable Tip: Offer a special discount or promotion exclusive to attendees to drive immediate local business.
7. The Entrepreneur's Wellbeing & Resilience Retreat (Hypothetical Specialist Event)
Why it’s valuable: Focuses on the founder, offering strategies for mental wellbeing, preventing burnout, & building resilience – crucial for long-term success & something we champion at Femmeprenista. Often combines learning with restorative practices.
Who it's best for: All entrepreneurs, especially those feeling the strain of the juggle or on the verge of burnout.
Connections: Holistic practitioners, wellness experts, a supportive community focused on founder wellbeing.
Actionable Tip: Schedule a follow-up call with a wellness expert you connect with at the retreat to integrate their advice into your routine.
8. E-commerce Evolution Expo (Recurring Trade Show/Conference)
Why it’s valuable: Essential for product-based businesses selling online. Covers platforms, logistics, international selling, marketing for e-commerce, & the latest trends.
Who it's best for: E-commerce entrepreneurs at all stages.
Connections: Platform providers, shipping & fulfilment partners, e-commerce marketing specialists, fellow online sellers.
Actionable Tip: Attend sessions focused on one specific area of your e-commerce business (e.g., shipping) & identify three actionable changes to implement immediately.
9. The Aspiring Entrepreneur Launchpad Live (Hypothetical Early-Stage Focused Event)
Why it’s valuable: Geared towards those in the very early stages – idea validation, crafting a business plan, understanding funding options, & even first pitching opportunities.
Who it's best for: Primarily Foundation Builders.
Connections: Early-stage investors/angels, startup mentors, incubator/accelerator programs, peers at the same starting point.
Actionable Tip: Practice a 60-second pitch before attending & aim to deliver it to at least three different people for feedback.
10. Global Growth Gateway (UK Chapter of an International Forum - Hypothetical)
Why it’s valuable: For businesses with ambitions to expand internationally or attract global clients. Offers insights into export, international marketing, & cross-cultural business.
Who it's best for: Scaling Leaders with established products/services ready for wider markets.
Connections: International trade advisors, export agencies, entrepreneurs with global experience, potential overseas partners.
Actionable Tip: Research one specific international market relevant to your business & identify three key challenges or opportunities to discuss with experts.
Remember, this is a starting point. The best events for you will be those that light you up, align with your goals, & offer a genuine chance to build your tribe.
Making It Work for YOU: A Final Word on Strategic Choices
As you look ahead to 2025, I encourage you not to just fill your diary, but to consciously curate it. Think of your networking calendar as a strategic asset. Each event should be a deliberate investment of your precious time & energy, chosen because it moves you closer to your vision.
This might mean attending fewer events overall, but getting far more value from the ones you do choose. It’s about working smart, not just hard – a philosophy that underpins everything we do here at Femmeprenista. We understand that growing a business, especially as a busy mother, requires more than just good ideas; it needs tailored strategies, supportive systems, & a mindset that champions sustainable success. If you're wondering how to implement growth strategies that truly fit your life & business stage, we offer support through our Spark program for Foundation Builders. You can explore how we can help you Work With Us to flourish.
So, what’s the one type of event from this list, or one you’ve been considering, that you’ll research further for 2025, based on your current goals? Take that first intentional step.
Strategic networking isn't just about what happens in the room; it's about the thoughtful choices you make before you even get there, & the meaningful connections you nurture long after. Here’s to a 2025 filled with impactful conversations, supportive communities, & business growth that feels aligned and energising!
Ready to build your tribe & get strategic support year-round? Join our free Femme:Connect Community Page – it’s where the conversation continues & real connections flourish beyond the event floor. It’s a fantastic place to share your event experiences & get recommendations too!
Carlene Nisbett
Founder & CEO, Femmeprenista (Coach, Mentor, Speaker)
Wife, Mother of four, Business Owner, PhD Researcher, Pet mom, Plant mom, 5'0" tall Passionate Multitasker & Wine Lover, You get the drift
P.S. This workbook is just the beginning!
If you're looking for a supportive community of like-minded female entrepreneurs who get it, why not pop over and say hello?
We'd love to welcome you!
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