I’ve been in Poole for about four months now, and in that time I’ve mainly been insanely busy writing copy for a number of public sector clients, some tech startups, a global car brand and a couple of charities. So I haven’t had much time to get out and meet people. But I did make a little time to attend two events: Dorset Digital and MeetDraw.

Dorset Digital is a bit like the Farm back in Brighton. They’re a bunch of people who meet once a month in pubs around Dorset. Their blurb is:

“We’re an informal community of web and software professionals.
We meet once a month for a chat at a local pub, close to a train line in Dorset.”

I’ve made it to two of their meet-ups and have enjoyed chatting to other digital types. The Poole events seem to be quite small in terms of turnout, but as a freelancer who currently works from home it’s great to get out and chat to people who are working in similar ways.

MeetDraw was a much livelier affair. The event took over a bar on the end of Bournemouth pier and was packed with all kinds of digital makers. It’s always a little daunting to stroll into a room full of people that you don’t know – but everyone was very friendly and welcoming, so I soon felt at home.

I’m looking forward to more excuses to drink during the week meet local people.

I also learnt about the imminent launch of an open device lab – quite likely a boon to anyone making mobile apps or websites.

MeetDraw

Dorset Digital

Bournemouth Open Device Lab