Introducing Gather Round’s New Year Offer*
Are you a freelancer working from home craving some connection? Or are you a small creative business already at a co-working space but in need of a change? Become a member at Gather Round in Bristol or Bath before Feb 28th and you’ll get 30% off your membership for 3 x months. Interested? Get in touch with one of our community managers to book a tour.
More than a co-working space, Gather Round is a thriving creative community. Our members are frequent collaborators – it’s what happens when you bring people in the same industry together. Creativity at Gather Round takes many forms, from designers, copywriters, and illustrators to developers, tech innovators, and even a cartographer. Together, they inspire, challenge, and support each other, making every day at Gather Round a spark for new ideas. It’s a place where connections turn into projects, and ideas turn into reality.
*Offer available until 28th February 2026.
‘We want you to see firsthand the positive impact a creative community can have, not just professionally but beyond work too.’
Jason Smith
Gather Round Co-Founder
Packed member events calendar
We’ll be continuing our monthly member events into 2026, including family breakfasts, campfire talks, group coaching, and yoga. This month, we’re also launching two new members only events: Community Sessions and Member Mics!
Community Sessions are relaxed, monthly get-togethers with other members in your space. Think drink-and-draws, board games, picnics, or maybe a trip to the pub. It’s a chance to get to know your fellow members and connect over some snacks and a few drinks (if you fancy). This month to kick it off we’re taking all our members to the pub, first round is on us!
Next week, we’ll be hosting our first ‘Member Mic’ event. Member Mic gives our members the chance to share what they’re working on with fellow creatives – showcasing wins, getting feedback on tricky projects, or help others with theirs in a relaxed, supportive session. It’s in moments like these when collaborations are born.
Our buzzing events are free for all members, included in all membership packages. Alongside the extra-curricular fun, members also enjoy a wide range of discounts with local independent partners such as Pizzucci, Bosco, Soul Spa, and British Blankets. It’s just one more way Gather Round sets itself apart from other coworking spaces.
Whether you’re a freelancer or a small creative business looking for an inspiring place to work, we offer a range of membership packages – including part-time and full-time options, fixed desks, and private studios. Get in touch with our community managers to book a tour. We’d love to meet you.
Terms and conditions apply to the 30% offer, see full details on this page.
- This offer is for new membership sign-ups and applicable on the following membership packages across all locations: Part-time Flexi, Full-time Flexi, Flexi Plus, and Resident. The offer does not apply to Virtual and Virtual Plus memberships.
- New Part-time Flexi, Full-time Flexi, Flexi Plus and Resident members need to sign up for a 3 month minimum term and they’ll receive 30% off their first 3 months. After the first three months, the contract will switch to a standard 30 day rolling contract at full price.
- For members starting mid-month, the first invoice will be charged pro-rata.
- Contracts have to be signed between the 10th January to 28th February 2026 and start dates specified between 12th January and 31st March accordingly.
- The offer is issued only once the contract is signed and deposit received.
- Flexi Plus and Resident members only: includes 4 x hours of free access to our Production Spaces each month as part of the offer. Please note that our production spaces are located in Brunswick Square, Bristol only. Bookings need to be made in advance via our Events Manager.
- This offer cannot be used retrospectively. The dates specified above apply.
- Gather Round Limited reserves the right to revoke the offer and/or to update the terms and conditions at any time. Final qualification for the offer is at the Community Manager’s discretion.
- This offer cannot be applied to previous memberships or contracts, is non-transferrable, has no cash value and cannot be redeemed for cash or combined with any other offer.
Thanks to all the love and support from our amazing community, we have been named the 8th best workspace in the UK by the 2025 Tallys, and the highest ranked workspace in the South West.
All there is to say is thank you. To our members, our supporters, our incredible team, and to everyone who makes Square Works what it is.
When we started Square Works way back in 2019, we could never have imagined the amazing community we would build over the years – to be ranked so highly amongst many other incredible workspaces across the country is a privilege, and we couldn’t have done it without you.
To find out more about The Tallys and why Square Works has been ranked #8 in the UK, click the link below.
FIND OUT MORE
Here are 10 things you might not (but definitely should) know about Square Works…
1. Square Works is housed in a Grade II Listed Georgian townhouse
Square Works is tucked inside a beautifully preserved Georgian building on Berkeley Square – one of Clifton’s most iconic addresses. From the outside, it’s all Bristolian charm; inside, it’s a thoughtfully designed, modern workspace filled with art, natural light, and sleek interiors that blend heritage with contemporary flair.
2. It’s the only co-working space in Bristol with a private members’ club
Square Works is part of The Square Club, a private members’ club for creatives and professionals. This unique connection gives you access to exclusive events, industry talks, and a stylish bar and restaurant. Even better? You can order restaurant-quality food and have it delivered right to your desk.
3. You can work from a ‘Secret Garden’
Hidden behind The Square Club is a tranquil terrace that’s the perfect spot for a quiet call, an al fresco meeting, or just soaking up the sun with your laptop and a coffee in hand.
4. The events calendar is packed – and many are free for members
From creative breakfasts to pitch nights and Friday Pilates, Square Works hosts regular events to help members connect, grow, and get inspired. It’s networking without the awkwardness – and you never know who you’ll meet over coffee.
5. Members get 24/7 access — yes, even on Sundays
If you have an office or a Dedicated Desk at Square Works, you’re not limited to the standard 9 – 5. Whether you prefer early mornings or late nights, you gain access 24/7 so you can work when it suits you – even on weekends and Bank Holidays.
6. There’s a curated art collection
Art is part of the Square Works experience. You’ll find pieces from local and UK-based artists throughout the space – creating an inspiring, gallery-like atmosphere. Plus, head next door to The Square Club for the latest seasonal installations.
7. Memberships are built for flexibility
Whether you’re a freelancer, founder, or part of a growing team, Square Works has an option for you – from hot desking to private offices. You can scale up, scale down, or shift between spaces as your needs change, without being locked into a long-term lease.
8. Unlimited refreshments and weekly ‘Square Works Nibbles’
Members enjoy unlimited, high-quality coffee, tea, hot chocolate and more. But the real treat? Every Wednesday, the in-house chef surprises members with freshly made sweet or savoury bites. It’s the perfect midweek pick-me-up.
9. Dog-friendly work space
Square Works welcomes well-behaved dogs – because work is better with a furry friend nearby. It adds to the relaxed, homely atmosphere and means you don’t have to leave your pup behind when you’re working long hours.
10. It’s a true community – not just a desk
What sets Square Works apart is the atmosphere. Whether you’re chatting in the kitchen, attending an event, or collaborating on a project, you’re not just renting a desk – you’re joining a supportive, inspiring community of creatives, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
To book a tour of Bristol’s Best Workspace, get in touch with us today via:
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: 0117 322 6635
Enquiry Form: Contact Us
Or, if you’re in the area, feel free to pop in and chat with our friendly team!
If you you missed the October offer at Gather Round, fear not – this November, for BCI members only we’re extending the ‘First month free’ discount!
Our BCI offer is available across all Gather Round locations and all membership packages. Whether you’re curious about Part Time or Full Time Flexi memberships, or prefer a fixed desk with Flexi Plus, or if you are looking for a studio for your team, we’d love to show you around.
Our co-working spaces at Brunswick Square, Trinity Church and Cigar Factory each have their own unique energy – but it’s the community that truly makes them special. Collaborations between members happen daily, just by bringing creative minds together.
Created by creatives for creatives, Gather Round is more than a co-working space, it’s a growing network of like-minded professionals who go to work every day and sit, write, design, consult and hang out. Soaking up the energy, passion and positivity from the ideas and expertise of others.
For more info on the different options, book a tour – we’d love to meet you.
Terms & conditions:
- This offer is for new membership sign-ups and applicable on the following membership packages across all locations: Part-time Flexi, Full-time Flexi, Flexi Plus, Resident and Studio memberships. The first month free offer does not apply to Virtual and Virtual Plus memberships.
- New Part-time Flexi, Full-time Flexi, Flexi Plus and Resident members need to sign up for a 3 month minimum term and they’ll receive their first FULL month for free. After the 3 x months contract switches to the standard 30 x day rolling contract.
- New Studio members need to sign up for a 12 month minimum term and they’ll receive their first FULL month for free.
- For members starting mid month, the first invoice will be charged pro-rata.
- Contracts have to be signed between the 1st to 30th November 2025 and start dates specified between 1st November to the 31st December 2025.
- The offer is issued only once the contract is signed and deposit received.
- Flexi Plus, Resident and Studio Memberships only: includes 4 x hours of free access to our Production Spaces each month as part of the first month free offer. Please note that our production spaces are located in Brunswick Square, Bristol only. Bookings need to be made in advance via our Events Manager.
- This offer cannot be used retrospectively. The dates specified above apply.
- Gather Round Limited reserves the right to revoke the offer and/or to update the terms and conditions at any time. Final qualification for the offer is at the Community Manager’s discretion.
- This offer cannot be applied to previous memberships or contracts, is non-transferrable, has no cash value and cannot be redeemed for cash or combined with any other offer.
EDIT: Tickets flew out in just a few hours, email [email protected] to put your name on the waiting list.
We’re so excited to be back at Brunswick Sq on 25th September for the next instalment of Gather Round Presents. Our free event series aimed at giving something back to the amazing community of creatives that we’re so lucky to be a part of in the South West. We’ll have delicious free pizza from Pizzucci, a fully stocked bar plus some other freebies to give away on the night.
This time around we’ll be looking at all of the incredible benefits nature gives us, creatively, physically, mentally. Creative By Nature will bring you insights from a curated panel of experts across the nature and wellbeing space. You know we like to keep things honest & low key, so expect some free-flowing conversations and gems of advice to help you feel more connected. As always there’ll be plenty of time to meet and chat with other like-minded creatives! So, who’s on the panel…
Jeffrey Bowman – Brand & Creative Director
Based in the Lake District, Jeffrey is a Brand & Creative Director and is an active participant in shaping outdoor culture today, authoring the industry defining books The Outsiders (2015) and The New Outsiders (2019) – his career has been shaped by his love of nature and spending time outside.
With over a decade of experience working in-house as CD at Millican backpacks, to more recently setting up his own studio in 2022 – working with brands like Bergahus, Osprey and Atom Packs. With a deep understanding of brand culture, outdoor and lifestyle consumers and creative storytelling, Jeffrey has collaborated with brands who want to change the world. His mission is to encourage others to spend more time outside so that we form a deeper connection to the world around us and the place we call home.
Leanne Anyinsah – Founder, Soul Trail Wellbeing
Leanne’s relationship with nature has always been special, bringing peace, connection and joy to her life. During lock down whilst struggling with her own mental health, nature helped Leanne reconnect with herself. As a therapist, she naturally wanted to share the benefits she found during this time, with others. Knowing the huge lack of representation and barriers to nature-based support, she launched Soul Trail Wellbeing CIC – a non profit organisation aimed at improving nature connection, health and helping to make the outdoors more inclusive by offering hikes, therapeutic nature programmes and workshops. Soul Trail Wellbeing is part of the Green Social Prescribing scheme; supporting people to engage in nature-based activities to improve their mental health, physical wellbeing and reducing loneliness.
Mose-Issie, Co-Founder, Sunflower Collective
Mose-Issie is a social entrepreneur, coach and community leader passionate about providing spaces for people to develop, heal and thrive. As Co-Founder of Sunflower Collective C.I.C, a community organisation that helps young people and families thrive in nature, her work focuses on creating safe nourishing and culturally relevant spaces at the intersection of community empowerment, education and social justice. Mo’s work also expands into workshops, mentorships programmes and support for initiatives that centre the lived experiences of young Black African and Caribbean communities in Bristol and beyond.
Nature has always been a stabilising influence in Mo’s life. A place for healing, introspection and rejuvenation. She sees it as a teacher and a mirror, reminding us of the beauty of growth, rest and transition. Sunflower Collective uses outdoor spaces to foster play, creativity, wellbeing and cultural pride, whether through gardening, storytelling or just being together under the open sky.
Maria Fernandez Garcia – Founder, Healing Weeds
Maria Fernandez Garcia is an outdoor educator, student medical herbalist and nature lover. As the founder of Healing Weeds, she is dedicated to reviving traditional knowledge of wild foods and medicinal plants through learning their cultural history and spending time together outside. Although Maria’s connection to nature wasn’t always strong, over the last 10 years it has grown significantly and she now regularly finds moments of peace and stillness when outside. Being able to share different avenues with people, allowing them to experience peace and joy in nature, is something Maria holds close, in particular sharing her knowledge about wild plants.
Charlotte Horler – Founder, Nula
Over the past 12 years, Charlotte’s education and career has blended psychology, behavioural science and sustainability. She’s worked with global retailers such as Boots and ASOS, impact-led creative agencies, and pioneering founders to shift the way we feel about sustainability and embed best practices across the workforce. Charlotte moved back to the UK after living in a forest protection site in south-east Kenya for three and a half years. It was this sudden disconnection from nature and the impact it had on her mental health that sparked the idea for Nula as it is today.
Charlotte didn’t grow up especially connected to nature. It just wasn’t part of daily life in London. But living in a forest reserve, and later walking the Camino after burning out, completely shifted things. Nature’s become not only something she likes, it’s become something she needs which is at the heart of what she’s building with Nula.
Natasha Bergg – Community Arts Facilitator & Producer
Natasha is a creative facilitator and producer, working on programmes and projects that empower marginalised communities through playful participatory theatre and multidisciplinary practices. Natasha is currently part of the national engagement team at WWT, the charity for wetlands and wildlife, and is also producing a disability-led community engagement programme for The Egg theatre in Bath, inspired by the book – The Secret Garden.
Natasha finds peace, healing and new perspectives in wild nature, and moved from London to Bristol two years ago to be closer to green and blue spaces and more easily find wide skies. She is deeply interested in how nature connection can inspire feelings of freedom, playfulness and empowerment, and is starting to explore this in her creative practice.
Natasha will be running a group version of The Artists Way by Julia Cameron from Wednesday 14th January at Brunswick Square, and will be bringing a nature-based twist to the course. If you’d like to know more about the course, sign up to our newsletter for updates!
Bonnie Middleton – Marketing Manager, Enviral
Over the past decade, Bonnie has worked with multiple B Corps, exploring how businesses across adventure, travel, and retail are driving positive impact. This experience has fueled her passion for storytelling, bringing sustainability to life and growing communities both online and in-person.
Bonnie is now the Marketing Manager (and Nature Champion) at Enviral, a creative agency on a mission to stop global yawning. Bonnie believes creativity and stories have the power to connect people to the climate crisis in a way that sparks action. Purpose and impact are at the heart of everything she does, and she’s dedicated to using storytelling to inspire change.
Bonnie grew up on the wild Welsh coastline, where her family ran an adventure business guiding people through Pembrokeshire National Park’s caves and hidden corners. Her twenties were spent chasing waves across Costa Rica, Indonesia, and beyond. These experiences deepened her love for the natural world and exposed her to both its awe-inspiring beauty and fragility. Bonnie believes that fostering pathways to nature connection is a powerful tool for change. When people feel truly connected to the natural world, they’re inspired to protect it.
We can’t wait to hear from this mega panel in a few weeks time. If you want to be a part of the magic, get your ticket here!
If you’re interested in hiring one of our spaces for an event of your own, get in touch with our Events Manager, Hannah over on [email protected]. Check out a few pictures from our previous events below!
Happy World Entrepreneurs’ Day!
The UK has experienced profound economic change over recent years which has brought challenges and new opportunities to the creative sector. As a result, many individuals have set out on the freelance and small business path for the first time.
Reasons include redundancies following the pandemic, new working relationships with employers through increased remote working and a desire to achieve a better work/life balance.
Whatever the reason to go it alone, Bristol Creative Industries (BCI) is here to give freelancers, startups and small business owners the perfect platform to share skills and build connections.
There are many benefits of a Bristol Creative Industries individual and freelancers membership. See what some members have to say below.
To meet fellow freelancers and companies that employ them, join our freelancer networking drinks on 9 September at the Square Club in Bristol. It’s free including a complimentary drink if you’re a member.
Essential to the creative community
Heather Wright, co-chair of Bristol Creative Industries, said:
“The trend in the creative sector is to have small and agile agencies relying on a bank of specialist freelance talent. We have seen the freelance sector grow year on year in the last decade.
“The benefits are that, here in Bristol, we have a huge pool of freelancers covering a spectrum of creative disciplines, from coding, filmmaking, music composition, animation, illustration, copywriting to recording and directing podcasts, to name just a few. Name a niche creative service you need for your business and, chances are, there will be someone to help right here on your doorstep.
“And these freelancers and startups are key to Bristol’s vibrant creative community; it means small businesses can use a wide range of professional creative talent. Freelancers are providing the resource of a conglomerate for the SME and Bristol Creative Industries can really help with these connections.
“All individual, freelance and startup members get a profile in our online member directory where you can showcase your work. Freelancers can also take advantage of discounted tickets to BCI events, plus the opportunity to self-publish content on our newsfeed. And don’t forget the membership perks, including restaurant offers and money off business support. The real value however is in the business connections you can make.
“But don’t take my word for it, here are a few comments from our members on their experiences.”
Carys Tait, independent illustrator and designer
“I’ve been a member of Bristol Creative Industries for a good number of years now. I joined mainly to be included in the directory, for which I think the cost as an individual is very affordable. It makes absolute sense to be listed in a directory where clients search for creatives, outside of their own sector or network.
“In terms of other benefits of membership, I have attended various events and they have been very good. These include evening drinks meet-ups and the members’ lunch.
“I’d say that as a creative freelancer in any field, joining BCI is a great thing to do if you have the chance. Additionally, the team at BCI have always been very friendly and supportive!”
View Carys Tait’s profile.
Lara Candido Porter, copywriter
“When I worked in an agency, we used the BCI member directory to find the best regional talent. I always felt that I could trust the freelancers we found there – they had an added credibility, took their specialism seriously, and added value to projects. So when I started out as a freelance copywriter I knew I had to be listed as a member myself!
“The events are also really insightful and enjoyable – members’ lunch, sketchnoting workshop, and the ‘simple tips, smart ideas’ talk with Erica Wolfe-Murray to name a few. Plus, still to this day it’s a lovely feeling to receive an email that starts with: ‘Hi Lara, I found your details via Bristol Creative Industries and…’.
“What would I say to freelancers thinking of joining BCI? To quote one of my favourite taglines: Just do it.”
View Lara Candido Porter’s profile.
Oliver Edwards, photographer
“I joined Bristol Creative Industries many years ago looking for a list of potential new clients. In my first year I got two new clients, one a national charity. Every year I regularly get new jobs via the website and these mostly turn into long term relationships. I now work with many of the major agencies in Bristol who are also members and actively involved with BCI. The work I generate covers my BCI freelance membership costs so joining was a no-brainer.”
View Oliver Edwards’ profile.
Luke Maitland, Animated Magic
“I initially joined Bristol Creative Industries as a way to network and get to know other creatives in the Bristol area. Regular members’ lunches allow members to meet, providing a friendly, informal opportunity to connect. The team running BCI are passionate about helping to support the creative community; always friendly, and they have been a great help in connecting my business with potential creative partners and business contacts.
“I believe just being part of BCI has provided my animation studio with additional credibility.
“Overall, Bristol Creative Industries is extremely well run, positive and a joy to be a part of; the membership offers amazing value for money.”
View Animated Magic’s profile.
Jenny Johnson, freelance designer
“Within two weeks of signing up I had my first enquiry from a new client”
“I regularly get contacted by new clients thanks to my listing in BCI’s member directory. Freelance membership is great value for money!”
View Jenny Johnson’s profile.
Get noticed with a Bristol Creative Industries individual and freelancers membership
If you’re a freelancer or startup business owner and want to raise your profile to get the work you want, find out more about a individual and freelancers membership to Bristol Creative Industries
You have the option of paying a one-off annual fee of £45+VAT or a rolling subscription of £4.50+VAT per month. What are you waiting for? Sign up today and be a real part of Bristol’s creative network.
To meet fellow freelancers and companies that employ them, join our freelancer networking drinks on 9 September at the Square Club in Bristol. It’s free including a complimentary drink if you’re a member.
Becoming a member of Bristol Creative Industries brings many benefits. We regularly add new opportunities so here is a guide to the latest benefits you can enjoy by signing up. This post is regularly updated.
Join Bristol Creative Industries here.
Appear in the member directory
Showcase your best work and attract new clients with a company profile in the Bristol Creative Industries member directory. The directory receives lots of visits every month from people looking for services from creative businesses.
Self-publish content
Got some business advice or news to share? As a Bristol Creative Industries member you can self-publish content on our website and it will automatically appear on your member profile. We upgrade great content to the newsfeed and homepage, while four posts by members are included in our monthly email newsletter.
To get an idea of the content topics that do well, here are the top 30 most popular posts by members in 2024.
Bristol Creative Industries member Jessica Morgan from Carnsight Communications discussed the benefits of posting content in this interview.
Advertise jobs on the BCI jobs board
The Bristol Creative Industries jobs board attracts thousands of job hunters every month. Business members can post unlimited free job adverts, saving you on average £3,500 per candidate.
Piers Tincknell, co-founder of Atomic Smash, is one of BCI’s longest serving members and he told us in a member profile interview how he regularly uses the jobs board to recruit new employees.
Attend members’ lunches
BCI’s monthly members’ lunches are a perfect opportunity for members to catch up with fellow members and the BCI team.
Everyone has a slot of up to three minutes to tell the others a little about who they are and what they do and share any news and/or challenges. You don’t need to fill the full three minutes. We usually find some common themes emerge to discuss over the course of the session. It’s all very informal with no need to stand up and present slides.
The events are free to attend for members, take place at The Square Club in Bristol and include a free buffet lunch.
Check the events section of details of the next lunches.
Discounts for keynotes, workshops and other events
Our flagship keynote events and workshops feature world class speakers sharing their expertise. It’s a unique opportunity to access valuable insights for growing your business. Bristol Creative Industries members receive a ticket discount.
An example of a keynote event is the brilliant annual presentation on social media trends delivered by Drew Benvie, founder of global social media consultancy Battenhall. The next event from Drew is on 21 January 2026 in Bristol. Sign up here.
Our regular freelancer networking drinks events in Bristol are free with a free drink for members. It takes place several times during the year. The next event is on 10 February 2026. Sign up here.
Keen an eye on the events section for the latest events. You can also sign up to the monthly BCI Bulletin to be notified of events.
Attend and host Wake Up Call
Wake Up Call is a member exclusive live webinar that takes place every other Friday at 8.30-9am. The content is delivered by members for members.
Attending the free event gives you access to valuable insights from your fellow members and if you host a Wake Up Call, you can share your expertise and attract potential new clients.
See details for upcoming Wake Up Call events in our events section.
If you’re a BCI member and you’d like to deliver a presentation on a topic of your choice during a Wake Up Call, email Dan Martin.
Join our LinkedIn group with over 11,000 members
The Bristol Creative Industries LinkedIn group has more than 11,000 members and is one of the biggest creative sector focused groups on the platforms.
Anyone can join the group but posting promotional content, events, jobs (that appear on the BCI site) etc is for BCI members only. See the group rules in the group description for more details.
Join the group here.
Equity, diversity and inclusion training
Research shows that diverse teams are more creative problem solvers, bringing fresh perspectives to solutions, against the echo-chamber effect that results when people in a business come from too-similar backgrounds. With a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, employees feel valued and that they belong.
To help Bristol Creative Industries members achieve this, we have partnered with The Hobbs Consultancy to provide on demand equity, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) e-learning.
The CPD certified online course consists of modules to help you bring about positive change in your business, understand the key challenges in the way for different groups, and explore your own biases and how to overcome them.
The training modules take an in-depth look at different diversity and inclusion topics: race, disability, LGBTQ+, neurodiversity, gender (split into female leadership, masculinity, gender identity), age and social mobility in the workplace.
The price of the training for BCI members is £120+VAT. All profits will be ploughed back into our youth engagement activity.
To access this brilliant training opportunity, log into your Bristol Creative Industries account and click on the ‘members’ training’ section.
Attend exclusive roundtables
We host regular roundtables for agency leaders to discuss strategic challenges. These events are vital for us to hear from the member community about the key issues you are facing and how we can help. A roundtable on funding led to us creating this popular and regularly updated guide to the latest finance on offer to creative businesses.
If you are interested in getting involved with future roundtables, email Alli Nicholas.
Other benefits
We regularly deliver other special member benefits.
To stay updated on the latest benefits, sign up to the monthly BCI Bulletin.
Discounts on workspace, hotels and more
Reductions on co-working spaces, meeting rooms, hotel accommodation, a recruitment strategy review and a coffee subscription are just some of the many discounts and offers we’ve negotiated for members.
Join Bristol Creative Industries here.
If you have any questions about membership, email Alli Nicholas
On a Wednesday evening in June – we hosted our first ‘Gather Round Presents’ event at the Trinity Church Gather Round. It was one for the books…
Whether it was the promise of an honest, open conversation about the challenges of working in the creative industries, or a need for the answer to the mutually felt question “Am I the only one feeling the pressure?” – tickets flew out in record time.
At 6.30pm we opened the doors to The Vestry and a new community of creatives flooded in, the vibe was electric. Backlit by a perfect summer’s evening and armed with their own stories to share, we saw people making instant connections, sharing contact details and engaging in deep conversations before we’d even sat down. This is something we all needed to talk about.
After a glass of free prosecco and some delicious free pizza from our partners Bosco, we moved through to The Great Hall bringing an air of focus with us, as our all-Gather Round-member panel took their seats to share their wisdom.
In the face of adversity, be elastic
Bend, stretch, but don’t fold… become elastic. Your business depends on it.
A recurring theme from each of our speakers and touched upon in more depth by Jamie Ellul of Supple Studio, was Covid, a trying time to say the least. Jamie discussed how those turbulent years almost sent Supple down – something that, back then, was easy to take personally. This feeling was only made slightly more manageable due to the fact that his friends, colleagues & clients were all feeling it too. Jamie openly discussed how this felt like a great exercise in cutting the umbilical cord, once he realised how much of his self worth was wrapped up in the business. Something that he has since tackled through therapy and looking inward. This raw honesty was something that fuelled the rest of the evening, with equally inspirational testimony from the rest of our panel.
Admit when something isn’t working
Tim Miness, Creative Director of Osborne Pike, shared a few mantras with the audience that have helped him stay flexible, creative and resilient. A statement that resonated was not being afraid to admit when something isn’t working. Bend the rules. What decision do I need to make in order to change my situation? How can I tap into that magic creativity and find the answer to this problem? Not only that, but how can I ask the right questions? Tim’s advice – hire people that are better than you. Expand that collective creativity, and together, you’ll find the right question.
Honesty is the best policy, and we definitely heard that from our panel. There were murmurs from the audience mentioning how refreshing it is to hear people being open about their downfalls, where they could improve and how they got through hard times. A refreshing perspective on managing a business, compared to older, more traditional ways of thinking.
Tim shared his dislike for the phrase “Fake it til you make it”. Something we’ve all encountered and tried to embody in some way, as we try to make sense of our place in the world. Sharing his love for the sentiment of trying new things, but ultimately landing on, why do we feel like we have to pretend to know what we’re doing? Perhaps one of his mantra’s “Learn it til you earn it” feels like a more sensitive way to approach things, although (in his own words) “…it doesn’t quite have the same punch.”
A few tears were shed, and then we smiled
We heard Robin Worrall, Creative Director of Rednine open up about his heart-first approach to his work. Something he’s cultivated after pulling his business apart and asking the question, what am I really trying to achieve here? After getting the nudge he needed from a post he saw on LinkedIn, with the sticky phrase “old keys don’t open new doors”, he knew he needed to reposition and rebuild his entire creative offer. Looking at what he needed to keep, what he was prepared to lose and what would be great to add. Robin compounded this with the sentiment that being creative is emotional, and that’s something he pushes through his work, to find the heart of brands and tell their story with authenticity. It’s safe to say, a few tears were shed.
Ask for help, reach out, learn from others, share failures and compare challenges. It all starts with… “Can I chat to you about something?”.
Looking inwards
Robin left us with a perfect segue into Kate Southerby’s interactive section of the evening. Coaching with the brain in mind, Kate is a facilitator of insights. She guided the audience through her 7 step plan, asking everyone to score themselves out of 10 for each section: Sleep, Movement, Focus, Introspection, Daydreaming, Play, Connection. There was an overwhelming consensus that we aren’t looking after our brains as well as we could be, so this was a welcome exercise that left the audience with plenty of food for thought.
The importance of nourishing your mental and physical health was a thread followed by all of our panellists, as each person has faced certain difficulties of their own. As Steven Hore discussed, managing stress has elevated how he works. He and his family made the decision to leave London after more than 20 years in the city. Initially causing more stress than intended due to commutes, but, after Covid eliminated presenteeism, time usually reserved for long car or train journeys was swapped out for more time in nature, exercising and moving through beautiful spaces that nourish his soul.
Something more attainable than moving city that he shared with the audience though, and perhaps the most simple and obvious tip: get a good night’s sleep! Steven shared how implementing this one action has transformed his ability to handle combined stressors such as job insecurity, shifting budgets and demands of 16+ hour shoot days with ease.
It’s not all about work though, as we revisit a comment from Jamie Ellul on not letting your self-worth get too wrapped up in your business, the panel delved into the importance of finding things outside of work to nourish your creative side. Find a hobby you love and indulge in it as much as you can. Hustle culture is dying, now is the time for slow, intentional living.
The elephant in the room: AI
Of course – it wouldn’t be a conversation about the state of the world right now without touching on artificial intelligence. A topic that roused the crowd, unsure on how to feel about this powerful new tool we’ve all been given. But the biggest question on everyone’s lips… What does this mean for creative jobs? Tim, Kate, Steven, Robin and Jamie all steadfast in their belief that creative jobs aren’t going anywhere. A sigh of relief. Steven shared some positive thoughts on how AI is a great democratiser. The barriers to entry now are lower than before, meaning more eyes, more screens and work happening in more places than ever before.
This being said, clients will always want emotional, relatable, human stories. From Jamie’s perspective, AI can only produce more of the same and will never be a match for the way humans think and create. We left that topic firmly closed with his mic drop moment – “AI won’t give you a drumming gorilla for a Cadbury ad”.
Where do we go from here?
After a short break, we resumed the discourse in the form of an intimate Q&A. With questions from a concerned audience, on how positive the panel feel about the creative industries going forward – will we see an upturn? Leaving us with some final gems of knowledge, the panel discussed how being brave will ultimately lead to success. However you view success though, is up to you. Times have been difficult, really difficult, but they ARE changing. There are spaces, like Gather Round, where community is flourishing and people are coming together with ideas and strength beyond what they thought they were capable of, just a few years ago.
In the words of Anthony Burrill, “Work hard and be nice to people” – but most importantly, be brave, nourish your network, ask questions, take care of yourself and the rest will follow. Stay resilient out there!
If you want to get involved in our next event – make sure you’re signed up to our newsletter so you don’t miss out on tickets. They don’t hang around for long.
Earlier this year, Bristol Surf Cinema launched its very first event – a night dedicated to celebrating surf storytelling on the big screen. What started as a small, DIY project to bring people together around meaningful surf films quickly grew into something bigger, with almost 250 people buying for the inaugural screening in April.
The idea was simple: create a space to showcase surf films that go beyond the highlight reels, beyond the big brand edits – stories that dig into the social, political, and environmental threads woven through surf culture.
As a camera assistant working in film and TV and a lifelong surfer, I (Theo) set out to build something that connected those two worlds. In a time when the industry was unusually quiet, Bristol Surf Cinema gave me a creative project to get stuck into and a chance to pour energy into something that mattered. It was also a way to genuinely support filmmakers, every film we screen is fully licensed and paid for, and £1 from every ticket is donated to The Wave Project to help fund surf therapy for young people in the UK.
But perhaps what stood out most from the first event was how the Bristol surf community (and the wider ocean-loving crowd) showed up. Feedback from the night wasn’t just about the films, it was about the feeling in the room. People supported the event and made it clear they would like to see more. They wanted a space where all surf stories could be told, with better representation, better balance, and an even stronger connection to the community.
The next wave: July 2025
That’s where our second event comes in. On Saturday 12th July at Watershed Bristol, Bristol Surf Cinema returns with a matinee screening of Point of Change, a powerful documentary by acclaimed director Rebecca Coley. The film tells the story of Nias, Indonesia – a surf paradise that was ‘discovered’ in the 1970s and the environmental and cultural impact that unfolded for the local community as surf tourism in that area grew.
It’s a film that makes you think about the consequences of surf tourism — and we’re lucky to have Rebecca joining us on the day for a Q&A to explore those themes in more depth. Rebecca will be answering questions on her filmmaking process, handling delicate themes within documentary and the impact of tourism on the earth and native communities.
Alongside the feature, we’ll also be screening two UK-made short films:
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Surfaced by Paul Stevenson, telling the story of Nick Corkill’s journey through addiction and mental health, and the grounding role that surfing and photography play in that journey.
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Seb: A Surf Therapy Journey by Matilda Thompson, a beautifully observed short following a young surfer with ADHD and autism as he experiences surf therapy with The Wave Project Bristol.
For those who can’t make the main event, we’ll also be running a catch-up screening on Wednesday 16th July — same films, just without the Q&A.
Both events will offer the opportunity for networking and drinks at the Watershed bar after the event so you can minglew with like-minded film or ocean enthusiasts.
Growing into something bigger
Bristol Surf Cinema was never meant to be a one-off. The ambition is to keep this platform going – to continue curating thoughtful, story-first surf films and to keep building a space where filmmakers feel supported and audiences feel connected.
Looking ahead, there are exciting plans for a national tour to bring these kinds of surf screenings to other UK cities and coastal towns. The vision is to grow Bristol Surf Cinema into a national platform, while always staying true to the ethos: supporting independent surf filmmaking, elevating underrepresented voices, and creating community-led spaces where ocean & surf centred stories, of all kinds, can be seen, heard, and shared.
Want to come along?
Tickets for the July screenings are available now via the Watershed website: https://www.watershed.co.uk/whatson/13320/bristol-surf-cinema-point-of-change
To stay up to date with future screenings or to get involved, follow @bristolsurfcinema on Instagram.
We are delighted to announce an amazing new benefit for Bristol Creative Industries members this summer. You can enjoy free access to the brilliant Origin Workspace in Berkeley Square, Bristol.
Here are all the details direct from Origin:
This summer, we’re opening our doors to Bristol’s creative minds — for free!
Every Friday throughout June, July, and August 2025, Origin Workspace invites members of Bristol Creative Industries to enjoy a complimentary, inspiring, and productive workspace in the heart of the city.
Whether you’re a designer, writer, artist, or innovator, this is more than just a free desk – it’s a chance to thrive with no strings attached. Our lounge and lobby provide the ideal setting to focus, connect, and create, with unlimited coffee, reliable Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere designed to support your productivity and wellbeing.
We know many creatives are navigating the challenges of securing consistent work. That’s why we’re offering more than just space, we’re a community, offering solidarity, and creating a space where local talent can connect and collaborate.
Surrounded by like-minded professionals, you’ll have the chance to be part of a vibrant network that values support and shared success. As a proudly independent Bristol business, nurturing our Bristol ecosystem is at the heart of what we do. Whether you’re looking for a change of scenery, a spark of inspiration, or simply a place to get things done, Creative Fridays is your opportunity to be part of something bigger.
Want to join us?
Spaces are limited, so fill in this form to secure your spot and make Fridays your most creative day of the week. We can’t wait to welcome you to the space. Terms and conditions apply.
Not a Bristol Creative Industries member and want to take advantage of this brilliant offer? Join today.
