A CREATIVE EVENT SERIES

Friday, May 2, 2025 
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The Jitter Bus Cafe at
847 Grand Ave. New Haven, CT 

IRL is a new event series designed to bring together creative freelancers, creatives, and solopreneurs for real conversations, meaningful connections, and hands-on collaboration. If you’re tired of surface-level networking and looking for a space where people actually get what it’s like to build a creative career on your own, this is for you. 

Our first event features a panel discussion with creative professionals who have built successful, sustainable careers in their fields. We’ll cover the realities of freelancing, navigating creative work as a business, and how to balance passion with making a living. Expect insight, honesty, and real-world strategies you can apply to your own work. 

But this isn’t just a sit-and-listen event.

IRL is about creating together and building connections that actually last. 

WHAT TO EXPECT:

  • A candid, insightful panel discussion featuring established creative professionals 

  • Interactive, collaborative activities, including a community art piece we’ll create together and a freelancer contact board to find new collaborators and opportunities

  • Laid-back networking—connect with other creative professionals in an atmosphere that isn’t awkward or forced

  • An open Q&A, where you can get real answers to your creative business questions 

  • Dinner, drinks, and good vibes—because the best conversations happen when people feel comfortable

PANELISTS

Coordinator of Inclusive Growth at the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce, Founder of Kobéy Creates and podcast Chattin’ with Kobéy

Founder of Sweets & Sounds Entertainment, Kadiatu Studios, and Creative U, Manager of Public Program & Activation at The New Haven Green

Assistant Vice President, Digital Marketing at Finex Credit Union and Darbar India Co-Owner

WHO SHOULD ATTEND? 

This event is for creative freelancers, including digital marketers, videographers, designers, writers, publicists, and photographers —anyone making a living (or trying to) through their creative work. Whether you’re just starting out or years into your career, IRL is a space to meet like-minded people, learn from each other, and build a real, supportive creative community.

Spots are limited,
so RSVP now. 

Take off the blue light glasses and touch some grass – IRL.

SPONSORS