Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
How can we use social media effectively for direct-to-consumer alcohol sales, and where can we find freelance social media support?
TikTok presents limited opportunities for alcohol promotion due to strict global restrictions on paid advertising and direct sales of alcoholic beverages. Members recommend focusing on organic content and strategic partnerships rather than paid campaigns. **TikTok strategy:** - Create organic cocktail recipe content and educational posts; alcohol brands cannot run paid ads or sell directly on the platform, but rules are evolving. - Build audience through partnerships and non-promotional content rather than paid promotion. **Social media freelancer recommendations:** - Members working with **an unnamed social comms specialist** who manages social media, audience building, and engagement for Avallen, Seven Tails, Boatyard, and other brands. Described as "amazing" by community members. - Community members have also recommended **Louise Hayter**, who offers logistical and operational support alongside social media management portfolio work, noted as well-priced and highly capable. **Caveats:** Alcohol advertising restrictions are strict across most platforms; non-alcohol advertising itself is also limited but regulations are evolving. Organic, partnership-driven strategies are currently the most viable route. For direct freelancer introductions, request contact details from members with existing positive relationships.
What are typical rates for freelance social media management including content creation, design, and influencer outreach?
Members are paying **£1,200 per month** for Instagram and Facebook management that includes a photoshoot, design work, and 3 posts per week across a 3-month retainer. This is presented as good value when it encompasses professional asset creation. For in-house or freelance arrangements handling 3–4 posts per week plus a newsletter and influencer outreach, members are exploring shared-cost models rather than traditional agency pricing. Several members indicated they found full-service agencies "fantastic but very expensive" and are considering dedicated freelancers or shared arrangements at fairer rates. Members recommend: - **£1,200/month retainer** — covers 3 posts/week, influencer outreach, and photoshoot/design work (verified current market rate) - **In-house or part-time freelance models** — more cost-effective than full agencies once you reach a certain scale; consider shared access to a dedicated person if spare capacity exists - **Ex-industry freelancers** — members noted that experienced people transitioning out of corporate drinks roles (including those returning from abroad) are available and worth exploring through personal introductions When budgeting, clarify whether asset creation (photoshoots, design management) is bundled in or charged separately, as this significantly affects total cost.
Where can we find marketing agencies and freelancers specializing in paid social media advertising (Google Ads, Instagram Ads) for drinks brands?
Members report that finding specialized drinks marketing talent requires direct networking within the community. One member mentioned having "some guys who do good work on PPC / social ads" and offered to share contacts via direct message, suggesting the most reliable route is to reach out to community members who have already vetted agencies. Members also recommend joining **FSB (Federation of Small Businesses)** for their extensive legal document hub and support services, which can help with contracts when engaging agencies. For broader marketing support, members suggest asking via the group for specific area-of-focus recommendations — one member indicated they have "a few contacts depending on area of focus" and recommended DM-ing for introductions. The community emphasizes that many have used freelancers and agencies but operate under NDAs that prevent sharing specific case studies or details, so recommendations tend to come through private introductions rather than public discussion.
Where can you find a freelance financial modeller experienced in cash flow and business valuation for drinks businesses?
Members recommend reaching out directly to trusted contacts in the network for referrals, as several have mentioned having quality resource available. The community has highlighted **Rob at Arjay Consulting** (https://arjayconsulting.co.uk) as someone who does strong work on cash flow and value chain modelling. A previous recommendation came from work done on the Don Papa brand. The best approach is to ask within the community via DM, as members with relevant experience tend to offer their own recommendations or make introductions.
How do we find a good SEO service or freelancer?
Members recommend seeking freelancers rather than larger agencies for SEO support. **Tringa** (Sarah@tringa.co.uk, www.tringa.co.uk) was specifically recommended by a member as "really good" for this work. When evaluating SEO providers, consider reaching out to community members who have existing relationships—the group found value in direct recommendations and follow-up conversations.
Who would you recommend as a freelance social media manager with experience handling multiple drinks brands?
Finding a great freelance social media manager who can handle multiple brands without excessive cost is challenging. Members shared mixed experiences and one concrete recommendation. **Hebe Richardson** (Instagram: @drinkswithhebe) — has worked with multiple brands simultaneously. One member noted mixed results across three brands they used her for, but acknowledged she "does the job we need right now" as a interim solution before bringing it in-house. Members agree she's reasonably priced compared to other options in the market. **Lula** — mentioned as an "amazing recco" that doesn't cost the earth; members requested details be shared directly. Members' general takeaway: the freelance social media market lacks standout practitioners, most demand high fees, and many brands treat freelancers as a temporary solution before moving to in-house management. If budget allows, getting specific personal recommendations (like Lula) rather than booking generically tends to yield better results.
Who are recommended freelance animators for creating simple social media assets?
Members recommend **Georgie Beattie** for freelance animation work, particularly for organic and paid social content. She's known for creating high-quality animations and stop-motion work, with recent examples including spirits brand content. On pricing, be cautious of last-minute deals: members report being offered rates as low as £400 for animation work and typically declining these offers. Pricing depends on scope and timeline—negotiate firmly rather than accepting rushed, underpriced commissions.