Make Do Drink is run by Helen Brady and Nicola Darwen, childhood friends who both grew up in Preston, moved away and then came back. By bringing the influences of bigger cities back to our home town and utilising the growing network of creatives and independent venues, we’re making sure you don’t have to get on a train to try something new.

freshly poured candles curing in amber jars

Workshops

The bread and butter of the Make Do Drink operation, we’ll always return to workshops and the sense of community and connection they foster. If you want to learn more about them you can have a little read here.

colourful planting and rainbow in avenham park

Collaborations

As Make Do Drink evolves we’re partnering with local creatives for limited edition product drops and exclusive pop-ups – keep your eyes peeled! 👀 

black matchboxes with the make do drink logo on a wooden table

Creative Events

From brand activations to bridal parties we can put the best of our respective abilities to work for your event. Marrying the visuals with the logistically viable is what we do best 👌🏻 

Helen Brady

Event Management

Helen has been in the events industry for over 11 years; bringing conferences, culture and corporate events to life with her blend of comms, creativity and can-do attitude. Whether it’s logistics or live support her event management experience and expertise are second to none.

The ‘make things happen’ half of Make Do Drink and forever DIY-attempter – she makes a mean espresso martini, knows her way around a headset and always gets the show on the road.

meet the team!

helen in a green cardigan
nicola in a make do drink apron

Nicola Darwen

Brand & Graphic Design

Nicola has worked in graphic design for over a decade, collaborating with big name clients and smaller creatives on everything from brand strategy to socials to subscription boxes. A walking cliché of typefaces and tight guidelines she knows the devil is in the design details.

The visual brains at MDD HQ and a consummate crafter – she can usually be found attempting projects well above her skill level and scheming to get the Make Do Drink logo on as many things as possible.

If you have a project or campaign you think Make Do Drink would be a good fit for, let’s chat!