Milan Women Network
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything you need to know before you join, book your first event, or make more of your membership.
New here or already a member? We’ve kept the answers simple. If you still can’t find what you need, you can always contact us.
GETTING STARTED
I just moved to Milan and don’t know anyone. Is this for me?
Absolutely. Many women join because they’re new to the city, but just as many have lived here for years and want to expand their social circle, discover new places, try something different, or simply have more happening in their lives.
Is the community only for foreigners?
No. Our shared language is English, but our members come from all over the world, including Italy. You don’t need to be an expat or new to Milan to join.
Can I join if I’m only in Milan for a few months?
Yes. Whether you’re here for a few months or planning to stay for years, you’re welcome to join.
Is there an age limit?
You must be an adult to become a member, but there is no upper age limit. Our members represent different generations, professions and stages of life, and we think that mix makes the community much more interesting.
Is this a networking group?
Not in the traditional sense. You don’t need a business card or an elevator pitch.
Some women join for friendships and fun, others for professional opportunities, culture, new experiences or inspiration. Professional connections happen naturally along the way.
Do I need to know someone before joining?
Not at all. Most members didn’t know anyone when they first came.
MEMBERSHIP
Do I need to become a member to attend an event?
Yes. Everyone attending must have an active Base or Core Membership.
Base Membership is free, so you can join and start exploring without committing to a paid membership.
For the safety and comfort of everyone attending, every guest must also be registered in our system. This allows us to know who is joining and communicate important information directly when needed.
What’s the difference between Base and Core?
Base is free and gives you access to selected events, with a €15 non-refundable registration fee per eligible event.
Core is €20/month and gives you more: standard registration fees are waived on eligible events, plus priority booking, private WhatsApp groups, Core-only experiences, Members Directory, personal introductions and additional member benefits.
I’m new. Why do I have to pay €15 to attend an event if I don’t even know whether I’ll like it?
We understand the question.
When registration was completely free, too many places were reserved and then left empty because people didn’t show up. This was unfair to women who wanted to attend and difficult for venues reserving space based on our confirmed numbers.
Base Membership remains free. The €15 registration fee simply helps us know that when you reserve a place, you plan to be there.
Should I choose Base or Core?
If you simply want to try an event, Base is an easy place to start.
If you plan to attend more than one event in a month, Core already makes financial sense. Two Base registrations mean €30 in registration fees, while Core costs €20 per month and standard registration fees are waived on all events.
You also receive the additional Core benefits, and you can cancel at any time.
Can I pause my Core Membership?
No. Core Membership cannot be paused.
That’s because a lot happens between the events too: WhatsApp conversations, spontaneous plans, introductions, Members Directory, opportunities and other Core benefits continue throughout the month.
If you know you won’t need your membership for a while, simply cancel and rejoin when you’re ready.
How long is Core Membership valid?
Core Membership is valid for 30 days from the date you join and renews automatically each month until you cancel.
Can I cancel Core Membership at any time?
Yes. You can cancel whenever you need to, without cancellation fee, directly from your Login Member's area or by contacting us info@milanwomennetwork.com
Your Core benefits remain active until the end of your current billing period. Membership fees are non-refundable for unused time or benefits.
What happens to WhatsApp if I cancel Core?
You’ll remain in the Core WhatsApp groups until your current membership period expires.
Once it expires, your number will be removed. If you become a Core Member again later, we’ll add you back.
Can I leave and come back later?
Of course. Members travel, move away, get busy and sometimes simply need a break.
Cancel when you need to and rejoin whenever the timing works for you.
You’re always welcome back!
EVENTS
How do I register for an event?
Visit our Events page, choose what interests you and register using the ticket option corresponding to your membership.
Core Members receive priority access to selected events, so some bookings may open to Core before becoming available more widely.
Where do I find the exact event details?
The event page includes the main information you need before booking.
Registered guests will also receive an email approximately 24 hours before the event with final details such as the meeting point, schedule and practical instructions. Please always check your inbox before attending.
Can I come alone?
Absolutely. Most of the women do, including members who have been with us for years.
We make introductions and help everyone settle in, especially when we know it’s your first event.
Can I bring a friend?
Of course, but she must have her own active Base or Core Membership and register for the event separately.
For everyone’s safety, we need each person attending to be registered in our system and included on the guest list.
So bring your friend, but make sure she joins and books her own place first.
Why does everyone need to register separately?
Because we take the safety of our members seriously.
We need to know who is attending each event, maintain accurate guest lists and be able to communicate directly with every participant when necessary.
For the same reason, event places cannot simply be passed to someone else without contacting us first.
Will I have to introduce myself?
Sometimes, particularly at smaller gatherings, we start with short introductions.
Usually it’s simply your name and a few words about yourself. Nothing formal, no speeches and no pressure to impress anyone.
What actually happens at the events?
It changes all the time, and that’s part of the fun.
Brunches, aperitivos, cultural visits, workshops, wellness experiences, exhibitions, day trips, professional sessions, dinners and spontaneous gatherings can all be part of the calendar.
Some events are social, some educational and some are simply an excuse to do something fun together.
Are there any extra costs at events?
Sometimes, yes, but they are always communicated clearly before you book.
Depending on the event, there may be an additional cost for food and beverages, tickets, transportation, workshops, treatments, or other services. In some cases, food and beverage may be prepaid as part of the event.
We choose venues and partners carefully and always keep different budgets in mind. You won’t suddenly be asked to spend €100 on brunch.
There are no hidden costs. If an event has an additional charge, you’ll know about it in advance.
Are all events free for Core Members?
No. Core Members don’t pay the standard MWN registration fee on events, but some experiences have an additional cost.
This could include tickets, food and beverages, transportation, workshops, treatments or other services. Any additional cost will be shown before you book.
I have dietary restrictions or allergies. What should I do?
Please tell us during registration whenever an event includes food.
We will communicate your requirements to the venue where possible, but specific accommodations ultimately depend on the venue or provider.
Can I bring my dog?
As much as we love our furry friends, dogs are not allowed at our regular events.
Some participants may have allergies, venues have their own policies, and busy gatherings can also be stressful for pets.
If you’re a Core Member, you’re always welcome to suggest or host a pet-friendly meet-up for other members who would enjoy it.
CANCELLATIONS & CHANGES
What happens if I need to cancel an event?
Plans change. Our standard cancellation policy is simple.
Core Members: cancel at least 72 hours before the event for a full refund of the eligible event fee. Cancel between 48 and 72 hours before for a 50% refund. No refunds if you cancel later than 48 hours.
Base Members: cancel at least 72 hours before the event for a full refund of the eligible event fee. No refunds if you cancel later than that.
The €15 Base registration fee is always non-refundable.
Cancellations outside these periods are not eligible for a refund unless different conditions were stated for that particular event.
Can I receive a gift card instead of a refund?
Yes. If you are entitled to a refund, you can request an MWN gift card for the equivalent refundable amount instead.
The gift card is valid for 60 days from the date of issue.
The €15 Base registration fee is non-refundable and cannot be converted into credit.
Why can’t you refund last-minute cancellations?
Because we confirm numbers and make commitments to venues, hosts and providers in advance. Once those commitments are made, the cost may still apply even if you can no longer attend.
Can I transfer my place to someone else?
Please contact us first.
Event registrations are personal, and any transfer needs to be approved. The person taking your place must also be an active member and meet the requirements for that event.
What happens if I simply don’t show up?
Your place was reserved for you, often at an event with limited capacity.
A no-show is treated as a late cancellation and is not eligible for a refund. Repeated no-shows may also affect your ability to book limited-capacity events in the future.
What happens if you cancel an event?
If we cancel a paid event, eligible event fees paid directly to us will be refunded.
If you paid a venue or another provider directly, their applicable cancellation conditions may apply.
PHOTOS, PRIVACY & COMMUNICATION
Will there be photography or video at events?
Sometimes. We love documenting what happens within the community, but we also respect your privacy.
If photography or filming is planned, we will let participants know and request consent where required.
What if I don’t want to be photographed?
That’s completely fine.
Let us know before the event using the instructions provided during registration or contact us directly.
Will you share my personal information with partners?
No.
We do not sell, rent or provide our membership database or member contact information to brands, partners, sponsors or advertisers for their independent marketing.
Why do you ask for my Instagram handle?
It simply gives us another way to reach you in case of urgent event communication. It may also help us tag you in event content when appropriate.
Providing your Instagram handle does not affect your membership or your ability to attend events.
Do you store my payment details?
No.
Payments made through our website are processed through payment services integrated with Wix. We do not store your complete credit or debit card details.
PROFESSIONAL & BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Can being a member help me professionally?
It can.
Professional connections, recommendations, collaborations and new ideas often start through conversations within the community. Core Members can also share their professional profile, services or business through the Members Directory.
We don’t promise business opportunities. We create opportunities for the right conversations to happen.
Can I promote my business in the WhatsApp groups?
Our WhatsApp groups are community spaces, not advertising channels, so unsolicited or repetitive promotion isn’t permitted.
You’re welcome to talk about what you do when it’s relevant, answer requests, share recommendations and connect directly with members who are interested.
What is the Members Directory?
The Members Directory is a Core benefit designed to make it easier to discover the experience, businesses, services and skills already within our community.
Participation is optional, and Core Members can choose what professional information they would like to include.
Can I contribute to the Blog?
Yes. Our Blog includes contributions from women within the community.
You don’t need to be a professional writer. If you have an interesting perspective, useful information, a Milan recommendation or something worth sharing, we’d love to hear your idea.
I’m an entrepreneur or creative. Can I collaborate with you?
Possibly.
Being a member can create opportunities to share what you do, but membership itself does not guarantee promotion or a commercial collaboration.
If you have an idea that could bring value to the wider community, you can submit it through our Contact page
I represent a brand or company. Can we work together?
We are selective about the brands and organisations we introduce to our members.
Rather than traditional advertising, we focus on thoughtful collaborations, curated experiences, trusted recommendations, special access and initiatives created with our members in mind.
If you believe there is a strong fit, we’d be happy to hear from you.
Still have a question?
We’ve tried to cover the things we’re asked most often, but every situation is different.
If you’re thinking about joining, already a member, have a question about an event or simply need some help, get in touch.