Legal
Terms and Conditions
Please read these terms carefully before creating an account, purchasing credits, or participating in any Dinners With Friends events.
1. Introduction
These terms and conditions ("Terms") govern your use of the Dinners With Friends website and services ("Platform"), operated by Dinners With Friends ("we", "us", "our"). By creating an account, purchasing credits, and participating in any Dinners With Friends event, you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not use our Platform or services. Please read these Terms carefully before making any purchases or bookings. We recommend you save or print a copy for your records.
2. Definitions
"Account" means the personal account you create to access our Platform and services. "Event" refers to any gathering organized by Dinners With Friends. "Participant" or "User" refers to any individual who has created an Account on our Platform. "Credit" or "Credits" refers to the digital currency used on our Platform to reserve event tickets. "Credit Pack" refers to a pre-defined bundle of credits available for purchase. "Redemption" refers to the act of using credits to reserve a spot at an Event. "Ticket" refers to the confirmed reservation at an Event obtained through credit redemption. "Platform" refers to our website, mobile applications, and all related services. "Content" refers to all text, images, data, and other materials available on the Platform.
3. Account Registration and Eligibility
Eligibility: - You must be at least 18 years of age to create an Account and use our services. - You must have the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract. - You must provide accurate and complete information during registration. - You must not be prohibited from using our services under applicable laws. Account Creation: - To access our services, you must create an Account by providing your name, email address, and other required information. - You agree that all information provided is accurate, current, and complete. - You must promptly update your Account information if it changes. - We reserve the right to verify your identity and the information you provide. Account Security: - You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your Account credentials. - You must not share your Account login details with any third party. - You are responsible for all activities that occur under your Account. - You must notify us immediately at [email protected] if you suspect any unauthorised access to your Account. - We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from your failure to protect your Account credentials. One Account Per Person: - Each individual may only maintain one Account. - Creating multiple Accounts may result in termination of all Accounts. - Credits cannot be merged between Accounts.
4. Credit System Overview
Dinners With Friends operates a credit-based ticketing system. Instead of purchasing tickets directly, you purchase credits which can then be redeemed for event tickets. How It Works: - You purchase credits through our Platform via secure payment (processed by Stripe). - Credits are added to your Account balance immediately upon successful payment. - You redeem credits to reserve spots at Events. - Each Event displays its credit cost, which may vary based on venue, menu, and event type. This system allows flexibility in booking and the ability to secure spots at multiple Events using your credit balance.
5. Purchasing Credits
Credit Purchase Options: 1. Standard Credit Packs: Pre-defined bundles of credits at set prices. Larger packs may offer better value per credit. 2. Exact Credits: Purchase the precise number of credits you need at a rate of £1 per credit (subject to change). Payment Processing: - All payments are processed securely through Stripe, a PCI-DSS compliant payment processor. - We accept major credit and debit cards. - Prices are displayed in GBP (British Pounds Sterling). - Upon successful payment, credits are automatically added to your Account. - You will receive an email confirmation of your purchase. Contract Formation: - When you place an order for credits, you are making an offer to purchase. - The contract is formed when we send you confirmation of your order. - We reserve the right to refuse or cancel any order at our discretion. VAT Notice: Dinners With Friends is not currently VAT registered. Prices shown are the full amount payable. Should we become VAT registered in the future, this policy will be updated accordingly.
6. Credit Validity and Expiration
Credit Balance: - Credits do not expire and remain in your Account indefinitely. - Your credit balance is visible in your Account dashboard. - Credits have no cash value and cannot be exchanged for cash. - Credits do not accrue interest. Credit Transfers: - Credits are non-transferable between Accounts. - Credits cannot be sold, traded, or gifted to other users. - Credits are tied to your registered Account and email address. - Any attempt to transfer, sell, or trade credits may result in Account termination.
7. Using Credits (Redemptions)
Redeeming Credits for Event Tickets: - Browse available Events and select one you wish to attend. - Each Event displays the credit cost required to reserve a spot. - Some Events may have tiered pricing (e.g., Early Bird, Standard, Last Minute) with different credit costs. - You must have sufficient credits in your Account to complete a redemption. - Upon successful redemption, you will receive a confirmation email and unique booking reference. - Redemptions are subject to availability. Plus-One Guests: - Some Events allow you to bring a guest at an additional credit cost. - Guest details may be required at the time of booking. - Both you and your guest must adhere to all Event terms and conditions. - You are responsible for your guest's conduct at Events. Insufficient Credits: - If you do not have enough credits, you will be prompted to purchase additional credits before completing your booking. - Our system will suggest appropriate credit packs to cover any shortfall.
8. Cancellation and Credit Refunds
User-Initiated Cancellations: - We do not offer cancellations or credit refunds as standard. - If you have a genuine reason for being unable to attend, please contact us at [email protected] and we will consider your request on a case-by-case basis. - Any decision to refund credits is at our sole discretion. - Where a credit refund is granted, credits are returned to your Account, not refunded as cash. Event Cancellation by Dinners With Friends: - If we cancel an Event, all credits spent on that Event will be fully refunded to your Account. - You will be notified via email of any Event cancellations. - We may offer the option to transfer your booking to an alternative Event. No-Shows: - If you fail to attend an Event without prior communication, no credit refund will be provided. - Repeated no-shows may result in Account restrictions or termination. No Cash Refunds: - Credits are non-refundable for cash under any circumstances. - Purchased credits cannot be converted back to monetary value. - This applies regardless of how the credits were obtained (purchase, promotional codes, or gifts). Cooling-Off Period: - Under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, you have the right to cancel a purchase of credits within 14 days of purchase for a full monetary refund. - However, by using credits before the 14-day period expires, you acknowledge that you lose this right of cancellation for those credits. - To exercise your cooling-off rights for unused credits, contact us at [email protected] within 14 days of purchase.
9. Credit Transactions and Records
Transaction History: - All credit transactions are recorded and visible in your Account. - Transaction types include: purchases, redemptions, refunds, cancellations, and promotional credits. - Each transaction shows the date, amount, description, and resulting balance. Record Keeping: - We maintain complete records of all transactions for accounting and audit purposes. - Transaction history cannot be modified or deleted. - Records are retained in accordance with UK legal requirements. - You may request a copy of your transaction history by contacting us.
10. Promotional Credits and Codes
Promotional Codes: - We may issue promotional codes that grant free credits when redeemed. - Promotional codes have specific terms including expiry dates and usage limits. - Codes are for single use unless otherwise stated. - Promotional codes cannot be exchanged for cash. - We reserve the right to withdraw promotional codes at any time. - Codes obtained through unauthorised means will be void. Referral and Welcome Credits: - We may offer credits as part of referral programmes or welcome offers. - These credits are subject to specific terms communicated at the time of issue. - Promotional credits may have different terms regarding refunds and usage. - Abuse of referral programmes may result in Account termination.
11. User Responsibilities and Acceptable Use
You agree to: - Use the Platform only for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms. - Provide accurate information when creating your Account and making bookings. - Keep your Account credentials secure and confidential. - Notify us immediately of any unauthorised use of your Account. - Comply with all applicable laws and regulations. You agree NOT to: - Use the Platform in any way that violates applicable laws or regulations. - Create multiple Accounts or share Account access with others. - Attempt to gain unauthorised access to any part of the Platform. - Use automated systems or software to extract data from the Platform. - Interfere with or disrupt the Platform or servers. - Transmit viruses, malware, or other harmful code. - Impersonate any person or entity. - Use the Platform for commercial purposes without our consent. - Circumvent any security measures on the Platform. - Resell or transfer credits or tickets for profit.
12. Event Participation
Age Requirements: - Participants must be at least 18 years of age. - Most of our Events are aimed at guests aged 30 and above, though all adults are welcome. - We may request proof of age at any Event. Booking Requirements: - All bookings must be made in advance through our official Platform. - Walk-ins are not permitted unless specifically stated. - You must present your booking confirmation or QR code at the Event. Conduct at Events: - Participants are expected to adhere to any guidelines or rules set forth by Dinners With Friends or the venue. - Smart casual dress code applies unless otherwise specified. - Participants must treat other guests, staff, and venue employees with respect. - We reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any participant whose conduct is inappropriate.
13. Dietary Restrictions and Allergies
Your Responsibility: - If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, it is your responsibility to contact the restaurant directly in advance of the Event. - Restaurant contact details are provided in your booking confirmation email. - Dinners With Friends does not communicate dietary requirements to venues on your behalf. Limitation of Liability: - We are not responsible for communicating or ensuring your dietary requirements are met by the venue. - Our liability in respect of allergy claims is limited to the value of the credits redeemed for that Event only. - Participants with severe allergies should exercise their own judgment about attending and must speak directly with venue staff before and upon arrival. - Venues are solely responsible for food preparation and allergen management.
14. Communications and Marketing
Essential Communications: - By creating an Account, you consent to receive essential service communications including booking confirmations, Event updates, cancellations, and Account notifications. - These communications are necessary for us to provide our services and cannot be opted out of while maintaining an Account. Marketing Communications: - With your consent, we may send you marketing communications about upcoming Events, promotions, and news. - You can opt out of marketing communications at any time by: - Clicking the unsubscribe link in any marketing email - Updating your preferences in your Account settings - Contacting us at [email protected] - Opting out of marketing will not affect essential service communications. Third-Party Marketing: - We will not share your contact details with third parties for their marketing purposes without your explicit consent.
15. Account Closure and Termination
Voluntary Account Closure: - You may request to close your Account at any time by contacting us. - Any remaining credits in your Account will be forfeited upon closure. - We recommend redeeming or using all credits before requesting Account closure. - Account closure is permanent and cannot be reversed. - Your transaction history will be retained in accordance with legal requirements. Account Termination by Us: - We reserve the right to suspend or terminate Accounts that violate these Terms. - Grounds for termination include but are not limited to: - Breach of these Terms - Fraudulent activity - Abusive behaviour towards staff or other guests - Creating multiple Accounts - Repeated no-shows - Non-payment or payment fraud - In cases of fraud or serious breach, remaining credits may be forfeited without refund. - We will notify you of any Account actions via your registered email. Effect of Termination: - Upon termination, you will lose access to your Account and any remaining credits. - Any pending bookings may be cancelled without credit refund. - Provisions that should survive termination will continue to apply.
16. Intellectual Property
Our Intellectual Property: - All content, logos, trademarks, and materials associated with Dinners With Friends are our property or licensed to us. - The Platform and its original content, features, and functionality are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. - Reproduction, modification, distribution, or use without express written permission is prohibited. Limited Licence: - We grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable licence to access and use the Platform for personal, non-commercial purposes. - This licence does not include the right to: - Modify or copy Platform materials - Use materials for commercial purposes - Remove any copyright or proprietary notices - Transfer the materials to another person or "mirror" the materials on any other server User Content: - By submitting any content to the Platform (e.g., reviews, feedback), you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free licence to use, reproduce, and display such content. - You represent that you have the right to submit such content and that it does not infringe any third-party rights.
17. Privacy and Data Protection
Data Controller: - Dinners With Friends is the data controller for personal data collected through the Platform. - We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your data in accordance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Data Protection Officer: - Our Data Protection Officer can be contacted at: [email protected] - You may contact our DPO for any privacy-related queries or to exercise your data protection rights. How We Use Your Data: - By using our Platform, you consent to the collection and use of your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy. - We process payment data securely through Stripe and do not store your full card details. - We will not share your information with third parties except as required by law or as necessary to provide our services. Your Rights: - You have the right to access, rectify, erase, restrict processing, and port your personal data. - You have the right to object to processing and withdraw consent. - You have the right to lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). - To exercise any of these rights, contact our DPO at [email protected]. For full details on how we collect, use, and protect your data, please see our Privacy Policy.
18. Photography and Media
Consent to Photography: - By attending our Events, you consent to the use of your image or likeness in promotional materials, including photographs and videos, both online and offline. - We may use such images on our website, social media, marketing materials, and press releases. Opting Out: - If you do not wish to be photographed, please inform the Event host upon arrival. - We will make reasonable efforts to exclude you from photographs, but cannot guarantee this in all cases. - You may request removal of specific images by contacting us. Your Own Photography: - You may take photographs at Events for personal use. - Commercial photography requires prior written consent. - Please be respectful of other guests who may not wish to be photographed.
19. Event Changes and Force Majeure
Event Changes: - Dinners With Friends reserves the right to make changes to Events, including venue changes, menu changes, or rescheduling, as necessary. - We will notify affected participants as soon as reasonably practicable. - In the event of significant changes, you may be offered the option to cancel and receive a credit refund. Force Majeure: - We shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performing our obligations where such failure or delay results from circumstances beyond our reasonable control ("Force Majeure Event"). - Force Majeure Events include but are not limited to: - Natural disasters, severe weather, or acts of God - Pandemic, epidemic, or public health emergency - War, terrorism, civil unrest, or government action - Fire, explosion, or flood affecting the venue - Power failure or telecommunications failure - Strike, lockout, or industrial action - In the event of a Force Majeure Event, we will use reasonable efforts to reschedule or provide credit refunds.
20. Code of Conduct
Expected Behaviour: - Participants are expected to behave in a respectful and considerate manner towards other participants, staff, and venue employees. - Our Events are designed to foster friendship and connection in a safe, inclusive environment. Prohibited Behaviour: - Any behaviour deemed inappropriate, harassing, discriminatory, or disruptive may result in removal from the Event without credit refund. - This includes but is not limited to: - Harassment, bullying, or intimidation - Discriminatory behaviour based on race, gender, sexuality, religion, or any protected characteristic - Excessive intoxication or disorderly conduct - Damage to venue property - Theft or fraud - Solicitation or promotion of other businesses - Any illegal activity Consequences: - Violation of the code of conduct may result in: - Immediate removal from the Event - Forfeiture of credits spent on that Event - Temporary or permanent Account suspension - Being banned from future Events - Referral to law enforcement where appropriate
21. Limitation of Liability
Scope of Liability: - To the fullest extent permitted by law, Dinners With Friends shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages. - Our total liability shall not exceed the value of credits in your Account at the time of any claim, or the amount you paid for credits in the preceding 12 months, whichever is greater. Specific Exclusions: Dinners With Friends accepts no liability for: - Any injury, illness, loss of personal belongings, or any other damages arising from participation in our Events. - Any emails not received due to technical issues with your email provider. - Technical failures or service interruptions affecting our Platform. - Loss of credits due to Account compromise where reasonable security measures were not followed by you. - Changes in credit value or pricing. - The quality of food, drink, or service provided by third-party venues. - The conduct of other Event participants. - Any loss arising from circumstances beyond our reasonable control. Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits our liability for: - Death or personal injury caused by our negligence. - Fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation. - Any other liability that cannot be excluded or limited by law.
22. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dinners With Friends and its officers, directors, employees, agents, and partners from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising out of or in connection with: - Your use of the Platform or attendance at Events. - Your breach of these Terms. - Your violation of any third-party rights. - Your conduct at Events. - Any content you submit to the Platform. - Any false or misleading information you provide.
23. Price Changes
Our Rights: We reserve the right to: - Change the prices of credit packs at any time. - Modify the credit cost of Events. - Adjust the value ratio of credits to pounds. - Introduce new credit pack options or discontinue existing ones. Protection for Existing Purchases: - Price changes will not affect credits already purchased. - Price changes will not affect redemptions already made. - Any changes will be communicated on our Platform. Event Pricing: - The credit cost displayed at the time of redemption is the price that applies to that redemption. - We may offer different pricing tiers for the same Event (e.g., Early Bird, Standard). - Once you redeem credits for an Event, the price is locked in regardless of subsequent price changes.
24. Third-Party Services
Payment Processing: - Payment services are provided by Stripe. Your use of Stripe is subject to their terms of service. - We are not responsible for any issues arising from Stripe's services. Venue Partners: - Events are held at third-party venues. We are not responsible for the venues' services, food quality, or compliance with health and safety regulations. - Any issues with venue services should be reported to us, but ultimate responsibility lies with the venue. Links to Third-Party Sites: - Our Platform may contain links to third-party websites or services. - We are not responsible for the content, privacy policies, or practices of third-party sites. - We encourage you to read the terms and privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.
25. Dispute Resolution
Informal Resolution: - If you have a dispute with us, please contact us first at [email protected]. - We will attempt to resolve disputes informally within 14 days. Complaints Procedure: - Formal complaints should be submitted in writing to [email protected]. - We will acknowledge complaints within 3 business days. - We aim to provide a full response within 14 business days. - If you are not satisfied with our response, you may escalate the matter. Alternative Dispute Resolution: - If we cannot resolve a dispute, you may be entitled to use an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) provider. - For consumer disputes, you may contact the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) or another approved ADR provider. European Online Dispute Resolution: - If you are an EU consumer, you may also use the EU Online Dispute Resolution platform at https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr.
26. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
Applicable Law: - These Terms and any dispute arising out of or in connection with them shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Jurisdiction: - Any disputes arising from these Terms will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales. Consumer Rights: - If you are a consumer, you will benefit from any mandatory provisions of the law of the country in which you are resident. - Nothing in these Terms affects your statutory rights as a consumer.
27. General Provisions
Entire Agreement: - These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any other policies referenced herein, constitute the entire agreement between you and Dinners With Friends. - These Terms supersede any prior agreements or understandings. Severability: - If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect. - The invalid provision will be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable. Waiver: - Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms will not constitute a waiver of such right or provision. - Any waiver must be in writing and signed by us to be effective. Assignment: - You may not assign or transfer your rights or obligations under these Terms without our prior written consent. - We may assign our rights and obligations under these Terms to a successor in interest or affiliate. No Third-Party Rights: - These Terms do not confer any rights on any third party under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999. Notices: - Notices to you will be sent to the email address registered to your Account. - Notices to us should be sent to [email protected]. - Notices are deemed received on the day sent if sent by email.
28. Amendments
Right to Amend: - Dinners With Friends reserves the right to amend these Terms at any time. - We will provide notice of material changes by: - Posting the updated Terms on our Platform - Updating the "Last updated" date - Sending an email notification for significant changes Acceptance of Changes: - Continued use of our Platform or participation in our Events following any changes constitutes acceptance of those changes. - If you do not agree to the updated Terms, you should stop using our Platform. - Changes will not affect credits already purchased or redemptions already made at the time of the change.
29. Contact Information
For any questions or concerns regarding these Terms, our credit system, or your Account, please contact us at: General Enquiries: Email: [email protected] Data Protection Officer: Email: [email protected] Complaints: Email: [email protected] Registered Address: Dinners With Friends Devon, United Kingdom Last updated: December 2024