Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Showups.
What is Showups?
Showups is a zero-friction event platform. Hosts create events, share a link or QR code, and guests register with just a name and email. No app download, no guest accounts — ever.
Do guests need to download an app?
No. Everything works in a mobile browser. Guests scan a QR code or tap a link, enter their name and email, and they're in.
How does check-in work?
When guests register, they receive a 4-digit check-in code via email. At the door, the host displays a QR code. Guests scan it, enter their email and code, and they're checked in. The code is single-use for security.
Can I charge for tickets?
Yes. When creating an event, set a ticket price and guests will pay via Stripe during registration. You'll see the revenue in your dashboard.
How much does it cost to use Showups?
Creating events and managing guests is free. For paid events, a small processing fee (2.9% + $0.30) and platform fee (3% + $0.55) are deducted per ticket. Free events have zero fees. For example, on a $10.00 ticket: processing $0.59 + platform $0.85 = your payout is $8.56.
When do I get paid?
Payouts are available 7 days after your event ends. You can request a payout via Interac e-Transfer, direct deposit, PayPal, or international wire. For international transfers, additional deductions may apply due to currency conversion rates and intermediary bank fees — these are determined by your bank and are outside of Showups' control. The final amount received is subject to your bank's applicable rates and fees.
Are tickets refundable?
All tickets are non-refundable. This is displayed to guests before they purchase.
What is the live timeline?
Once your event goes live, checked-in guests can post messages and photos to a real-time feed — like a group chat for your event. Hosts can post announcements too.
How does the timeline stay private?
Only guests who have physically checked in at the door (via QR scan) can access the timeline. A unique token in the URL acts as their session — no login required.
What happens to timeline content after the event?
The live timeline (photos, messages, check-in records) is automatically and permanently deleted 48 hours after the event ends — giving guests time to download and share. Guest names and email addresses are retained so hosts can export their guest list for the nature of event organizing. Payment information is stored on our end for auditing and accounting purposes.
Can I use Showups for free events?
Absolutely — we love helping communities! The full feature set — QR check-in, live timeline, guest messaging, digital tickets — works for free events with zero cost.
Which countries does Showups work in?
Showups works worldwide. Hosts and guests can use the platform from any country. For paid events, Stripe handles international currency conversion automatically — all prices are in USD.
What kind of events is Showups for?
Anything where people show up: student club events, house parties, weddings, community meetups, pop-up markets, birthday celebrations, fundraisers — you name it.
Still have questions?
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