SAVVYWOMEN ISSUE 01 - 2019
DERBYSHIRE EDITION
Buckso
MEET THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND THE SAVVY WOMEN INITIATIVE
In The Spotlight VICTORIA WILCOX
THE CREATIVE GENIUS BEHIND PICTORIA PICTURES
BABBL
GET SOCIALLY SORTED
MEET THE 21 YEAR OLD MARKETING MANAGER OF THREE HOTELS
THE LADIES OF
THE DANDY GENT
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Nurturing you, naturally
THIS
SAVVYWOMEN A COLLECTIVE OF WOMEN IN BUSINESS
BUCKSO DHILLON-WOOLLEY
ISSUE
Welcome to the very FIRST edition of Savvy Women in Derbyshire! My name is Buckso and you can find a little more about me over on page 8, but I thought id let you know what you can expect going forward with this brand NEW initiative, Savvy Social has created. Each edition will bring you a tapestry of stories that outline the journeys and success stories from women in business, in and around derbyshire. I’m a massive fan of championing and supporting those individuals who are trying to make a difference in their lives but just need the right support and guidance in how best to do things for their PR and increasing brand awareness and raise profiles. The big thing nowadays is the need to use VIDEO as a way of promoting your business. Now before you throw your hands in the air, just be secure in the knowledge we DO THIS FOR YOU over at Savvy Women! PR can cost an absolute fortune, but because we run as a social enterprise and not for profit organisation, the key thing is ensuring our students and unemployed work experience individuals get what they need from us, aswel as us wanting to get it right for you, our members. This is easy as the costs are SO low, youd be mad not to want in! Get in touch today to get involved.
savvysocial.org
THE TEAM
/savvywomenderbys
W
elcome to the launch edition of Savvy Women! A magazine designed to celebrate and promote women in business whilst also creating a platform for young people to harness their creative skills and gain the work experience required, working under the Savvy Social umbrella. Our intention is to assist local women in business and help increase their profile and brand awareness. This is done through being able to access a range of resources which takes care of all social media requirements, not to mention editorial space in every edition of this magazine as well as our other publications. Inside this issue we put focus on our own Savvy Women here at Savvy HQ and also welcome all of our new supporters whom without, this would not be a possibility.
THANK YOU!
DRIVING THE SAVVY WOMEN INITIATIVE THROUGHOUT THE EAST MIDLANDS CREATIVELY DESIGNED AND INSPIRED BY PEOPLE ON A SPECIAL SOCIAL ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME
/savvysocialderbys
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT © Andrea Dawson Photography 2019
HEAD OF CREATIVE MEDIA & PR Buckso Dhillon-Woolley buckso@savvysocial.org VOLUNTEER FINANCE DIRECTOR Susan Bradbury susan@savvysocial.org MANAGING EDITOR Patrick Hartle patrick@savvysocial.org
VICTORIA WILCOX AN INSIGHT INTO THE LIFE OF THE CREATIVE GENIUS
CREATIVE
8
10
12
BUCKSO DHILLON-WOOLLEY DRIVING THE SAVVY WOMEN INITIATIVE
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JULIE RICHARDS BUTTON BLUE CRAFTS
DONNA FOUNDER OF EMBAA
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BUSINESS
CLAIRE SAXTON SAXTON MARKETING
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SUSAN BRADBURY SAVVY SOCIAL
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CAROLINE STARFLOWER COMPANY
STEPHEN AND PHILIP KUKU CONNECT
FOOD
ANNA HAYNES THE SQUASHED TOMATO
CRZy BEST HERBIE HANDCRAFTED JEWELERY HANDCRAFTED JEWELERY
NICKY READ BABBL SOCIAL
HEALTH & BEAUTY
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VICTORIA CROOKS JC HOTELS
SANDRA SERENITY STATION
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LADIES OF THE DANDY GENT
VICTORIA WILCOX: THE WOMAN BEHIND THE INCREDIBLE CREATIVE BUSINESS: PICTORIA PICTURES
© Andrea Dawson Photography 2019
Who is Pictoria? Victoria Wilcox lives in Derbyshire and is an expert in creating visual artwork in multimedia. You might recognise her from her livestream broadcasts at The Derby Telegraph. Now she juggles her camera with a paintbrush and, as well as making pictures, is now making moves in the art world as a freelance visual content creator. And, with more than 25 years’ experience in an industry that preserves memories and moments forever, she knows what to look for. Victoria has travelled the world on cruise ships, been in and on the news, had countless adventures and jumped in front of the camera to broadcast live to thousands on many occasions. Her role as picture editor for 15 years at The Derby Telegraph, organising exhibitions, training award-winning professional photographers and leading more than 500 local photographers in the Derby Togs networking group has given her an invaluable bank of skills. She has a deep understanding of social media, can tell a story in a single frame under pressure – and her impactful work has frequently been shortlisted for awards. Photographing famous faces and visiting
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countless places make Victoria’s background perfect for understanding an event or situation, and how to capture and share it through the power of pictures. Her departure from the busy newsroom in 2018 to set up her own business in commercial photography, creative media and original artwork has been a journey of rediscovery She told us at Savvy HQ: “ I always wanted to find a way to make a living by creating memories, images and art that others will cherish... but it took all these years to find it! My art teacher at school told me I couldn’t make a career as an artist – but that was before the world wide web developed. Now the possibilities are endless and connecting is much easier. “I was looking to do something with my painting that would benefit others and stumbled across pet ‘pawtraits’ as a rewarding avenue to making regular commissioned art that’s in demand. I get pretty busy before Christmas time as people are eager to think of clever presents for their loved ones. Because I can work from a reference photograph, people often order them as a surprise, too. When I hear there have been tears (of joy!) on opening the framed artwork it makes me happy to know how much they will cherish what I’ve crafted.”
Victoria’s confidence in her artwork has grown so much that she has been filming for an upcoming episode on Sky TV, Landscape Artist Of The Year, due to be aired in the autumn. She said: “I was part of a location shoot with more than 50 other artists so it was a humbling experience among so many talented peers but I learnt so much and got some fabulous feedback from the judges and public, too. Tune in to see if you can spot me and see what you think of my landscape art too!” But what about her camera gear? Is it gathering dust? Not at all. Victoria said: “My instagram has grown over the past year to more than 5,000 followers and I noticed my Derbyshire scenic photography in particular was getting a lot of likes. People were asking when I was going to sell my landscape photography, so I have put together a Delightful Derbyshire 2020 calendar. It’s a showcase of my followers’ favourites that will jazz up any wall all year round!”
and pride in the knowledge that people are using my work to decorate their lives.” Beat the rush for her Christmas commissions. Order your pet pawtrait before November 1st, quoting #SAVVYWOMEN and Victoria will give you 10% off the regular price on all sizes! The Delightful Derbyshire 2020 calendar is available for £12 (Free P&P).
To see more of Victoria’s pet pawtraits, portfolio and pictures, visit her website at www.pictoriapictures.com and follow her on Instagram too @pictoriavictoria
One year in to being a sole trader, the question for this former journalist is: Is it working? Victoria told us: “I’m happier than I have ever been and, as the demand for my artwork increases, so does my sense of wellbeing
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DRIVING THE SAVVY WOMEN INITIATIVE THROUGHOUT THE EAST MIDLANDS
An Insight Into The Life of...
Buckso Dhillon-Woolley 8 - SAVVY Women ISSUE 1 - savvysocial.org
Hello and Welcome, to this LAUNCH edition of our Savvy Women publication!! We are SO excited and proud of what the future holds for all those superstar business supporters already taking advantage of being members of this social enterprise led initiative. The person we chose to head up this new initiative is local Actor, Motivational Speaker and Coach, Buckso Dhillon-Woolley who is our Head of Creative Media and PR, here at Savvy Women. We invited Buckso, who continues to do Voiceover work and Speaking at large events around the UK, to work alongside us for the launch of Savvy Women, as we knew her connections within the media industry along with her reputation locally, would serve our social enterprise in a way no-one else would be equipped to do and therefore, knew she would be a huge asset to the business. So lets meet her! “Im really looking forward to contributing to the success of this publication, as I saw the potential in it over 2 years ago when I first heard of Im Savvy. I suggested there and then to Duane, the Director, that he should consider doing a publication JUST for women in business as there was nothing out there like it, celebrating the successes and stories of Women in Business, within the East Midlands. This is not to be confused with the type of publications about life stories or business news, ours will chart the different elements of our members businesses and homelife highlighting those unique, individual points that we need in order to succeed in life never mind business, today. Hopefully this maybe can help inspire and motivate others out there, looking to make a change or enhance their own desires and ambitions.” Says Buckso. We believe wholeheartedly in her thoughts and plans she has in the pipeline for the future of Savvy Women and without giving too much away, there will be more facets the members can take advantage of, such as events, podcasts etc and maybe even our very own online Savvy Talkshow!
Buckso’s most notable “gig” to date she says, would have to be Disneys “Aladdin” feature film which she was very pleased to have a cameo role for, “most people asked me whether I got to meet Will Smith and yes, I did! But as im not THAT big a fan, I didn’t get too gooey-eyed over him. My thing was actually having Guy Ritchie directing us, it was brilliant to watch the way he worked compared to other Directors ive worked with” but shes equally proud of her accomplishments on the small screen, having been on ALL the soaps, bar one…and that’s Holby! Not to mention the year spent on the Westend of London playing a 60yr old “aunty-ji” in the stage MUSICAL “Bend it Like Beckham” where the man himself didn’t show, although his eldest son Brooklyn, did. As you can imagine living life as Buckso does, within the world of TV and Media, time isn’t always on her side. No more so, than when she had her twins Ruben and Renaya, 17yrs ago. This wasn’t “planned” by any stretch of the imagination, she says, but it came to be the best thing that ever happened for her as it became the reason she fell into the world of Acting over a decade ago. “Life has this way of taking you down your path of purpose and although we dont see it for being THAT at the time, it will ALWAYS deliver. So ill say this as I end my intro, Whatever you feel is happening for you in life right now, be sure, its for a better day to come. Be it in a few months or a few years, that time WILL come”
Buckso in Iceland’s Televised commercial along side Peter Andre!
Buckso is looking for women in business (sole traders or part of a larger organisation) to become a pioneering collective of women who share the same ethos when it comes to collaborating and championing those that are trying to make a difference in their lives. Get in touch at buckso@savvysocial.org today!
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Often, I’m introduced as my business name and that’s great, because I am Claire R. Zwozny-Bestwick!
CRZyBest, Derbyshire TEL: 07813 931390 www.crzybest.co.uk claire@crzybest.co.uk
I am a creator of unique handcrafted jewellery, accessories and alternative bespoke wedding bouquets using a variety of Swarovski crystals, semi-precious stones and most importantly tiny handcrafted, kiln fired precious metal sculptures; this means you can have pretty much anything you want included into your CRZyBest creation! Having specialised in 3-dimensional design, silversmithing and jewellery for my first degree, I enjoyed teaching Art, Craft and Design for 20 years and in 2015 graduated with a master’s degree. Ready for a change in direction, I seized opportunity, officially launching CRZyBest in 2017.
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Combining a whole heap of my skills presented an immediate unique selling point. Incorporating unique, tiny, handcrafted, kiln fired sculptures into bespoke jewellery is a growing favourite in my shop and a great example of what I can do best... CRZyBest! Last minute unique gifts? I also create ready to buy jewellery and accessories available through my website www.crzybest.co.uk or directly from me. I showcase at a variety of events and there is also a growing number of CRZyBest stockists, so keep your eyes peeled for my creations! Remember too, that if you don’t see exactly what you’d like, please get in touch because I’m always up for developing ideas!
ALTERNATIVE BESPOKE BOUQUETS & ACCESSORIES Photo By Indigo & Violet
Handcrafted Bronze Honey Bee Earrings
Sterling Silver or Copper Studs
Steampunk Buttonhole
Game Of Thrones Inspired Bouquet
Combined with honey coloured Swarovski Crystals for people who love bees.
With sterling silver posts and scrolls available with a standard length post or slightly shorter ‘sleeper’ post.
With handcrafted copper cogs. On display at RAF Holmpton Secret Bunker.
On show at the Unconventional Wedding Festival. Created with copper wire, Swarovski crystals and semi-precious stones, including obsidian (dragon glass), complete with 3 dragons. The large copper dragon is my biggest copper sculpture to date!
Each tiny bee sculpture is individually created and carbon fired in my pink kiln to create the best finish possible. Photo By FoyeTography
CRZyBest, Derbyshire
Can be created in bronze or copper on request.
Photo By FoyeTography
Get in touch to find out how you can have a completely unique buttonhole designed and made!
Photo by All You Need Is Love Photography
www.crzybest.co.uk
Photo by Rachel Burt Photography
claire@crzybest.co.uk
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Herbie
Herbie from ELL Boutique, who has come on board the ship that is Savvy Women. The name was derived from her daughters name “ellora” which means “cave temples” in India, shortened to “ELL”. Herbie set up in business whilst she was on maternity, just under a year ago and has steadily expanded the range of stock she sells from scarves and accessories to clothing and more recently jewellery. Her passion for fashion came from her mother, who ran an indian textile shop selling fabrics for over 30 years in Peartree and once the baby came along she was left wondering “what could i be doing now?” As many of you entrepreneurs out there will know, resting on ones “maternal laurels” isn’t necessarily always an option! Indeed this was the case for Herbie too, so she registered her company, researched where she would source her products from, as she was keen to ensure it wouldn’t be imported from the far east, but more local to the Midlands. Herbie has a great relationship with her current suppliers and is always on the lookout for new ones. Visiting trade shows up and down the UK, checking the items are ethically sourced by the suppliers also. Herbies “day job” is within the FMCG sector (fast moving consumer goods) wholesale industry, where she will go into places like Costco on behalf of blue chip companies like Coca-Cola, Nestle, Cadburys and try to negotiate better prices on behalf of the wholesaler. I thought id ask her a few pointers on how one could maybe set up in business and what to look out for.
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So Herbie, what advice would you give to those women out there wanting/looking to start their own business? What would you have done differently? I would have researched better ways to promote my business on social media, as its proven to be such a minefield and one can do unnecessary activity which in hindsight could have saved me a lot of time. So going on a course to begin with of any description that is for your sector, is strongly advised. Become an affiliate of a larger organisation, like im with shopify an ecommerce company, which host seminars etc to help with online selling as ive learnt a LOT through doing that, not to mention the networking that goes on anyway once youre there. But networking in itself is a MUST, especially as a lone worker if nothing else, it gives you a support you otherwise wouldn’t have. Lots of women often chat about their aspirations to have “side hustle”, but are often put off by the fact it wont match their day job financially. Would you say you’re ever likely to leave your day job and do this full time? Being honest with you, i’m quite fortunate to have a situation where I could leave the day job if i wanted to and eventually id like to do that. Don’t get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoy my day job and I get to meet lots of people from all walks of life, which I also get from my Ell Boutique business but what I love most, is that im able to help people with their styling needs, which is a great feeling for me, the satisfaction I probably dont get from the day job. The fashion industry ive found, is ALL about confidence which is priceless to be able to give that to someone.
Speaking as a new mum, are you putting pressure on yourself to get back to pre-baby shape? In total transparency I would wholeheartedly say a massive YES to that!! Not because i think i should be or that i think im overweight, its more for the fact i feel better being that shape. ITs physically the most energetic i am once im back to that size. I am very active anyway and was before, so for me to not do that would be alien, i’m back into my cycling and running now as before i used to run marathons, ultra marathons not to mention crossfit for 6years, as well as running with the dog so its only a matter of time till im back there and that’s what makes ME happy. You have to do what makes YOU happy, not others. Muscle tone is key for me and thats what makes me feel confident! So what can folks look forward to for “Christmas at Ell Boutique”? Ohhh!.. You mentioned Christmas already! Well, actually it wont be all that far away really, and at present im sourcing new pieces bit colour will play a big part in whats out there, along with the classic LBD (little black dresses) which are timeless in any collection or season! And on a final note, what inspired you to come on board as a supporter of the Savvy Women initiative we have launched? Well over 90% of the people I work with in the day job, are men. So this gives me the opportunity to be a part of something that champions women, a collective that gives us a voice and a platform to say YES, we are contributors to a successful business and that working together collaboratively, will only strengthen what we do and together, as this collective, we can do great things. The fact that it’s not a bid to “compete” with our male counterparts but more about encouraging women to support each other was also an attractive element, knowing this would support me. FIND OUT MORE AND CHECK OUT ELL BOUTIQUE www.ellboutique.co.uk
@ellboutique.co.uk
ell_boutiqueuk
Julie Richards Owner of Button Blue Crafts - Est. 2013
What is it that you do as a business? I have an online retail business specialising in crafts and DIY wedding accessories. We have a large range of ribbons and needlecraft kits along with a wide variety of other crafting necessities. We sell through our website as well as on Ebay, Etsy and Amazon. How long have you ran your business? We started in 2013 with a market stall selling handmade bath products but soon migrated into proper crafting stock when I realised how seasonal that market was and that people were asking for the base products rather than the finished items. What inspired you to start your business? Having a love of crafting and with the family all growing up it was a natural choice for me to be able to combine my passions with a business - although I get a lot less time now to craft for myself. Do you work on your own or with others? It really is a family business. My daughter and cousin in law work with me at the moment. What did you do before you started your own business? I have always worked in the retail trade mostly in management positions but when my family grew we had our own fast food business for a few years to allow me the flexibility of looking after the children and working part time. We sold that business when my partner went into the antiques trade and I helped for a while until my love of crafting took over! Plans for 2019? This year I am concentrating on my new website, I would love to be able to expand into a shop but it is a little scary out on the high street at the moment with so many shops closing, so I need to find the right one for our business in the right location.
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Donna Briscoe-Greene
I am the new Landlady of RTZANS at the Maypole Theatre and Bar. Opening night is 27th September. Where there’ll be live music and I’ll be singing a set too. I started off my artistic journey at 8yrs old attending dance and drama classes until 14. I later discovered my voice and have been lead singer in bands. A recording Artist, an Arts Administrator; and even after a break a Fraud investigator. The Arts has always been my passion but due to the BAME experience in the Arts work isn’t always available when one wants to progress within the industry. I then decided to launch my business EMBAA East Midlands BAME Arts Associated last year. Producing work with students in galleries locally. Performing as an Artist for Windrush for people in the community, the Mayor and more. But when the opportunity to gain access to the Maypole and its Theatre I jumped at it as an Artist or RTZAN the passion is a lifestyle and I wanted to encourage develop and sustain that availability in the community. And ensure that offer is extended quite loudly also to the BAME Arts community.. This is only the first step, but I currently have a call out for Black History Month 31Days email donna@embaa.co.uk to register your interest. Tel: 07946 609375 | E-mail: donna@embaa.co.uk | Visit: www.embaa.co.uk
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lifestyle
The passion is a and I wanted to
encourage develop and
sustain that availability in the community.
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MEET SUSAN BRADBURY HEAD OF FINANCE AT SAVVY SOCIAL
Where did you start your career? I started work at 16 at a local Derby company Abbey Glass in a multi process role as a Sales and Purchase Ledger Administrator and Receptionist. It was the only job I applied for and I got the role working in a lovely family owned company for 3 years. In 1985 I decided to take on a bigger challenge and joined Rolls Royce as a Material Controller, which was the start of a 31 year career in both the Aerospace and Nuclear sectors of the company. What is your greatest professional achievement? I became an Executive Senior Manager at Rolls Royce in 2011 and this was the proudest moment of my long career there. During my career, I travelled to the Far East, America and Germany and met many interesting and inspiring people. Because of hard work and perseverance, I was fortunate to work in Management positions in Finance, Manufacturing, Logistics, Planning and Supply Chain gaining a wealth of experience whilst coaching, developing and mentoring my team and others to succeed and gain job satisfaction. I am passionate about this, as I truly believe that the measure of being successful is not just about your salary, but is about, being happy in what you are doing from when you wake up to when you go to sleep at night! I sometimes look back and think how proud I am of how much I achieved in a predominantly male environment.
What made you make the decision to retire early? I had just turned 50 and hit an extremely difficult period in my life. I was in the process of going through a divorce, my Dad had just passed away suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, a cruel illness, and I needed to be there for my Mum. I felt I needed to take my life in a different direction. Thankfully, I was fortunate to be in a position financially to take time out and look for a new way of life.
“Susan & Buckso, leading the way at Savvy Women!” What are your plans for the future? I will definitely continue to spend quality time with my Mum and my beautiful dog Zak as they mean the world to me. I now have a small portfoilo of property that I manage with my partner. I have always been interested in developing properties and by running my own business, it gives me the freedom to work as a volunteer at Savvy Social where I can offer my skills in Finance and Management to help a programme that supports young people and vulnerable adults to obtain valuable skills and work experience.
“I am more than happy with my future plans and hope reading this inspires other women to see that there is a different life outside of a Corporate career.”
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Claire Saxton
Director of Saxton Marketing Ltd
I’m the Director of Saxton Marketing Ltd, my marketing consultancy company where I help business owners reach their marketing goals and take their business to the next level. I’ve always known that I want to work in marketing and after studying at the University of Derby, worked as a campaign manager for local Building Societies. I established Saxton Marketing 5 years ago following the birth of my first child, Chloe. I knew that working in a corporate marketing environment wouldn’t give me the time I wanted to spend with my daughter and that running my own company that allows me to work around my family life was the way to go. Since having William and working right the way through my pregnancy with him, I know I’ve made the right decision. I’m delighted to be celebrating the 5th anniversary of my business because I can look back on all the businesses, big and small, that I’ve been able to help over that time. From setting marketing goals and creating plans to make them a reality, to getting hands on with social media marketing and event management. It’s been a real pleasure to see the clients I work with go from strength to strength with their business and achieve success. I’ve been fortunate enough to win several awards this year for my work as a marketing consultant, and more specifically, being noticed for the Twitter marketing services I provide. I simply adore Twitter marketing and I think my love for the platform shines through when I talk about it. It’s through Twitter that I have won over 26 awards for clients (and counting!) and why I’m now known as a Twitter expert and social media mastermind! I love working with business owners and corporate companies and agencies to set marketing goals and achieve them. Whether you want a critical friend that can cast a strategic eye over your marketing and suggest improvements, or you want to outsource your marketing tasks such as social media, proofreading and content marketing – I can help with that. You never know, I might be able to make you an award winner too! CALL: 07973924589 VISIT: www.saxtonmarketing.co.uk EMAIL: claire@saxtonmarketing.co.uk TWITTER: @saxtonmarketing
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“Shine out Loud and Be Seen and Heard” Marketing Solutions For Business “Rev UP” Business & Marketing Courses and Programmes Healthy you, Healthy Business strategies that make a difference Advance People Company accelerated Marketing and Sales division of Starflower
Caroline Micallef Wragg Going back to my Roots!
Using my wisdom and knowledge and combining it with a winning formula of Art and Science with Marketing and Sales has ignited a passion in me to help people who are passionate about what they do, to accelerate in their own areas of business. Combining 30 years’ experience of marketing and sales and more recently holistic wellbeing, which has been instrumental in the creation of my branded Rev up your Health and Business industry leading programmes. My background is in marketing and communications in international business. Working in the corporate world of logistics, telecoms, audio broadcasting sales and health and wellbeing. Qualified in Marketing with the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Dale Carnegie trained in sales and internet marketing diploma, I am also a qualified holistic wellbeing practitioner, skills in this field that have benefited many business owners. I have trained staff, organized and executed international re-brands, ran European PR campaigns and helped companies gain major awards within their own specialized sector of industry. The work I have done has been pivotal to the successes achieved by the companies involved. I work holistically and ethically and want to share my knowledge of health, business, lifestyle, wellbeing alongside strategic marketing and sales with more businesses. Particularly those who are passionate about developing their own unique business, with a lifestyle they can enjoy.
My extensive portfolio is built up over many years by helping companies both national and international, with their growth and development through marketing and client support. By being instrumental in their success has deepened my passion to help more businesses achieve this and more. Working overseas and being in charge of the marketing and communications for 60 sites, heading up a European re-branding campaign as well as spearheading franchise divisions in various sectors, gave me the drive to be different. Providing businesses today with leading edge solutions to their success. The time I have spent in the health and wellbeing industry has taught me many things that I am excited to share with you. I have developed my Rev UP programmes based on healthy you, healthy business. By incorporating strategic marketing and sales combined with an holistic approach and the right energy, creates a winning blend. Aligning you with the right clients that want to buy from you. I help business owners be seen and heard so they can shine out loud and be the best in their field of business expertise. Giving a “voice” back to people and enabling them to share their story and passion with many. I bring a wealth of experience both to individuals, business owners and corporate organisations We believe that all our clients are unique and take great care in providing bespoke services and solutions to suit their needs now and in the future.
Tel: 01332 749008 | Mobile: 07970 830423 | Email: caroline@starflowercompany.co.uk | www.starflowercompany.co.uk
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Nicola Read
Social Media Content @ Babbl Social
Since I was 24 years old I worked for myself so I don’t really know any different, and wouldn’t have it any other way! My first venture into being self employed was as a lingerie distributor, we imported brands direct from the manufacturer in America and re-sold them wholesale here in the UK to many independent businesses and well known chain stores such as Ann Summers. We had a fantastic reputation and won lots of industry awards, mostly due to our excellent service levels, which is something that has stayed with me as being crucial in everything I have done since. When I had my first child 12 years ago, my husband worked random shifts and was away from home a lot so childcare was tricky, I decided to throw myself into parenting so took a few years off. I loved my time off with the children but when my third started school I was already thinking about my next step. I missed the buzz of working and being around adults, even the daily banter you can have with colleagues. Now with 3 children in the mix I knew I had to continue to work for myself so that I could still be there for all the important sports days, nativity’s and assembly’s they wanted me there for, and of course I wanted to attend them too. I dabbled in a couple of small ventures but none of them really set me alight, so whilst I still had ideas whirring around in my mind I threw myself into supporting the school my children went to (as Secretary of the PTA and Governor) and the playgroup my children had attended (as a Trustee), with, my now business partner, James. Whilst doing this I also set up a micro blogging Derby parenting site which shared what was on locally so that parents could get
out and about and support local businesses. This was social media based and attracted a large following relatively quickly. At the same time as I was doing this James and I had also set up social media pages for the school and a couple of local charities we were involved with and began regularly posting to them. The parenting site was beginning to get really time consuming, and I was starting to realise that what really gave me a thrill was seeing the charities we were supporting getting a positive reaction through their social media. It was this that made me realise where my passion really was, supporting our local community and helping them succeed. Over the course of that summer two years ago, Babbl was born. We knew there were big social media companies out there charging a lot of money for an all singing all dancing service, however we also knew there was a real gap in the market for the micro and small businesses who needed to be on social media but didn’t have the time, as they were sometimes the only person in their business, or didn’t have the money to pay the large corporate companies offering the service, they needed to be able to see a return on their outlay, and fast! These were our people! James and I both have a very clear vision of what Babbl should deliver, and it’s centered around great service. We always say we try to become part of our clients virtual team. We’re like their cheerleaders, when they win, we win and that’s what we really get a kick out of. Seeing those leads and enquiries pop through on Messenger still gives us a thrill.
CONTACT 01332 899409 hello@babbl.co.uk www.babbl.co.uk FACEBOOK: @BabblSocial
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PHOTO: Adrian Peter Ganderton from Treehouse Cakes, Stephen and Phillip with The Dutchess of Rutland
NETWORKING WITH NO PITCHES, PRESENTATIONS OR PRESSURE MEET OUR PREFERRED PARTNERS, SUPPORTING WOMEN IN BUSINESS: STEPHEN AND PHILIP AT KUKU CONNECT KuKu Connect is one of the leading business networking organisations in the East Midlands, but what makes KuKu one of the best? We spoke to CoFounders of KuKu Connect Stephen Goddard and Philip Brooks-Stephenson about how KuKu Connect supports women in business in a different way.
little features help KuKu to be a more effective platform and bring in connections and business sectors you might often find at a networking group. “ Says Stephen “Any form of business networking is great, this is just what KuKu offers and is something that has built to connect out throughout the Midlands and even down to London. The great thing is that any business can attend a Connect Reception once as a free guest, so if you’d like to find out more, just visit our website or drop the KuKu Team an email; we look forward to connecting with you soon!” Says Philip
So why has KuKu become one of the top and most influential business networking places to be in the East Midlands? “There has been a huge rise of people starting their own brands, businesses and home-based enterprises, which is great that as a society we have aspiration and ambition, whether its being your own boss, balancing family life, having more holidays, following your own passion, or a particular talent or skill. Of course when you are either starting out, or are developing to grow bigger, connecting and raising your profile is key. At KuKu we help you to connect, engage, develop and secure new business clients and invaluable relationships with other decision makers and business owners.” Says Philip How does KuKu do this differently to networking groups? “KuKu is a business Membership service, connecting businesses and entrepreneurs across the East Midlands. We are so much more than just a local networking group. Members have a whole range of benefits, from sending your news and press releases to promoting your own social media posts, plus a Member’s Privilege card which gains discounts to lifestyle, venue and professional services, as well as invitations to other business and private events and launches. Key to KuKu is the style of business networking; we don’t do any pitches, presentations and no pushy sales. The Connect Receptions take place every month at some of the top venues and businesses in the area. We are welcoming and friendly, as are, our Member businesses with the receptions being enjoyable, positive, informal and more relaxed which is ideal for those new to networking, or those who have been really turned off from networking. All these
Well there you have it and cannily the KuKu boys are connecting out to readers, as they welcome any businessperson to come and join them as a guest. We did and we love KuKu, see you there soon.
kukuconnect.co.uk
0116 2963723
hello@kukuconnect.co.uk
@KuKuConnect
“Savvy Social is an excellent social enterprise that supports young people and the unemployed to gain real and practical skills, work experience and a confidence boost, which is why we are so delighted to champion this brilliant concept. Savvy, as part of their programme, produce commercial publications covering a wide variety of topics, which gives local businesses and entrepreneurs a platform to promote their business and services, whilst making a huge and positive impact on supporting young and unemployed people. Their hastag #WinWinPR really is a valid point, Go Savvy!” Stephen Goddard, Co-Founder KuKu Connect
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MEET ANNA HAYNES THE OWNER OF THE SQUASHED TOMATO
Last month we had a trip down to a little café on The Strand called The Squashed Tomato where we have the opportunity to talk to the owner Anna Haynes and ask her about her little establishment and how it has grown to become one of Derby’s finest eateries.
What sort of food do you have on offer here?
How did your journey begin and take you to where you are now, owning one of the sensational cafes in Derby?
When can people come and experience your services?
I just loved cooking from when I was a child, I used to cook with my dad and watch him then it just evolved. People would always enjoy coming over for dinner and say “you should open your own place” but I never really had the confidence to do so with a young family at the time. I decided to start catering from home which I did have a little business doing that but I got lonely because I am quite a people person. One day I decided to just chance my luck and go for it. At the time I was at Brailsford and I managed to grab a place which was open for five years and that is where I got my confidence from to come into a city centre and open a bigger establishment and not look back. So here we are and have been for the last 18 months. How does a typical day for you pan out? Every day I start about 6:30 I am often doing things in the kitchen and I cook throughout the day until we get busy with customers. I spend time getting some ideas together I am constantly doing something.
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We offer a steady menu but I often mix the fillings and we don’t waste any food as any leftovers can be used for our soup or a similar concept. We cater for vegetarians and all dietary needs with our homemade food.
Our opening hours are 9:00 in the morning till 3:00 in the afternoon Monday to Friday but we open a little later on Saturday when we open at 9:30. Are you looking to develop this any further in the future? We are sometimes asked about opening in the evenings and I am hoping that in the future maybe once a week or once a fortnight maybe we could look into opening for a feast or a set menu with a pre-book only operation. We can cater for about 25 at any one point. THE SQUASHED TOMATO 16 THE STRAND DERBY Tel: 01332 348793 www.facebook.com/thesquashedtomatoderby
WE SPOKE TO VICTORIA CROOKS THE 21 YEAR OLD MARKETING MANAGER FOR JC HOTELS
You were really taken by the concept of our Social Enterprise and using your corporate social responsibility to help young students and the unemployed and having them help you at the same time, would you like to tell us more about that? Well I know what it is like to try and get the work experience needed to get into the workplace and actually because you’re helping them we thought let’s help you with the process and giving these young people opportunity. What is your role here at JC Hotels? I am the marketing manager for JC Hotels which is a family business consisting of The Lion Hotel in Belper, The Lodge in Littleover and The Boars Head in Sudbury. So I do all of the marketing, online marketing and social media. What is it that people can expect to get from your establishments and can they stay overnight in all three of them? There is over 60 rooms combined via all three of our establishments where people can stay. There is pizzerias in The Lion Hotel and Littleover Lodge and a different gastro menu in each establishment and then at The Boars Head we have an A La Carte restaurant so there is something for everybody here at JC Hotels. What is ideal client base, people you would like to attract and cater for and do the three establishments cater to different individuals? We cater for everybody at all of our places but if you like to try something new there’s plenty of dishes for you so we have quite extensive menus for that reason. The breakfast menu is currently only for those staying here but we are going to be launching a new breakfast menu at The Lion Hotel for people coming in soon which is going to be like a buffet where you make your own breakfast. This should be available by the beginning of autumn. If it is successful and what people want then maybe we will look at doing it in our other premises. Do you cater for different dietary needs? We do cater for vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free. We can also cook to suit every allergy so for example if somebody is lactose intolerant we will be able to tailor our food for them. Are you already thinking about Christmas? All three locations are open on Christmas Day and we will have our Christmas menu out very soon to take bookings and prepare for it. VISIT: jchotels.co.uk
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Serenity Station Mind, Body, Wellness Sandra Shawcross
Complementary Therapy Practitioner and owner of Serenity Station I began my career in the NHS from 1994 at the age of 20 and have worked in some interesting and challenging roles, some of which have been highly pressured and at times very stressful. I started on the patient transport services, which involved taking care of patients of all ages and differing mobility who required ambulance transport to and from various non-emergency hospital outpatient appointments, admissions and discharges. In 1997 I trained as a Vocational Driving Attendant responsible for driving an emergency ambulance working and supporting Paramedic’s as part of the crew. I then progressed to an Emergency Ambulance Technician managing and taking clinical responsibility for patients in emergency situations. This was a very rewarding job knowing you have made a difference in lifethreatening and urgent situations, working as part of a team and caring for both patients and their family members. There were however some very sad and stressful situations that took its toll over the years. I fell pregnant in 2001 and due to the nature of the emergency role, I was taken off front line duties temporarily. After the birth of my son in 2002 and my daughter in 2004, I made the decision to continue my career working in several management roles including resource management and commercial training team within EMAS. In 2009 I began a three-year course and completed an MBA at Derby University whilst still working. During this time a restructure within the service took place and I was given the role of Chemical Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Lead for the Trust, managing the Special Operations Response Team who would be utilised in the event of chemical spillages or major incidents across the region.
Working in this role I was also on call as the Silver Commander for specialist incidents such as airport emergencies, firearms incidents, major trauma and large-scale incidents. In 2014 I was promoted to Service Improvement and Innovation Manager, which I found both rewarding and challenging focusing on project work and a lot of report writing. In the final years I a trained as a pastoral care worker within the service to support staff through both personal and work-related concerns. Over many years of working in management, the knock-on effect psychologically of being a perfectionist took its toll. I worked extremely long hours alongside being on call as well as competing a master’s degree. Alongside all of this I still had to manage personal family issues and several deaths both in the family and at work, which all impacted on my own health and wellbeing. A combination of anxiety, tiredness and being overwhelmed for many reasons had led to a lack of confidence and a period of mental health concerns and taking antidepressants (although I would never have admitted this at the time due to a fear of being a failure). On a personal level, I missed the hands-on caring approach with patients (the original reason for joining the Ambulance Service). I had always had an interest in complementary therapies especially aromatherapy and considered this as a career option many years ago. When I had received treatments myself, I always left feeling disappointed as they appeared rushed with more focus on selling products and booking the next treatment rather than showing a genuine concern and care for clients. Following on from several counselling and mentoring sessions in 2014, I took the decision to retrain and qualify as a Complementary Therapy Practitioner. I researched several training courses that had to fit around my life, which wasn’t easy. It had to be adult learning and run at the weekend as I worked fulltime and had young children. I finally began my training with Sue Masters and her amazing team at Infinity Training Academy in Melbourne September 2014. In July 2016 I left my full-time role at EMAS and officially registered Serenity Station in September 2016. I worked for thirteen months at a local salon to gain experience and general knowledge of the industry and in 2017 I took the decision to be a full-time home-based salon, creating the right space and environment with complete flexibility, working around my family life. I am now a fully qualified, skilled, knowledgeable and experienced Complementary Therapies Practitioner and have one member of staff working at the home-based salon and hope to recruit another shortly. We offer a wide range of treatments including: Full Body Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Aromatherapy Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Heated Bamboo Massage, Thermal Auricular Therapy (ear candling) Indian Head Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Reflexology, Holistic Facials and Reiki. Within the home-based salon, I personally specialise in pregnancy massage and offer a Serenity Mums group with bimonthly coffee mornings that offer informal support. Alongside this I have a Facebook group to engage, communicate and share any hints and tips during and after their pregnancy in relation to health and well-being matters for both mum and baby.
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Over the last two years I have used my clinical, management and business experience skills to focus on building the Serenity Station branding with our Wellness in the Work Programme. Building on from being solo, I now have access to a large team of Complementary Therapy Practitioners who work with Serenity Station. The team offer bespoke packages to small, medium and large companies working with all levels of staff. We provide Practitioners for all types work environments, local events, shows and exhibitions. This has led to securing work at several wellbeing events and I am pleased with our continuous growth across the East Midlands. We offer our services to a variety of workplaces including schools, NHS Trusts, educational establishments, corporate offices and charities. We also provide complementary therapies to cancer patients and will be expanding our skill set to support these clients even further over the next few months alongside working with palliative care patients. I am extremely proud of the brand that we have developed in providing a unique high quality, unrushed service by taking the time to listen and understand client’s individual needs and tailoring their treatments holistically. I have a long-term strategic plan in growing the business, looking at integrated healthcare initiatives over the next few years with lots of exciting opportunities ahead. This is a fantastic vocation and it is great knowing that you can support and guide clients in managing their existing clinical conditions and help promote their overall health and wellbeing, physically, psychologically and emotionally. My advice for anyone thinking of going into the industry is don’t undervalue yourself, understand your pricing structure and charge accordingly
as you will have spent many hours studying and gaining your qualifications. Remember the transformation you can genuinely make to clients and signposting when required as they may need other specialist advice. Don’t underestimate the importance of self-care, make sure you take time for yourself, we often as practitioners don’t practise what we preach, the role can be very physical and emotional at times with long hours. Many don’t realise it’s not just the treatments, time needs to be planned in your daily routine for administration, managing the accounts, stock, planning social media, advertising, networking, training, general cleaning and even the laundry! I am a strong believer in supporting the younger generation. It is important for me to be a great role model and be open to guiding them where I can as they can sometimes be overlooked for a variety of reasons and miss the opportunity to shine. Savvy Social is a fantastic way to contribute and show my support to students in being exposed to the social media industry nurturing their talent, naturally. CONTACT SANDRA @ SERENITY STATION 3 Woods Meadow, Elvaston, Thulston, Derby, DE72 3UX 01332 588141 www.serenitystation.co.uk info@serenitystation.co.uk OPENING HOURS: Monday: Saturday: 9am - 8pm Sunday: 12pm - 6pm
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LADIES OF THE DANDY GENT Lauren Pell is one female in a very male dominated environment – but no complaints here, as her role is Senior Barber at one of the UK’s busiest and best traditional barber shop groups - The Dandy Gent. Lauren started working as a barber apprentice in 2016, she served her apprenticeship directly under The Dandy Gent’s founder and owner of its three shops – Shane O’Shaughnessy, and has fasttracked her career through sheer determination to succeed. “I did every job before falling in love with barbering – from bar work to retail – since I started cutting hair, I’ve never looked back.” Just 3 years from starting, and at the age of 32, Lauren is now one of The Dandy Gent’s most popular Senior Barbers, working in a team with a combined 100+ years’ experience. “I love my work, and the team I work with,” said Lauren. “We have a lot of fun, but take our business very seriously.” She explained. “It takes a certain character to hold my own, surrounded by these boys – but it’s all in good fun. I’m working with some very talented barbers here and there’s a lot of mutual respect that keeps the relationships healthy. “ For now, Lauren enjoys her work in one of the most successful barber shops in the UK – and that’s no idle boast. “We are second-to-none in the East Midlands, certainly,” explains Shane. “And our consistently impressive reviews speak volumes about Lauren and the whole team. I’m very proud of them all.” Although Lauren is one of just two female barbers in the unashamedly promoted ‘traditional’ barber shop brand, The Dandy Gent has two more ‘savvy women’ in its ranks. Sherri O’Shaughnessy, Shane’s wife and co-founder, who handmakes every single item in a range of over 25 grooming products, sold through the company’s three shops, website and to trade customers worldwide - and Marketing Manager, Sarah Monsoon who has been responsible for the growth of the brand over the last four years. “Lauren, Sarah and Sherri are all shining stars at The Dandy Gent, I value every one of them very highly – but please don’t tell them I said that.” Smiles Shane. Find out more on the quite incredible Sherri O’Shaughnessy in a future issue as she talks about her life combining the roles of business owner, creative entrepreneur and young mum.
SAVVY social
EVENT AND BUSINESS PROMOTION WITH A TWIST
CONNECT - INDULGE - ENGAGE - DEVELOP - SECURE
Connecting Businesses & Entrepreneurs across the East Midlands
WEBSITE: kukuconnect.co.uk
EMAIL: hello@kukuconnect.co.uk
CALL: 0116 2963723
FACEBOOK: @KuKuConnect