Autumn Milestones and Obstacles

As my list of ‘firsts’ and new experiences keep expanding, it seems only natural that I would face some challenges along the way. Obstacles are an inherent part of the entrepreneurial journey, whether they stem from within, from those around us, or from our environment.

Let’s kick things off with some exciting news from the past month. Drumroll, please... I finally got my personal license! After what felt like a marathon of phone calls, I finally got through to the licensing team a whole month after putting in my application, only to find out that it hadn’t yet been entered into their system.

However, throughout this journey, I’ve learned to remain calm and chose to articulate the consequences of their delay to them. Without a personal license, I couldn’t obtain a premises license, which meant my business couldn’t fully open, staff couldn’t be hired, and we were likely too late for the Christmas season. That seem effective, as the wheels started turning, and my personal license arrived the very next week — another milestone accomplished!

While navigating that situation, I was also managing another first: fulfilling a unique gift order for an awards ceremony. To complete the corporate gift hamper order, I collaborated with no fewer than ten different suppliers. It was fantastic to work with some of our established makers, as well as new ones. There were others who had quoted but weren’t the right fit this time; and I look forward to future collaborations with them. From the silver-foiled gift hampers, to artisan snacks and stationery (including a very specific request for silver-foiled black envelopes in the tight timescale), I was thrilled with how beautifully the hampers turned out for the winners, especially when I saw their excited posts on social media about indulging in their artisan, made in UK gifts and treats. For the client, this was an excellent promotional tool for their event, enhancing their visibility in their industry.

Were there challenges during the order process? Absolutely. But with diligent risk and issue management, I effectively tackled them. When delivery issues arose, I took a hands-on approach, got behind the wheel myself, ensuring there were no delays for the client, lost items, or damages during transit.

Another first was attending the Country Live show at the Business Design Centre in Angel. Admittedly, it was a packed day, as I also visited The Business Show at Excel! It also involved a round trip from London back to Gloucestershire in one day, but I wouldn’t trade that experience. I had the opportunity to meet potential corporate clients for our gift hampers I can’t wait to work with at The Business Show and then connect with incredible artisans at the Country Live/Good Housekeeping event. I’m excited to onboard their products, which will be fantastic additions to our store!

Currently, finding the right premises for the business is at the top of my to-do list. I now feel confident in establishing a multi-channel operation. My experience at the Autumn Fair highlighted how crucial it is for clients to interact with products physically—touching, smelling, and sometimes tasting them - alongside our workshop. Unfortunately, I’ve missed out on a couple of properties this month for various reasons, some of which were beyond my control, setting me off on a spin.

Typically, I handle self-doubt well, but with the array of social and environmental hurdles encountered, I’ve been tested! Thankfully, a good walk in the near artic conditions and some reading helped me regain my perspective and inspired me to jot down my thoughts here. I recognise I am fortunate to have discovered work that I am passionate about, and nothing compares to the joy I find in working with artisans, the opportunity to create meaningful jobs for others and helping businesses achieve their goals through impactful corporate gifting. I’ve renewed my efforts in the search for premises and reassessed my criteria.

From that well-known movie, all I can think of is the phrase, "Just keep swimming..." Whatever obstacles you're facing, keep pushing forward. It's only a matter of time before things shift! That’s a lesson I’m embracing too.

I hope you enjoyed this little update. Until the next time and smiling,

D. x