WiRE News and Opportunities
WiRE is pleased to announce the following:
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Tory the new member of the Team!
First of all - Hello! I may have spoken to some of you over the past couple of weeks but to many I am still a complete stranger. I recently took over from Claire Wassell as the placement student for this year. I am looking forward to meeting many of the fantastic WiRE members and learning all about the businesses you run. The year I have ahead with WiRE is going to be a great experience and opportunity. Don’t forget to send me your 75 words on local events, news and success stories by the 23rd of each month to be included in your great e-newsletter! tory@wireuk.org . |
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Website
We have been planning our new website for quite a long time now and we are very excited about the way it looks and the long term functionality. It’s a CMS system which means we will have loads of flexibility over content and pages and opportunities to promote your rural businesses. It was all scheduled to be tested and perfect to be launched at the end of this year BUT as with all the best laid plans circumstances overtook us and a catastrophic failure in the server of our old website meant that an unfinished site had to be launched.
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I won’t go back over the problems, but thanks to all of you for being so patient when: your password changed 5 times and you still couldn’t login, your Rural Marketplace entry disappeared, the network events were all over the place and there was Latin sprinkled around. Our webmaster and the rest of us are working non-stop to make it all work, it is getting better and we promise it will be fantastic one day soon! In the meantime if you have any queries please call 01952 815338 or email webmaster@wireuk.org
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HSBC
We apologise to those of you who received a letter from HSBC about your membership and card processing rates. You should have received a letter telling you to ignore the first letter, it was a genuine mistake and we are very sorry. The customer help line is 0845 702 3344 please do give them a call if you have any worries and to check that you are getting the best possible card processing rate from HSBC.
Last few stands Available! Simply Christmas Fair 2009
Harrogate International Centre- 27th-29th November 2009
WiRE members are being given the fantastic opportunity to exhibit at the Simply Christmas Fair in Harrogate at a discount price of £180 per sq/m instead of £230 per sq/m. This will include: wooden shell scheme, power, lighting, storage, sign and maintenance. The organisers are delighted to bring this magnificent event to the North of England, which has been long-anticipated and eagerly awaited by exhibitors and visitors alike. With similar events in London attracting tens of thousands of visitors, Simply Christmas in Harrogate is expected to attract 250+ exhibitors and in the region of 15,000-20,000 visitors. For more information or to book your stand please contact Stewart Taylor on 01323472467. The website is full of useful information http://wwww.simply-christmas.co.uk
Country Living Magazine-Spring Fair- 24th – 28th March 2010 - London
WiRE Members have got the brilliant opportunity to come and show off their products as you have the chance to book a stand at the Spring Fair. It is now in its 19th year and is proving to be as successful as ever. The cost is £180 per m²+vat. The show has growing attendance with 20,178 people visiting last year with 96.4% of those being female therefore there is plenty of people exhibiting as well as visiting to get networking with. It takes place in Islington, London and runs from 24th-28th March. If you are interested then please contact Nicola Irving on 020 7288 6071.
WiRE's Facebook Page
Over 380 of you have already joined the WiRE Facebook page to gain access to up to date information, photos, reviews, event information, discussion boards and much more. If you want to join WiRE on Facebook and become a keen online networker visit our page. www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8561171654. Make sure you let all your friends and family know! |
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WiRE’s Twitter Page
For more online social networking follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/WiREUK , at the moment we have 135 followers, let’s try and get as many followers as we do friends on Facebook!
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WiRE Opening Doors Workshops-FREE to New Businesses in the West Midlands
WiRE Opening Doors hold a range of workshops available to any new businesses or any women looking to set up in business in the West Midlands. Business Advisors are also available to talk to you regarding starting your business or to advise you on the initial stages. Dates for October and November are now available. 29th October in Shropshire, 11th November in Worcester. For more information contact Heather at heather@wireuk.org .
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WiRE PARTNERS
Bringing you the best professional services
It’s a competitive world out there so here at WiRE we have been trying to find some good deals for members. We are delighted to welcome 3 new partners; all dedicated to helping Rural Businesswomen succeed. WiRE partners are carefully selected to ensure that they offer a good deal, are easy and friendly to work with and support the work of WiRE. You will be hearing more from WiRE partners: they will be writing informative, industry articles for the magazine will talk at the networks and will keep us informed of any industry news. Please take advantage of the partners and their offers, make sure you tell them you are a WiRE member (they have all been well briefed on what to expect) and please let us know how you get on.
The most frequently asked question (well, after are there any grants?) is what sort of insurance do I need, so WiRE are very pleased to welcome new partners BiB Insurance:- specialists in rural business insurance. This national company originated in a rural area and maintain a strong rural presence. They have a dedicated and highly experienced rural underwriting team and a clear understanding of the needs of rural business. BiB have a Rural Retail Scheme which truly reflects the needs of the rural community. Call 01325 353888 and ask for Helen or email enquiries@bibinsurance.co.uk for informal, friendly rural advice. |
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One of the biggest problems facing rural businesses is planning and the rules/regulations surrounding changes of use for land and buildings, so WiRE are delighted to offer the expertise of new partners. Davies and Co:- based in the East Midlands they have unrivalled expertise in all aspects of rural diversification. They advise farm and rural businesses on all areas of planning and legalities and are specialists in leisure, tourism and visitor attractions. Speak to their specialist advisors on 01536 524808 or E-mail: info@daviesandco.co.uk for a no obligation chat.
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You only have one chance to make the sale and create a happy customer so you need to offer multiple payment options, including credit cards. HSBC Merchant Services offer WiRE members preferential rates on card processing services: no set up fee, reduced rate terminal rental and lower transaction charges. Call the Business Team on 0800 731 8921 (make sure you tell them you are a WiRE member).
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Not a new partner but old friends, Dyke Ruscoe & Hayes rural accountants and (as they say themselves) country boys and girls, offer WiRE members a free no obligation initial consultation (either by phone or face to face) and are specialists in all aspects of rural business finance, tax and business support. Call 01584 810322 or email tenbury@dykeruscoe.co.uk
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WiRE Keeping you up to date
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Up for grabs- £4.5 million for Lancashire Rural Businesses
£4.5 million is on offer thanks to the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) for rural businesses in the Lancashire area with the aim to improve development and productivity within the area. Rural businesses can apply for funding from three local action groups which will have representatives from the private, public and voluntary sector. The funding is available for a range of projects that vary from rural businesses that wish to diversify, providing access to training and skills development or renewable energy installations. For more information visit www.lancashire-ep.org.uk and click on events. |
Small Firms- Bring on the Future!
Nearly half small and medium sized businesses are expected to see a rise in trade over the coming year according to research carried out by the Forum of Private Business (FPB). In the survey that the FPB carried out, it found that firms employing less than nine members (micro businesses) were the most likely to see their businesses bloom over the next six months. The business was expected to see an increase in trade as a result of concentrated sales and marketing campaigns. From that survey it found that 13% of companies are all ready experiencing a rise in their orders. To learn more visit http://www.newbusiness.co.uk/articles/planning-advice/small-firms-optimistic-over-future
Small Businesses to tackle Youth Unemployment!
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) told the Labour party that SME’s are highly important when it comes to tackling youth and graduate unemployment. With graduates and school leavers entering the job market at one of the worst times since 1992 it is not a surprise that youth unemployment has hit 950,000. The FSB believes that the government must ensure that all small businesses have the right tools available to them to help combat the problem of high youth unemployment. To read more on what the FSB has plans to do and how it wants to combat youth unemployment visit http://www.smebusinessnews.co.uk/
It’s 85 days till Christmas BUT….
The festive buying has all ready started; therefore you need to be prepared ladies. Take a look at the top 10 tips for the approach to the Christmas period. Make sure that you are prepared for the rush, you have a helping hand for the busy time ahead, get the word out to your customers, get plenty of stock ready to fill demand, keep cash flowing, get your loved ones to support you through the busy period and plan for the year ahead. For more tips visit http://www.bytestart.co.uk/content/24/24_6/xmas-trading-tips.shtml
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WiRE Member News and Events
Ali is flying!
WiRE member Ali Millard is in this September/October edition of the Flybe Magazine, she has written an article to answer the question “Recession Busting: You’d have to be crazy to start a business during the recession, Right? We meet four people who did just that”. Ali explains about how she started her business and what research she found to be useful including the WiRE website.
“The Game of Life” is released!
Shropshire based life coach Louise Presley-Turner unveils her new
Book, 'The Game of Life': It is full of powerful exercises and techniques, providing you with a step-by-step guide to achieving the life you really want, from setting up your own business, increasing self-esteem, living your dreams, finding love, making more money, creating inner peace much more. Visit www.thegameoflife.co.uk or buy your copy directly from Amazon ISBN: '9781449011239' |
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Charity Chic
WiRE member Charlotte Carver has designed a stylish purple-lined black patent shopper bag to raise funds for her Project POPS (Passing On Parenting Skills via Family Caring Trust resources) able to make a huge difference to women with families. The Charity Shopper Autumn/Winter 2009 is a great present for girlfriends: every woman will want one! Bag it now for £19.95 post-free from charlotte@bidderscroft.com or Phone 01684 592179. Trade terms available for charity/school fundraisers and sponsors.
Jules reaches the Final!
WiRE member Jules Wyman has reached the final of “Britain’s Next Top Coach”. She is the only female to be in the final, so big congratulations go to Jules for reaching the final stages and the best of luck for the results! If you would like to look further into what Jules business has to offer then please visit www.positive-belief.com.uk .
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New Inspiration for another Gorgeous Day…
A unique offering has arrived from online store another gorgeous day. Do you love sayings, quotes and meaningful words? If you do you will love this brand new website. Words can be inspiring, show how much you care or make you laugh and smile. A few well chosen words on quality gifts, home accessories and journals will make yours or someone else’s day another gorgeous day. Say it with words at www.anothergorgeousday.co.uk |
The Dearnford Lake Wedding Fayre – 18th October 2009 - Shropshire
The Dearnford Lake Wedding Fayre will be held on Sunday 18th October and the organiser Jane Bebbington is looking for WiRE members who would like to exhbit. Jane is looking for member who produce bespoke wedding stationary, chocolate ice sculpture, personalised chocolates and wrappers, wedding cakes, wedding shoes or vintage wedding cars. For more information please contact Jane on 01948 662934 or email jane@dearnford.com. Details of Dearnford Lake can be found on the website www.dearnford.com
ILPH Christmas Fayre – 31st October – Norwich
The International League for the Protection of Horses near Norwich, (ILPH) is holding a Charity Christmas Fayre on Saturday 31st October and WiRE members are invited to sell their crafts or showcase their businesses from 10.00am onwards.
It is a great venue, off the A11, easy to find, plenty of parking space, lovely restaurant and play area for children. If you are interested please contact Sue Brewer on 07747861243 or
e-mail sue@ribrewer.co.uk
Start your Christmas shopping! – 12th November - Shropshire
A made in Shropshire Christmas Fayre is being held on12th November 2009 at Fauls Hall, near Market Drayton, 6.30-9pm. Everything on the stalls will be made in Shropshire, and the proceeds are going to County Air Ambulance. I'm hoping to encourage people to support local businesses, the environment and a brilliant charity this Christmas. It is £10 a stall. If you are interested in a stall please contact Jo Warner, Email: jojowarner@hotmail.co.uk or Phone: 01630 653739.
Christmas Fair at Wyevale Garden Centre-21st-22nd November 2009-Hereford
This is the 3rd year of this local and regional Christmas Fair highlighting exhibitor of fine food, drink, produce and gift producers. With a new cafe area in a beautiful marquee, central to the Fair, in a festive and ambient setting and with a marvellous array of foods, drink and gifts, do join us as an exhibitor. Contact Gail at h.mittelholzer@btinternet.com for exhibitors forms and letter or ring 01981 540819.
"Think Christmas ... Think Shopping ... Think Networking” – 24th November - Suffolk
BT Tradespace are sponsoring the Christmas Bazaar being arranged by the West Suffolk Network in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk which will be held at http://Ravenwoodhall.co.uk on Tuesday, 24th November from 7.30pm. This is a great opportunity to market your products before the Christmas rush for only £10 per stall. Please contact Alex Parr by e-mail alexparr@lineone.net to reserve your place. Why not come along and support your rural community by having a fun evening and possibly be tempted by some of the wonderful treats on offer?" |
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Learn to Paint! October, November and December - Bromsgrove
WiRE member Lynda Kettle is running courses for beginners through out October, November and December. Different months cover different topics such as watercolour, acrylic and soft pastel with the opportunity for you to take home your very own master piece at the end of the session. The courses are held over two days and take place at the Stoke Prior Craft Centre, Bromsgrove. To book your place on one of Lynda’s courses then contact her on lynda_kettle@mac.com or visit her website www.lynda-kettle.com.
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Other News and Events
Dinner for Michael Winner…
A new food series is coming to ITV1 and we're looking for people across the country who love cooking and hosting dinner parties any type of cuisine is welcome; British, Indian, Italian, Chinese, Modern European. It's a prime time series searching for the UK's best home cooks to host a dinner party for Britain's most famous restaurant critic, Michael Winner. It's an incredible opportunity to show off some fantastic home cooking and hosting skills. If you would like further information please call on 0207 156 5770 or email sophie.wells@12yard.com
Are you East of England’s next Businesswomen of the year?
In 2008 Lucy Reeves a WiRE member won the “Young Businesswomen of the Year award” for the east of England. She found the process even the early stages to be very rewarding as it made her review her business and consider the positive and negative points to her business. Standing in front of panels of judges gave her a great confidence boost. There are three different categories you can apply for so take a look at what is available at http://www.eebw.co.uk/awards.htm and if you would like any advice then contact Lucy on lucy@muddymatches.co.uk
WiRE members are invited to….
“PLANNING FOR BETTER TIMES” 8th October - Northamptonshire
A conference designed to update and inspire on rural planning matters that matter.
It is taking place on Thursday 8 October 2009 at Kelmarsh Hall, Northamptonshire,
NN6 9LY If you would like to know more about this conference then please visit www.biac.co.uk/ and then click on the “Events” tab.
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Invitation to a fantastic FREE 1 day Conference - 12th October – Peterborough
What Women Want: raising confidence, building careers: is a free conference specifically for women who want to set up their own business or get back into employment. It is being held on Monday 12th October times are 9.30am-3.30pm at the Holiday Inn Peterborough West, Thorpe Wood, Peterborough PE3 6SG. To book your place visit http://nwes.org.uk or contact Lucy conference@nwes.org.uk or 0845 6099991 |
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Think ahead to 2012! – 13th October - Shropshire
Could your business capitalise on the opportunities created by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games? To find out, attend one of our FREE workshops on 13th October 2009. It is delivered by Shropshire Chamber of Commerce; these three hour workshops will outline the huge variety of new business opportunities for companies across the West Midlands region created by the 2012 Games. To register on this seminar please email Chris Jones on c.jones@shropshire-chamber.co.uk
Made in Worcestershire – October 17th - 24th – Worcestershire
Madeinworcestershire.com is a recession busting event that takes place throughout the county from October 17th to 24th, 2009. Events will include an arts, crafts and garden produce sale and exhibition of work to show how proud we are of Worcestershire and the work we produce. It will take place in the makers own home, workshop, shed, garage, tent on the lawn or wherever creativity can take place. To find out more please visit the website for the latest information www.madeinworcestershire.com
Open Day – Harper Adams University – 29th October - Shropshire
Come and see the fantastic facilities we have on offer at Harper Adams University College and sample our award-winning catering. We can host meetings, seminars, training days, birthday parties, christenings, weddings, celebrations, presentations, music concerts, art presentations, lectures etc. Harper Adams University College is conveniently located and set in a 600 acre estate within the beautiful Shropshire countryside with ample free car parking. It is easily accessible from the Telford, Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton areas, and we are 15 minutes from the M54. We offer a wide variety of excellent catering, all locally sourced, and our catering staff will be on hand during the lunch to answer any questions you may have.
Call Sue Henderson on 01952 815324 or email shenderson@harper-adams.ac.uk
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International Enterprise Promotion Convention – 15th-17th November – North Yorkshire
This convention will bring together many of the organisations in the UK and internationally that specialise in helping individuals to start their own business, guiding them through the initial development stage to a secure trading position in their own country and onward into the global marketplace. Register by 30th September for the lower fees; see the website for further details. www.enterprisepromotion.org |
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OFFERS
Simply Staffordshire is Sustainable
Simply Staffordshire is offering new courses for sustainable living. Maggie and Emily have added the new courses to the already successful Grow Your Own days. Guests will learn a range of new skills and hobbies from Hedge Laying and Life Drawing to Willow Crafts and Quilting while connecting with the Staffordshire Countryside. The courses are fun, relaxed and taught by experienced, accredited and qualified tutors (10% off for WIRE members). Contact Emily on 01889 591844or visit the website www.simplystaffordshire.co.uk
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Tendering illuminated – West Midlands
Gain confidence and necessary skills to be successful in tendering.
The first steps in tendering – half day workshop AM
22nd October-Birmingham, 17th November-Wolverhampton and 8th December-Worcester
The tender response – half day workshop PM
22nd October-Birmingham, 17th November-Wolverhampton and 8th December-Worcester
Tender interview / presentation, Contract negotiation – full-day workshop
18th November-Birmingham and 9th December-Wolverhampton
COST: £ 60- half-day workshop/£ 95- full-day (10% off for WiRE Members)
Contact Inge - email inge.hill@pathcreating.com or call 0845 4581644/079 41199172
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and Finally
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What’s caught our eye on the WiRE Rural Marketplace this month …
Heather’s Choice –
Sweet As -www.sweet-as.co.uk
Jenny Hudson
Tory asked me just before lunch if I could browse the Rural Marketplace for this month’s e-newsletter.
So when I saw Jenny Hudson’s company “Sweet As” I just had to take a look! The first page is soooo tempting with the big chocolate heart you just have to browse! The Gallery is amazing and no one could say it doesn’t get your taste buds tingling (or perhaps that’s just me being a chocoholic??)
I’ll just have to make sure I leave the website address around the house for a big hint – perhaps a lovely chocolate & strawberry cake for my birthday?!!? If not I’ll just have to order the Brownies myself …….
Heather
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Past Issues of E-Newsletter
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Past Issues of Wire Directory
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