WiRE News and Opportunities
WiRE is pleased to announce the following:
The New WiRED directory
The new WiRE directory will be incorporated into the WiRED magazine and places in the directory are selling out fast! The WiRED magazine is currently undergoing an impressive makeover, with the re-launch expected in October. The new magazine will have two issues a year, with the directory being a key integral part. Listing your business in the directory will cost £15 per issue, which will include your logo, link and 60 words about your business. If you are interested please email claire@wireuk.org or call 01952 815338. The closing date is the end of August, although places may have sold out by then. It is an opportunity you can’t afford to miss!
WiRE join forces with Lantra - ‘Women and Work Initiative’
WiRE has joined forces with Lantra in supporting the ‘Women and Work Initiative’, which provides funding towards training courses in raising skills and unlocking potential.
The project is targeting women, employed and self employed, who work in England in the land based sectors, such as agriculture, horticulture, forestry, environmental conservation, engineering, game and wildlife management, (If you are unsure as to whether or not you qualify, please ask).
The training is tailored to the individuals needs and is for a minimum of 15 hours, costing at least £650. Lantra will refund £450 with the employer contributing £200. You will have the support of our Skills Coach and receive ongoing mentoring. All training is to be completed by 12th February 2010, so if you have staff that would benefit from developing their skills or you want to increase/update your own knowledge or skills, please enquire asap, as places are limited. Contact: Helen Allen on 07870 562404 or email: helen@wireuk.org |
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Exciting Exhibiting Opportunity! 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. Join us as an exhibitor to take advantage of a truly unique setting of string quartets, champagne bars and beautiful Christmas décor to sell your products to the most affluent and discerning of shoppers in Northern England. Visitors - The customers we target for Simply Christmas are
predominantly ABC1’s, and our research shows that the vast majority will be women between 30 - 60 years of age, i.e. those who have both the means and the desire to buy quality Christmas gifts. For more information or to book you stand please contact Stewart Taylor on 01323 472467. The website is full of useful information http://www.simply-christmas.co.uk/
WiRE's Facebook Page
Over 350 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. Want to join WiRE on Facebook and become a keen online networker? Then visit www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8561171654 and let your friends know!
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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. For more information call Emma on 01952 815451.
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WiRE Keeping you up to date
Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2010 just launched
The Queen’s Award for Enterprise has just opened for entries. The award is considered one of the most prestigious awards for UK businesses of all sizes. Any UK business with two or more employees which demonstrates outstanding commercial success can enter the awards, which has three categories: International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development. Entry forms can be downloaded from the Queen’s Awards website: http://www.queensawards.org.uk/ and must be submitted by 2pm on 30th October 2009. The winner will be announced on 21st April 2010.
Women's Work is launched
Woman’s Work is a new monthly one-stop resource for women. Providing
support for start-ups, the self-employed, those wishing to get back into
employment and established business-women in the Norfolk, Suffolk,
Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire areas. http://www.womanswork.co.uk/
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WiRE Member News and Events
WiRE member short listed for award
WiRE member Nikki Brown only established her business Canine Angel last year but has been short listed for the Bright Spark Award at the Business Link sponsored Switched-on.com awards. She has taught countless dog owners to become more of ‘the leader of the pack’ enabling them to take charge of their dog. She said: “I am over the moon that The Canine Angel has been short-listed for this prestigious business award. It just shows how the pet market is a big player in the local economy”. The Biz Live Awards are being held at Bingley Hall on October 1st and over 400 businessmen and women are expected to attend the glittering ceremony. For more information please visit www.canineangel.co.uk
Really Wild Farm Shop Opening - Pembrokeshire
Julia Horton-Powdrill, joint organiser of the new Pembrokeshire WiRE, is involved in opening a Really Wild Farm Shop in North Pembrokeshire. Located at Nant y Coy Mill, Wolfscastle, the shop will be offering high quality locally sourced products to both the visitors and the local communities. Julia will be encouraging both farmers as well as anyone with a large allotment to sell their products through the farm shop. For more information please visit the website www.reallywildfarmshop.co.uk |
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‘A Farmers Daughter’ Website goes live! - Staffordshire
WiRE member Helen Thompstone owner of ‘A Farmers Daughter’ has recently launched her collection of cards online. Helen’s cards are based around life on her family farm, and with an art degree under her belt there are some great designs to choose from. For more information on ‘A Farmers Daughter’ or to stock Helen’s cards please visit www.afarmersdaughter.co.uk.
Are you up for a challenge? Dynamic Office Administrator needed – Thirsk, North Yorkshire
A dynamic office administrator is required to organize and manage the operations of four integrated businesses. Croft Feed Enterprises, based at Burtree Mill, York Road, Thirsk, requires a self-motivated, focused person with excellent organizational and verbal communication skills to join their winning team. The successful applicant will also have: Excellent time management skill, Ability to think ‘outside the box’ to get things done, Confident multi-tasking abilities, Proficiency with IT including Microsoft applications Desirable, but not essential, are strong connections to the farming industry. Croft Feeds has a friendly working atmosphere in a farm-based environment offering a competitive salary, with performance related bonus, to the successful applicant. If you think you have got what it takes please ring Dawn Croft for an informal chat on 07803 174133 & follow up by CV to info@croftfeeds.co.uk.
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Teeny Beanies wins Local Business Prize – Shropshire
Teeny Beanies the producer of children’s character bean bag products entered the Shropshire Star ‘Star Business Idea’ and won! The competition organised by the Shropshire Star has been running for a couple of years and WiRE member Kerry Swinton was so excited to have won this year. Businesses that entered were selected by a panel of judges otherwise known as the ‘Dragons’. The judges were impressed with the Teeny Beanies bean bags and toys and Kerry made it to the final along with 2 other competing businesses. Each finalist made a 2 minute presentation of their idea and then the public were able to vote for their favourite idea. Kerry won £4000 after being supported by 3000 public votes, the most votes received to date. For more information on Teeny Beanies please visit the website www.teenybeanies.co.uk. |
WiRE member wins gardening Trophy- Shropshire
WiRE member Chris Spooner has just retrained at Pershore College in Garden design after 17 years as a podiatrist - finally pursuing her real passion. After much persuasion by her husband, Chris entered for the Mike Hough Trophy at Shrewsbury Flower Show (August) for garden design. One of the judges was well known garden designer and TV personality Chris Beardshaw. Much to Chris’s amazement she was joint winner with a group of innovative students who designed a joint effort from Staffordshire! Chris has recently launched her new business ‘Into the Garden’ and is excited for the times ahead. For more information please contact Chris on 01686 671049 or by email chris@into-the-garden.co.uk.
WiRE member on the book promotion circuit- Yorkshire
WiRE member Nadine Hill, author of ‘The Virtual Assistant Handbook’ is officially on the book promotion circuit! She has just had a glittering book launch party in Leeds to celebrate the books' Amazon best-seller status and she will be doing a book signing at the Fred Wade Bookstore in Halifax, West Yorkshire on 1st August - Yorkshire Day! WiRE members in the area can meet Nadine between 11am - 1pm at the store. For more information please email Nadine at enquiries@thedreampa.co.uk.
Distance Dieters in the Press- West Midlands
WiRE member Anna Mason recently featured in the Birmingham Post with her business ‘Distance Dieters’, which provides health plans for the professionals. The launch of ‘Distance Dieters’ was reported in the business section of the Birmingham Post. To read more visit the website www.distancedieters.co.uk and the link is on the home page. Not to be missed, book now ‘The Secrets of Easy Weight Loss’. A one-day workshop on 12th October. Discover how to lose weight by eating delicious seasonal foods. Details on the website. For more information please contact WiRE member Anna Mason by email anna@distancedieters.co.uk or call 0845 533 53 02. |
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“How we recover and make a comeback from setbacks” Radio Interview – East Midlands
WiRE member Annette Boden, an established Hypno-psychotherapist with a busy practise in the north of England was interviewed on the Shane 0’Connor Breakfast show on Radio Derby in July. The topic was recovering from setbacks and as a psychotherapist with a strong focus on ‘positive psychology’ the suggestions Annette made during the interview reflected her view that it is possible to overcome setbacks. Annette comments ‘it is a matter of learning from the setbacks and acknowledging what can be gained- for example redundancy can be seen as offering a way out from an unhappy work life and an opportunity to take another direction.’. For more information on the interview or psychotherapy please contact Annette on aboden1053@btinternet.com
WiRE member Internet Business for sale
For sale is an award winning internet business selling artisan made West Country cheese. The Website has full e-commerce facilities, membership system, customer review system, potential to add new products and categories and as a content managed site can be easily edited by the owner. It has 1000 entry customer database and info and images for 50 West Country Dairies and 150 cheeses. Web sales were up by 20% in 2008/9. Attracts around 1500 unique visitors each month. There is great potential to grow as a stand alone business, with added product lines or as a ready made on-line shop for existing business. Please visit the website www.thecheesegig.com and call Kath on 01460 234581 for more info.
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Rooms/Studio for Hire- Shropshire
Back and Body Care Clinic is an established complimentary health clinic situated in the centre of Newport, Shropshire and was opened in February 2009 by WiRE member, Liz Auliffe. There are two treatment rooms on the ground floor and a studio ideal for classes/workshops on the first floor. Kitchen facilities are also included. Excellent rates. Please call on 01952 825042 or email on info@backandbodycareclinic.co.uk or visit our website www.backandbodycareclinic.co.uk |
Craft Units Available – Maws Craft Centre- Telford
Maws Craft Centre based in Jackfield, Telford currently has the following units available:
1. Approx 550sq ft, first floor, sound-proofed and previously used as a recording studio. Rent £250 per month. (Available now)
2. Approx 800sq ft, ground floor, fully accessible. Rent £475 per month. (Available now)
3. Approx 191sq ft, ground floor. Rent £75 per month. (Available from 1st August)
All units are suitable for craft/light industrial or offices. Small business rate relief needs to be applied for from T&W Council. For more information please call 01952 883030 or email diane@mawscraftcentre.co.uk. Alternatively visit the website www.mawscraftcentre.co.uk
Naked Soap Company hits Waitrose – South West
WiRE member and North Cotswolds WiRE Network leader Emma Heathcote James is thrilled that from the beginning of August her natural and ethical soap products will be stocked in six Waitrose stores throughout the Cotswolds and Worcestershire regions. Emma only started her business in November 2008 and is overwhelmed with the companies success. For more exciting news from the Naked Soap Company become a fan on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Naked-Soap-Company/49818735619 or visit the website http://www.nakedsoapcompany.co.uk.
Dearnford Lake- Car Boot and Collectors Fair- Sunday 9th August- Shropshire
Come and beat the credit crunch at Dearnford Lake. Cash in your collectables, spring clean your attics and recycle unwanted items at the Dearnford Lake car boot and collectors fair! Stallholders can set up between 7.30 - 8.30am. The cost is as follows: Cars £8, Estate cars & 4x4s £10, Small vans/trailers £10 and Large trailers/vans £12. Gates open to the public at 8.30am and parking is free. Admission: Adults £1, Under 16s free. No dogs please. Booking forms are available on the website www.dearnford.com. For more information please call 01948 662934 or email jane@dearnford.com. The site is located in Whitchurch, alongside the A41/A49/A525 (postcode is SY13 3JQ).
Wild Women Ride Out! August 22nd 9.30am – 4.00pm – Shropshire
Very special pony trekking day in the beautiful Ceiriog Valley near Oswestry. One or two hour rides. Ponies for all levels. Light lunch at local inn plus visit to artist's glass studio with tea & homemade cake. Includes helmets, boots, lunch & tea. 1- hour ride £55, 2-hour ride £70. Booking essential: 0845 094 8486 or email info@womengowildoutdoors.com
Go Wild in Wales ! August 28th - 30th – Wales
Girlfriends need a break? Join our girly adventure. Guaranteed laughter and lashings of food at our Mid-Wales location. Try climbing and abseiling, cycle around a beautiful lake and take a short expedition in a tandem canoe. Suitable for novices. Fully catered with shared rooms in smashing 4* accommodation. A personal chef prepares your Friday welcome meal, full breakfast and evening barbeque. Picnic lunches included. All safety equipment provided.
Girlfriends Special Offer of 2 places for £420 or £250 per person. See our Photo Gallery at: http://www.womengowildoutdoors.com/Gallery/viewGallery.asp?id=36. To book: 0845 094 8486 or email info@womengowildoutdoors.com
Really Wild Food and Countryside Festival, St Davids on Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th September - Pembrokeshire
The 5th Really Wild Food and Countryside Festival will be held in St Davids, Pembrokeshire on September 5-6th. The festival is utterly unique, giving you the chance to get back in touch with the countryside; eat it, cook it, learn about it, even play with it! Held in sight of the sea and the ancient cathedral of St Davids, it’s the wildest day of culinary delights, rural traditions, music, storytelling and fun in the countryside you can desire! For more information please visit the website www.reallywildfestival.co.uk
Psychic Workshop with Barbara Guest - 12th September, 10am - 5pm, Meeting Point House, Telford.
A day of self-discovery where like-minded people of varied experience - ranging from some knowledge to the simply curious - can meet their guides, learn how to see and interpret auras, develop their psychic abilities, connect with their Higher Self, learn the most important secret of Psychic Development and much more in a safe and supportive environment with an experienced teacher. The day begins with a meditation specifically channelled for this event - why not join us for some fun? Further details see www.barbaraguest.co.uk or call Barbara on 01952 510561 (Mon-Fri, 09:30 - 7pm) |
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Creative Women Mini Showcase – Monday 14th September at 8pm- Stoke Prior Village Hall, Bromsgrove
Creative Women mini showcase supporting small businesses starts on Monday 14th September at 8pm. Come along for an Indian Cuisine demonstration and taster with Anita Sharma James. Many other associated food exhibitors including Red Kite Organic and Health foods. A really enjoyable evening for all, whilst supporting local business women! Tickets are £5, buy five tickets in advance and get one free. To book your tickets please contact Sue on 07970 747808 or Donnah 07786 065390.
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Dare to Blossom Life Coaching Workshops – 26th Sept & 24th October - South West
WiRE member Mary Lunnen of Dare to Blossom Life Coaching has two workshops coming up in the autumn: 'Embracing Abundance with Passion', Dunkeswell Business Park, near Honiton, Devon on 26th September and 'Coaching for Connection', Chacewater Village Hall, near Truro, Cornwall on 24th October. Both will be with a friendly and supportive group exploring how life coaching processes can be used in all areas of your life. Contact Mary via www.daretoblossom.co.uk for details, or to arrange an event in your area. |
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
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
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Other News and Events
Right Funds for You – 13th August - East Midlands
Are you an SME based in the East Midlands? Are you looking to fulfil your high growth potential by securing investment? If so, this friendly, informal event is for you. The seminar is fully subsidised for companies in the East Midlands and will take place on 13th August at Holywell Park in Loughborough. Presented by four industry experts, the event will cover grant, debt, venture capital and business angel finance options. There will also be an opportunity to network over light refreshments following the presentations. To book your place, please visit the website: http://www.connectmidlands.co.uk/web/cm/showevents.cfm?id=413 or call Christine on 01509 228702.
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Intellectual Property Office Event – 26th August - Derby
This free event, on 26th August in Derby, aims to offer help and advice to businesses who want to know more about trade marks and the value in registering them. Identifying these assets and realising their value can make an impact on the medium to long
term success of most businesses. This event will provide a seminar, networking opportunities, expert advice and support, along with industry professionals who will be on hand to offer guidance on individual questions during the day. Free parking is available at the venue and refreshments will be provided. For more information please visit the website: http://www.ipo.gov.uk/events-derby2009.htm]. |
Basepoint Business Centre- free office space – Evesham
Basepoint Business Centre Evesham has two great offers for businesses in the area. Basepoint are offering all start up businesses or people working from home 6 months free office space, you are free to leave before or after this time with no deposit required. You would be responsible for your own business rates and need to pay for telecoms and broadband, which Basepoint can provide. Also, Basepoint are offering a scheme for charities for 12 months of free space. If you are interested in taking space at Evesham Basepoint please contact Laura Griffiths on 01386 764700. Visit the website for more information on Basepoint http://www.basepoint.co.uk/evesham-centre.htm.
BBC show looing for entrepreneurs
Village SOS seeks six enterprising dynamic individuals to be employed
for a minimum of one year from May 2010, by community-owned village
businesses. The village businesses will receive start-up grants of
between £100k and £400k from the Big Lottery Fund and they will choose
their Village Champions from a pool of applicants. Whatever your skills,
you may be just the person a village needs! If you have entrepreneurial
flair, a record of running a successful business or project, and the
desire to live and work in a rural village, apply now! www.bbc.co.uk/villagesos LOCATION: SIX RURAL VILLAGES AROUND THE UK
SALARY: £30k CLOSING DATE: 14 AUGUST
Photography Opportunity for your business- West Midlands
My name is Alistair Nicol, I am 18 from Droitwich. I am currently
between studies and will be attending Falmouth University this September
to study photography. Currently I am offering my services to smaller
businesses. I have experience working with businesses of different
sizes, such as Turtle Bags- an Ecofriendly baggage company, right up to
RedCreative- the company which produces all of the online photographs
for Per Una (Marks and Spencer’s) and Liverpool/Manchester FC's
magazines. I would like to extend to you my services of photography. I
will take as many photos as you need of your products, with or without
a model (of which I will be happy to provide if you cannot find anyone
to be included yourself), edit these photographs and send them on to
you. The location can be at your digression or I am happy to offer my
knowledge of surrounding areas. I have a full driving license, so I am
happy to travel if necessary but if it is a distance I will cover myself
for my travel. I will charge the photographs at a price of £10 each.
That way I can cover my costs, and you will be able to have as little or
as many as your budget can cover. Please feel free to get in contact
with me if you are interested. My email address is ajln@hotmail.co.uk and mobile telephone number is 07891693126
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OFFERS
Special offers at Cherish Jewels
Michelle Mills-Porter owner of Cherish Jewels would like to offer WiRE members the following special offers:
1) A free designer necklace, matching earrings and bracelet made especially for you with every jewellery sale party hosted by you. (Valid until 30th September.)
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2) 25% off all jewellery workshops in your own home. Learn about gems, and make your own special piece with the guidance of Cherish jewels. Parties of 3-12 people. (Valid until 30th September.)
3) Also 25% off all little ladies jewellery workshop parties for the whole summer holiday! (Valid until 1st September.)
For more information please visit the website www.cherishjewels.co.uk or email enquiry@cherishjewels.co.uk
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10% off a Smoky Jo's Food Smoking Course for any WiRE member.
If there are WiRE members out there who would like to join forces - come in a group of 6 - and we will give you one place absolutely FREE. Great if you love food, like cooking, or have your own livestock. The offer applies to one-day and weekend courses -(when you will also catch a fish and make your own sausages to smoke!)
Come and learn how to both hot and cold smoke your own food at home, and enjoy a fun, interesting and tasty day out! To find out more e-mail: jo@smokyjos.co.uk, phone: 01931 716638 or visit the website www.smokyjos.co.uk |
A further 10% off the Garden Divas Sale for WiRE Members
WiRE member Gilly Brown, owner of Garden Divas Ltd would like to offer WiRE members a further 10% off sale prices and also new stock. Just simply quote WIREJ09 at the checkout. To grab yourself a bargain, visit http://www.gardendivas.co.uk.
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Special August offer: get £4 off great new guidebook
All WiRE women need to escape for a well-earned break every so often, and nothing is more relaxing than the great waterways outdoors. Martine & Phillippa of Coolcanals Guides offer WiRE members money off the hottest guidebook this summer - 'Cool canals' - packed with ideas for seriously chilled and sensibly adventurous days out and holidays on the inland waterways. Get your copy for £10.99 including P&P (RRP £14.99) - enter code WW01 at www.coolcanalsguides.com
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5% cash back on all your shopping and car fuel-
.....that’s not just groceries but clothing, health and beauty, DIY, electrical items and other 'stuff' from the likes of Argos. I am an Independent Distributor for the Utility Warehouse Discount Club who have partnered with MasterCard and 28 High Street retailers to give our members fantastic discounts every month. You'll save an extra 5% on everything you buy, both in store and online from participating retailers, including: Sainsbury’s, Argos, Boots, Burton, Comet, Dorothy Perkins, Evans, Goldsmiths, Halfords, Homebase, House of Fraser and many more! Visit www.telecomplus.org.uk/suebreedon for more information or Call Sue on 0800 093 4869 / 07970 390233 |
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10% Discount at ‘The Pampered Pooch’
WiRE member Elizabeth Newman has diversified from her bookkeeping business ‘By the book’ and has made a business out of her great love of dogs. Elizabeth has launched ‘The Pampered Pooch’ which is a range of Luxury Dog Shampoos blended with High Quality Essential Oils. WiRE members are offered 10% off their first order. For further information please contact Elizabeth by email: elizabethnewman@btinternet.com or call 01394 450264
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and Finally
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What’s caught our eye on the WiRE Rural Marketplace this month …
Hannah’s Choice –
Daisy Park - www.daisypark.co.uk
Emma Paisey – Found on the Rural Marketplace
www.wireuk.org/directory.aspx?member=2666
Whilst browsing the Rural Marketplace, I was attracted to Daisy Park by the simple yet elegant logo. Set up by Emma Paisey, Daisy Park offers a wide range of beautiful shabby chic gifts and accessories to give any home that wonderful country cottage feel. Perfect as gifts for loved ones or as treats for oneself, the goodies on offer at Daisy Park are individual and lovingly crafted. Daisy Park also offers a range of larger furniture items, all at very reasonable prices. I especially like the White Heart Trug and the Cute Shabby Chic Shelf, both practical yet gorgeous.
Having just opened their first shop in North Devon I sadly will be unable to visit in person! However Emma is delighted to announce that Daisy Park’s first brochure is now available, asking anyone interested to contact her for a copy, and of course you can browse all of the items on her fantastic website. Happy Shopping!
Hannah
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Past Issues of E-Newsletter
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Past Issues of Wire Directory
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