Lisa Sanderson has launched her own entertainment business after visiting the start-up team at the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC).
After enjoying a career with Barclays that spanned over 10 years Lisa accepted redundancy and began following her dream to self-employment. After visiting the BIC, Sanderson’s Parties and Events became established in July last year, operating all over the region offering a party hire service.
Business adviser, Margaret Cook met with Lisa to discuss her business idea and the practical steps to get it off the ground. The programme run by the BIC is being part financed by the European Union’s ERDF Competitiveness Programme 2007-13, securing £1.47m ERDF investment.
Working in a consortium led by North East Enterprise Agencies Ltd (NEEAL) local Enterprise and Development Agencies in the North East have matched this ERDF investment with £1.47m of their own funds.Lisa said:
“A family member who had visited the BIC many years ago praised the service they had received so I made no hesitation in making an appointment. Being my own boss was something I had looked at doing a while ago and once redundancies were mentioned I decided to go for it. I think the main thing that had been setting me back had been a lack of confidence and self-belief, along with timing.
“When I had my little girl it made me realise I wanted to do something different, I didn’t want to go back to the 9-5. Margaret has been so supportive since our first meeting. I think it just helps to have someone believe in you and think your idea has potential to be a successful business.”
The company offers famous character mascots including well-loved princesses, face painting and bouncy castles everything to ensure a memorable party. Lisa continues:
“The response to the business has been fantastic and I have many parties lined up but interestingly I am getting requests for other occasions too like christenings and even a couple regarding weddings.
“Eventually I will be supplying party needs for any social gathering.
“I urge anyone else out there to just go for it, if you have an idea and a passion then contact the BIC start up team. I am so pleased I did, I’ve never looked back and certainly don’t miss the 9-5 job.”
Margaret adds: “Lisa knew where she wanted to take her business and has long term goals and plans securely in place ensuring her company’s longevity and success. I wish her the very best.
“If you are thinking about self employment then give the business start up team a call and book your free appointment today 0191 516 6149.”
