Small Business is Big Business event with Boris Johnson and Tim Campbell

Having found the invitation via Twitter (can you believe that is how we network sometimes now?!) I thought it would be thoroughly enjoyable to attend the Q&A that was being held in St Paul's with the Mayor himself and a selection of panelists to discuss the ramifications of the credit crunch on small businesses.

After a small introduction of each panelist, the questions came flooding in from the audience. Electric vehicles, the banks, scope for growth, social enterprises and more (as well as the CC) were discussed. About 500 people attended the event; I had hoped for a little more banter on small businesses in particular, and even micro businesses. The issue of funding is still major and often a real hindrance for some reaching their goals. I have to say, the room was packed with energy, vibrancy and entrepreneurial flair. I was honoured to be a part of it and as soon as I could, ran down to speak to the panelists myself.

I have actually met Boris Johnson before in Oxford prior to him becoming Mayor. I find him hilarious; incredibly articulate, bright and charasmatic. Tim Campbell was inviting, passionate and energetic. He was really pioneering social enterprise and helps a lot of underprivaliged children focus on their skills and building certain attributes. Sue Terpilowski is from the Federation of Small Businesses, of which I and BoBelle are members. The FSB exists to bridge the gap between businesses and the government. If ever you have an issue with something, you can call the FSB. If ever you need advice on insurance, HR queries or networking, you can call the FSB. They really are fantastic and a great asset to have. Colin Stanbridge, as well as being noted for working at the BBC for as long as I can remember, is part of the Chamber of Commerce. He again was incredibly articulate and found him to be light-hearted and gentle, too.

I wanted to question Boris, Sue et al issues on finance, how London is helping businesses grow, what incentives there might be for micro companies and how they think England will get out of this recession. Of course, not all of my questions were answered! I do however have all contact details so will find out more and let you know.

I am really looking forward to the next event; I hope it is longer next time. It is a great way to boost one's confidence; there is nothing more exhilierationg and exciting than meeting budding business men and women who are all in the same position and who all have one thing on their mind; growth.

Let's see how BoBelle London will carry on growing, shall we?

Pictured above are the programme and the panel of judges, with Boris standing

Busy week - magazine meetings, new styles, Fenwick's and more...

BoBelle is really starting to make its mark in the fashion world and I am absolutely thrilled. I had another meeting with Fenwick's Brent Cross and they have just had their new order sent to them which they love! They have doubled on their initial order which is fantastic. They have purchased the Chloe Wallet, Aphrodite Wallet, Theia Clutch Bag, Hestia Keyring, Calypso Keyring, Gaia Purse and the Athena Purse all in a variety of colours. They adore the Royal Blue in particular, and know that the Mocha will sell instantly. Pop into Fenwick at Brent Cross and see BoBelle London next to Michael Kors, Donna Karen and Mulberry....

In addition to Fenwick's last week, I had a meeting with one of the fabulous editors at Grazia. They love the new Melissa Handbag and took the samples of the new Mocha and Light Grey!! Let's hope they use them in the June issue....what is more, today I have a meeting with Stylist magazine, the free one we all get in the week from the Evening Standard. The number of people I see reading that freebie is phenomenal...if I can get BoBelle in there that would also be fantastic! Taking lots of styles and an array of colours with me, so again, fingers crossed.

This Thursday I am presenting at the Green Collar Woman styling event. If you would like to attend please click here and register your interest. I personally am going to talk about fashion and the ethical fashion world in particular. In a world of ever-increasing disposable fashion, how can professional women wear ethical to work? I am also giving those lucky ladies a special discount on BoBelle London products. It is so difficult to be ethical all of the time, but little steps do help and I am going to prove that British made products and fairly traded attire do exist.

Off now to get ready for Stylist....but again, if you would like to get in touch please do email me. The Green Collar Woman event is being held at: Caponata 3-7, Delancey Street, London NW1 7NL from 6-8.30pm and will be great networking.

I look forward to hearing fromy ou soon!

Best wishes

Claire

Just a few images of some of the styles and colours stocked in Fenwick Brent Cross, London NW4.

BoBelle London and Very Good Service - Social Media contact

Through the wonder that is Twitter, Vicky stumbled across the site, Very Good Service - a site that is dedicated to highlighting those exclusive brands that have gone the extra mile with their service to their customers. The website has huge names such as Debenhams, Smythson, Ocado and more. The general public can recommend sites that have award-winning service and the company can then be considered for Very Good Service. When you are trauling through the internet trying to find a brand that is reputable, honest, reliable and punctual just heading to Very Good Service can save you valuable time.

BoBelle London is now featured on Very Good Service and we are thrilled at the achievement as we are among some of the top major companies in the UK. Our awards which we have won so far have made us eligible for the location on the site. My personal winning of the Top 100 Entreprenurs in 2008 with Striding Out, my Fellowship of the Royal Society of Arts, being seen in Red Magazine as their Ethical Entrepreneur, being the example of the Daily Mail Enterprising Britain Award and winning the Judge's Special Award with DediPower have all helped boost BoBelle London's profile and reputation.

Our customers are thrilled with the service we provide and we endeavour to go that extra mile with each and every one of our valued clients. Being small certainly has its benefits as you can be flexible in your working and really listen to customers' feedback. This is vital for growth and for maintaining exclusivity.

Keep up-to-date with BoBelle London's progress by joining our Facebook Fanpage and following us on Twitter - we have some REALLY exciting developments happening and it would be wonderful to hear from you!

Best wishes

Claire Watt-Smith

Founder, BoBelle London

http://www.bobelle.co.uk/