With creative flair, a keen interest in photographic work and a knack for capturing a good picture, sisters-in-law Holly and Catherine Watson wanted to work together to set up their own business.  Catherine’s previous work as an arts event project coordinator and lecturer in photography at Gateshead College and Holly’s experience of project management and of running a photographic business meant that, between them, they had built up an extensive portfolio of work and experience.

Through the Enterprise Bridge Programme in Northumberland, NBSL’s (Northumberland Business Service Ltd) Hexham based Business Adviser Sylvia Grainger supported Catherine and Holly to develop their wedding photography business idea, research their target market and work on producing a business plan.  Sylvia said, “My working with Holly and Catherine was centred on assisting them to develop their idea, broaden their market research, and create a strong business plan.  We then enabled access to funding through Business Link North East towards the cost of equipment to set-up their business.”

Chrysalis Photographics launched at the Living North Spring Fair held at Newcastle Racecourse in April, running a Free Prize Draw with 1st prize of a wedding day photo shoot.  The free competition proved popular – several runners-up received discounts towards photo shoots for their special days! 

Holly and Catherine both found the free advice and services from the team at NBSL of huge benefit in their business planning and implementation of their new venture.  They stated, “The whole process from start to finish, whilst taking time, has been vital and has really helped us to focus on many aspects of our business and refine our business plan. The guidance and advice we have had has been invaluable to us and has given us a firm footing and the confidence to grow and develop our business. Gaining new skills and knowledge in planning, web design (see us at www.chrysalisphotographics.co.uk) and finance have helped us get this business off the ground.”

Sylvia added, “Many people we work with have found at some point, that the idea of starting their own business is a bit daunting or that they didn’t know where to go for help.  Here at NBSL we have plenty of assistance available to help you develop your idea into a business and then ensure you receive the correct, ongoing support for your new company to help it grow and succeed.  Chrysalis Photographics have started off strongly, and we are proud to have had the opportunity to assist them to do so.”

Having secured £715,000 of ERDF investment through regional development agency One NorthEast, NBSL’s Enterprise Bridge Programme is part financed by the European Union’s ERDF Competitiveness programme 2007-13 which supports innovation, enterprise and business support across the North East. 

So, if you are interested in starting your own business or maybe wondering if you could work for yourself from home; NBSL’s experienced advisers will offer confidential one-to-one free advice on a comprehensive range of areas including exploring and developing your ideas; assessing what you need to set-up; developing your personalised action plan and guiding you through all the areas you need to know (as experienced by Holly & Catherine).

NBSL has Advice Centres located on the high streets of Hexham, Morpeth, Blyth, Ashington, Alnwick and Berwick. Just look-out for our logo on our windows and pop in, call us on 01670 813322 or visit www.nbsl.org.uk to find the contact details for your local NBSL Business Advice Centre.