Shepherds Purse Cheeses first became involved in the Family Ties Business Awards in 2010. Unfortunately due to other commitments no one from the family could attend the ceremony but Andrea kindly offered to represent us. On the night she collected the Red Ribbon Small Family Business of the Year Award. On the back of this award Paul Andrews, Director of Family Business Place, asked if I would speak at the 2011 conference and of course I agreed!
The conference was held at The Royal College of Surgeons in Lincoln Inn Square, London. A great venue although I though it would maybe be little daunting speaking in an amphitheatre setting to a large audience of family businesses! However, the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly and this settled my nerves quite quickly.
Throughout the day there was a total of fourteen speakers split across four sessions with time in-between for coffee and networking. It was a fascinating collection of speakers from companies such as Stevenson Brothers (Rocking Horse Makers), Rigby & Peller Corsetry (who hold a Royal Warrant) and Warburtons Family Bakers. I spoke in the afternoon session about how I first established the company, the changes it has been through including the introduction of my children and where we are hopefully moving to in the future. I really enjoyed myself!
The Red Ribbon Awards were announced around 4.30pm and the event was rounded off with drinks and another chance to chat with some fellow family business owners. It was a wonderful day highlighting common values such as loyalty, trust and integrity which run through family business. I will be booking my place for 2012!
Judy x
