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Paint Party

Posted on by tasmin abh

Paint Party, Gary Palmer

Background

 

Gary Palmer is an artist with a diverse and extensive background in the creative arts. With a degree in Fashion, Design, and Marketing from London, Gary has honed his skills in various disciplines, including pottery, cake decorating, and illustration. For years, he applied his talents in roles for others, but he always had a desire to create something uniquely his own. That dream materialised when he launched his own business, Paint Party.

 

Reflecting on his journey, Gary says, “I’ve always wanted to create something that was truly mine, something that could bring joy and creativity to others. Paint Party has allowed me to do just that.”

 

The Business Idea

 

The concept for Paint Party was inspired by a similar event Gary attended in London. Recognising its potential, he envisioned bringing this creative experience to Belfast. Through careful research, Gary discovered that there was a gap in the market for such a product, particularly one that was accessible to people of all ages and artistic abilities.

 

“I realised there was nothing quite like this available here, and I knew it could be something special,” Gary explains. “The idea just clicked, and everything – the logo, the branding – it all fell into place naturally.”

 

Paint Party offers customisable paint party packs suitable for groups ranging from two to eleven people. These events are designed to last two hours, during which participants create their own pieces of art using the materials provided in the pack. Paint Party events are versatile, catering to various occasions such as hen parties, baby showers, and more.

 

Gary’s passion for art is evident in every aspect of Paint Party. He has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, especially from individuals who initially doubted their artistic abilities. “I’ve had so many people come to me and say, ‘I can’t draw,’ but by the end of the session, they’ve created something they’re genuinely proud of,” Gary shares. “That’s the most rewarding part for me – seeing people discover a new passion and confidence in their creativity.”

 

The Role of Ards Business Hub

 

Gary’s journey with Paint Party was significantly supported by Ards Business Hub through the Go Succeed Programme. Spotted at the job fair in Newtownards Blair Maine Leisure Centre, Go Succeed caught Gary’s eye as a resource that could help him take his fledgling business to the next level.

 

Through this programme, Gary has received 10 hours of mentoring from Anne, one of Ards Business Hub’s experienced Business Advisors. This support was instrumental in helping Gary refine his business plan and develop a two-year projection, allowing him to better understand the potential growth of Paint Party.

 

“The support from Ards Business Hub has been invaluable,” Gary notes. “Anne helped me see the bigger picture and gave me the tools I needed to really plan for the future. I now feel ready to take Paint Party to new heights.”

 

With these foundations in place, Gary is now ready to progress to the next phase of the Go Succeed Programme, focusing on developing a comprehensive marketing plan to further expand his business.

 

Conclusion

 

Gary Palmer’s Paint Party is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of entrepreneurial support. Through his passion for art and the guidance provided by Ards Business Hub, Gary has been able to bring a unique and enjoyable experience to the people of Newtownards and beyond.

 

“Art has the power to transform something plain into something beautiful, and with Paint Party, you don’t need any particular skills to create something wonderful,” says Gary. “I’m excited to share this with others and see where this journey takes me.”

His story serves as an inspiration to others looking to turn their creative ideas into successful businesses.

 

For more information on Paint Party, visit www.paintparty.uk.

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MCP Medical

Posted on by tasmin abh

Meet One of Our Tenants: MCP Medical

Background and Founding

 

MCP Medical, based in Newtownards and operating out of Strangford Park, is a social enterprise that has rapidly become a cornerstone in the provision of medical response services for events across Northern Ireland. Founded by Michael Penney and Glen Robertson, both experienced medics, MCP Medical has swiftly garnered a reputation for excellence and community dedication.

 

Michael Penney, with two decades of experience as a paramedic in the ambulance service, has always been driven by a deep-seated desire to help others. Inspired by a poignant scene in the movie ‘Backdraft,’ Michael pursued his passion for emergency medical care from a young age, completing various first aid, training, and teaching qualifications. His extensive experience includes working with fast response cars and the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART).

 

Glen Robertson’s journey into the world of paramedicine began remarkably early. Volunteering with St John’s Ambulance as a cadet at just ten years old, Glen developed a profound expertise in first aid, honed further through competitions throughout the UK and Ireland.  His extensive experience in event first aid made him an invaluable partner for Michael.

 

The two met at a motorsport event in March 2022 and quickly discovered a shared vision for improving medical response services. This mutual passion led to the founding of MCP Medical, initially focusing on providing first response vehicles under the name 955 Safety. The overwhelming demand for their services soon necessitated the acquisition of an ambulance, marking the official inception of MCP Medical in July 2023.

 

Service Offerings and Growth

 

MCP Medical’s portfolio is impressive, initially catering to motorsport events such as Drifting events, Stormont classic car shows, Air Ambulance events, and Supercar Sunday. Their reputation for excellence has enabled them to expand into other areas, including karate board events, training Pure Gym staff, boxing associations, and the covering the upcoming Belfast Airport 5K Run. 

 

The core of MCP Medical’s success lies in their unwavering commitment to high standards and their dedication to helping people. Both Michael and Glen, alongside their team, maintain these values in every aspect of their work. Their team, described as a family, operates under minimal stress, united by a shared purpose.

 

Professionalism and courtesy are at the forefront of MCP Medical’s operations. They provide comprehensive training for their staff and students, both on-site at client locations and at their Strangford Park unit. This training ensures that their team is always prepared to deliver top-tier medical care.

 

MCP Medical is also one of the private ambulance services that bolster the front-line emergency services. They currently provide services to the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Health and Social Care Trusts across the country.

 

Innovation and Community Engagement

 

A testament to their innovative spirit and community focus is the acquisition of Northern Ireland’s first emergency response motorbike, the MCP Medical Community Response Unit. This ambulance-spec BMW R1200 RT-P, funded entirely by community donations, is equipped with essential medical equipment such as 12-lead cardiac monitors, airway management tools and bleeding control supplies. The motorbike will be available to emergency services and community events as a free service, continuing to operate through donations.

 

The community’s response to the fundraising efforts was overwhelmingly positive, enabling MCP Medical to secure the necessary funds in just 6-8 weeks. Michael Penney, exemplifying the ethos of the enterprise, will volunteer his time to respond to emergencies on this motorbike, further underscoring their commitment to service.

 

Looking Ahead

 

Reflecting on their journey, Glen Robertson expresses excitement about MCP Medical’s rapid growth and future prospects. Michael Penney echoes this sentiment, emphasising that his passion for the work makes every day fulfilling and enjoyable.

 

As MCP Medical continues to expand and innovate, their dedication to providing high-quality medical response services and their strong community ties will undoubtedly propel them to even greater heights. Their story is a compelling example of how expertise, passion, and community support can converge to create a truly impactful social enterprise.

Click here to find out more about MCP Medical.

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Trendy Threads

Posted on by tasmin abh

Meet one of our Tenants: Trendy Threads

By Tasmin Parkinson, Marketing Admin Executive

About the Company

Trendy Threads is a beloved business in Newtownards, known for its expert craftsmanship and outstanding customer service. Founded by Ann and Brenda, the business reflects their combined experience and dedication to the art of sewing and garment alterations.

Ann’s Story

Ann’s passion for sewing started early. By the age of seven, she could hand sew with remarkable skill. At 16, she began working in factories, where she quickly progressed to a role in quality control. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Ann’s expertise has been pivotal to the success of Trendy Threads.

Brenda’s Journey

Brenda, hailing from Dundonald, began working in a sewing factory at just 15. After marrying and moving to Newtownards, she worked on East Street before joining Blue Autumn in 1999/2000. It was there that she met Ann, sparking a partnership that would lead to the creation of Trendy Threads.

The Evolution of Trendy Threads

Trendy Threads began its journey in 2003 in Brenda’s garage. The business soon moved to the indoor market at ‘Old Brewery Court’ on Regent Street, adjacent to the bus station and Ards Visitor Information Centre. After four successful years there, Trendy Threads relocated to Ann Street, where they built a strong, loyal customer base over the next 12 years. In 2019, the business moved to its current location in Strangford Park.

Building a Loyal Customer Base

 

Ann and Brenda are deeply grateful for the loyal customer base they have cultivated over the past 20+ years. Their clientele spans across Ards and North Down, a testament to their exceptional service and community focus. Ann finds immense joy in meeting new customers and maintaining relationships with long-time patrons. The satisfaction of customers who see their beloved garments expertly altered and given new life is a source of pride for Ann. “It’s great because given today’s financial climate, our customers are able to get more wear out of their clothes and save money,” she says.

 

Commitment to Sustainability

 

Trendy Threads offers a wide range of services, including alterations, repairs, and custom tailoring. A core value of the business is sustainability. Ann emphasises the importance of recycling old clothes to reduce waste. “When people come to us and have alterations, they are being sustainable to the planet and reusing their clothes as opposed to going out and buying new clothes,” she notes.

 

Thriving in Strangford Park

 

Ann’s love for her work is matched by her appreciation for the community in Ards. Since Trendy Threads was established, she has formed strong connections with local residents and businesses. The move to Strangford Park has been particularly rewarding, thanks to the sense of community and the proximity to various amenities. “It’s a great location because there is so many wonderful businesses close by, such as cafes, restaurants, shops, etc.,” Ann highlights.

 

Brenda also cherishes the location of their unit at Strangford Park. Being a local herself, she finds it convenient to commute and enjoys meeting new people from the area. “Being a local, I know the Ards community well, and I love meeting new people from the area too.” Brenda comments. She appreciates the range of amenities available nearby, which benefits both Ann and Brenda, as well as their customers. “When our customers drop off their items, we often recommend the local café at Strangford Park or guide them to other nearby businesses if they’re looking for something specific.” Brenda adds. The convenience of their location at Strangford Park is a significant asset to their business.

 

Conclusion

 

Trendy Threads is a testament to dedication, skill, and community spirit. Ann and Brenda’s unwavering commitment to their craft and their customers has created a business that not only meets the needs of its clients but also contributes to the sustainability of the planet. In the heart of Strangford Park, Trendy Threads continues to thrive, offering exceptional service and fostering a strong sense of community.

Find out more about Trendy Threads here.

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Masos Wine Nights

Posted on by tasmin abh

David Mason's Entrepreneurial Journey with Ards Business Hub

David Mason embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in June 2023, venturing into the world of wine events and curated tastings. Reflecting on his journey so far, David notes, “My first event was in June 2023 and the business has generally got busier throughout the year. The months I expected to be quieter have been but not to the extent I anticipated.”

 

Motivated by a desire to secure his financial future after experiencing the unexpected closure of his previous workplace, David shares, “The closure was unanticipated and with no money for redundancy made me realize my position was vulnerable and over-reliant on others.” Drawing from his 30 years of experience in hospitality, David identified an opportunity to blend his expertise with his passion for wine, creating a unique offering for the market.

 

David’s services range from ticketed wine events to intimate private tastings, catering to both individuals and corporate clients seeking innovative networking experiences. “I offer wine events and curated private tastings. These events can range from intimate private tastings at home, to large corporate events that will provide a unique experience to guests,” he explains.

 

In David’s entrepreneurial journey, the support received from Ards Business Hub played a pivotal role. “Go Succeed has been a tremendous help,” David emphasises. “Just having someone outside your own circle look at your idea and affirming its potential, was truly an amazing experience for me.” He highlights the mentorship, training, and credibility gained through the platform, particularly during presentations to corporate clients.

 

Reflecting on his experience, David offers valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs. “Talk to Go Succeed as soon as possible,” he urges. “Take everything offered and have a vision of how you want the business to work for you.”

 

David cherishes the unique opportunities presented by operating in the Ards and North Down area. “The best thing about running a business in Ards & North Down is the scope,” he enthuses. “We have major towns and a new city in the borough, offering diverse locations and seasonal advantages.”

 

Despite his successes, David acknowledges ongoing challenges typical of any business. “Current challenges are the same as any business,” he admits. “Getting the word out there about the offering, cash flow from corporate clients, and trying to make each event feel unique and special for the guests.”

 

Looking to the future, David remains open to further support and networking opportunities. “I look forward to attending the seminars and networking events,” he affirms. “It is great to have a hub where I can meet other new business owners and learn from each other.”

David’s journey epitomises the spirit of entrepreneurship, fuelled by passion, resilience, and unwavering support from Ards Business Hub.

 

You can find out more about Masos Wine Nights here.

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Business Book Review: Confessions of an Entrepreneur by Chris Robson

Posted on by tasmin abh

Confessions of an Entrepreneur (Chris Robson)

Business Book Review by Anne Murphy, Business Advisor

This one is an oldie, I first read it back in 2011 when I’d started a business and I recently reread it in the haze of my new role as a Business Advisor at Ards Business Hub. I like the honest nature of it, the realism and the passion that bounces off the page.

 

I’ll admit that I don’t love business books that are how-to’s. I have many of them but I couldn’t read them cover to cover, they’re more like reference books. I enjoy an autobiography (sports, music, politics, business-there are business lessons in them all), I like the first person storytelling and the anecdotes so this is a good crossover of both and I did read it cover to cover!

 

The business leaders anecdotes really add weight to Chris Robsons observations and experiences and are interesting and reassuring that even these millionaires have had many of the challenges we have as start ups and as people with families and bills to pay.

 

The business stories still hold water more than ten years after I first read it but there are some things that would be big no no’s today. Like when hiring people “test the uncertainty by asking them to do something for free. See if it’s any good.” That might work for suppliers but in today’s candidate led market I don’t see it ending well when trying to hire staff.

 

There is lots of practical advice and stories of success and failure. Here are some takeaways from the chapter “In the red or in the black” where he talks openly about mistakes he made and lessons he learned about money!

  1. Economise from day one, assume you will run out of money
  2. Leverage the incredible free resources for entrepreneurs online (everything from accounting software to training seminars)
  3. Work on the key financial success metrics from day one
  4. Fix a sum that you are prepared to spend then add 30% contingency. Then aim to spend no more than half of that. Then you have a significant buffer.
  5. Focus on sales from day one. Try to get an early revenue

 

That’s good advice for any start up!

 

I will finish with one final quote that resonated with me “Turnover is vanity, margin is sanity.”

 

Good luck with your business venture, you’ve got this!

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How to Organise a Successful Meeting

Posted on by tasmin abh

How to Organise a Successful Meeting

By Helen Graham, Property & Conference Coordinator

Planning a productive meeting is essential for any small business owner. Whether it’s a team huddle, a client presentation, or a strategy session, the right environment and planning are key to ensuring a successful meeting. Here are our top tips to make your meetings engaging and efficient, along with how our team and conference facilities at Ards Business Hub can support you:

 

  1. Set Clear Objectives Before the meeting, define what you want to achieve. Clear objectives guide the agenda, keep discussions on track, and ensure everyone knows the meeting’s purpose. Share these objectives with attendees in advance so they come prepared.

How We Can Help: Our meeting rooms are equipped with presentation tools and audio-visual equipment to help you communicate your objectives clearly and effectively.

 

  1. Choose the Right Venue The venue sets the tone for your meeting. A professional, comfortable, and well-equipped space can enhance focus and participation.

How We Can Help: Our conference facilities in Newtownards offer modern, spacious rooms with flexible seating arrangements to suit any meeting type. From our Meeting Room to our Training & Seminar Room, we have the perfect venue for your needs.

 

  1. Plan the Agenda A well-structured agenda is the backbone of a successful meeting. Include time slots for each topic, allocate time for discussion, and stick to the schedule.

How We Can Help: We provide customisable room setups and time management tools to help you stay on track and make the most of your meeting time.

 

  1. Ensure Technical Support Nothing de-rails a meeting faster than technical difficulties. Ensure all equipment is working and have a backup plan in case of issues.

How We Can Help: Our facilities include state-of-the-art technology to  ensure your meeting runs smoothly. We have a selection of equipment on hand if needed. Just let us know and we will ensure the room has all that you need.

 

  1. Provide Refreshments Keeping participants refreshed can improve focus and productivity. Offer coffee, tea, water, and light snacks.

How We Can Help: We can facilitate any catering request you may have for your meeting. From scones with jam and butter for morning meetings to full hot and cold lunch platters, we are happy to work with you on your catering requirements to keep your team energised and ready to contribute.

 

  1. Foster Engagement Encourage participation from all attendees. Use interactive elements like Q&A sessions, brainstorming activities, or breakout groups.

How We Can Help: Our versatile spaces and breakout rooms are perfect for facilitating interactive sessions and small group discussions, fostering collaboration and engagement. Do you have guests who cannot attend in person? We have video conferencing equipment available; no one has to miss out!

 

  1. Follow Up After the meeting, send a summary of key points, decisions, and action items. This reinforces what was discussed and ensures everyone is on the same page moving forward.

How We Can Help: Our staff can assist with administrative support, so you can focus on your business goals.

 

 

By following these tips, you can ensure your meeting is both productive and effective. At Ards Business Hub, we provide the perfect environment and support to help you ensure a successful meeting. Contact us today to book your next meeting and experience the difference a professional venue can make!

View our meeting spaces here.

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5 Reasons You Should Become an Entrepreneur

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Five Reasons You Should Become An Entrepreneur

By Anne Murphy, Business Advisor

 
  1. Control your work-life balance

Let’s face it. You are so passionate and excited about your business you will likely put in way more hours than you intended. However, it’s YOUR CHOICE, YOUR RULES TO BREAK and YOUR REWARD to enjoy. Having flexibility is often enough to make it feel like you have the balance you want.

 

  1. Do it your way

No more half measures to meet unrealistic targets or time constraints. No more sloppy service or old fashioned techniques.  Running your own business means you get to decide on what you want your customer experience to be. But, don’t forget to listen to customer feedback and make sure it’s the experience they want.

 

  1. Learning never stops

Whether it’s planning a new product, developing a new process, bringing in your first employee or getting a new piece of software, you are always learning and developing in your company.  From informal desk research, information you pick up from networking, talking with a supplier or from customer feedback, to taking your skills to the next level with executive learning or gaining a qualification, you are always developing your skills and experience. It’s empowering!

 

  1. Financial Independence

Getting your business started may take a little time to fly but once off the ground you have the opportunity to set your own limits. Some business owners scale up, export or develop new products to grow their business.  Others plan from conception to sell their business to make their fortunes. 

 

  1. Personal fulfilment

When you start your own business, your skills, experience, drive and ambition all come together to make something amazing – a sense of achievement. Nothing is more fulfilling than feeling like you have created something that is valuable to others and enhances their lives in some way.

 

If you have a business idea and want to talk to our business advisors about getting it off the ground, get in touch with us today.

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JLJ Autorepair

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Meet one of the businesses at Ards Business Hub...

Meet Josh Johnston, local man from Newtownards and founder of JLJ Autorepair, one of the exciting businesses at Ards Business Hub.

 

Josh embarked on his journey into the motor trade when he was just 16. He recalls, ‘I have been interested in cars and motorbikes since I was a teenager. After completing my certifications in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, I started an apprenticeship in 2014 in a local garage, Fosters Garage. I left there in 2020 and worked for a few other repair garages where I continued to develop my skills and gain more experience. I decided to set up my own business, JLJ Autorepair, at Strangford Park in January 2024.’

 

JLJ Autorepair offers a wide variety of services to suit all your vehicle needs, from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Josh highlights that his ‘commitment to quality and customer satisfaction’ is at the centre of everything he does and drives his business forward.

 

Josh states that starting his business in Ards was an easy decision, ‘As soon as I heard the unit in Strangford Park was available, I jumped at the opportunity. Being from Newtownards myself, I couldn’t have asked for a better location to set up my business, and it’s an added bonus that my unit is conveniently placed near the MOT Centre.’

 

Josh describes his experience as an entrepreneur, ‘My favourite thing about owning a business has probably been the flexibility and independence that comes from being my own boss. I get to decide what hours I work and can manage my time better. Plus, most of the customers I get are from Newtownards. It has been great getting to know and make connections with local people.’

 

Josh shares his experience since moving into his unit at Strangford Park, ‘I have really enjoyed setting up my business here at Ards Business Hub. There is a real sense of community at Strangford Park, the tenants here have been very welcoming and friendly. The team at Ards Business Hub have been great. They were so helpful during the process of moving into my unit and continue to offer support for my business.’

 

Based on his own experience, Josh shares his advice to anyone thinking of starting a business, ‘If I could give advice to someone thinking of starting a business, I would say don’t be afraid to take the leap and get started. Embrace the challenges and seize every opportunity that comes your way. Having my own business has been great, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for JLJ Autorepair. I am already expanding my team and have a job opportunity available for anyone thinking of working in the motor trade.’

 

Helen Graham, our Property and Conference Coordinator, oversaw Josh’s move into his unit in January. Helen says, ‘Josh and his business, JLJ Autorepair, have been a great asset to Strangford Park. Josh is a lovely guy and it’s wonderful to see how successful his business has been already. I can’t wait to see how his business continues to grow over time.’

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Meet Our Property & Conference Coordinator

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Meet Our Property & Conference Coordinator

New team member at Ards Business Hub supports local businesses

 

Ards Business Hub has appointed a new Property and Conference Co-ordinator to support its mission to develop the local economy.

 

Helen Graham, who is originally from Montreal but now a long-time resident of Donaghadee, brings a wealth of knowledge to the role.

 

She will be looking after tenants at the three sites – Sketrick House, Strangford Park and Nendrum Park – as well as the meeting rooms and conference facilities.

 

As a social enterprise, Ards Business Hub aims to deliver real social results and impact to the community.

 

Nichola Lockhart, CEO of Ards Business Hub, said that Helen will be a real asset to the organisation and to the Ards business community.

 

“Helen has tremendous energy and is such a people person; she really cares about helping others. At Ards Business Hub we feel we have a great offering – superb commercial and industrial units, spec office space and free on-site parking but it’s also our team that make such a tremendous difference to our clients,” Nichola said.

 

Helen is looking forward to working with the diverse and exciting range of businesses that make Ards Business Hub their home.

 

“I love working with people and want to make sure that I’m adding value to everything I offer the local business community. Ards Business Hub is so much more than just the fabulous offices and commercial units. It’s the wealth of free business advice and support that makes it truly special,” she said.

 

With years of experience in sales and customer service, including locally with Green Man Packaging in Bangor, she also has first-hand knowledge of running her own computer gaming business, Good Game, from 2019-2022 in the centre of Newtownards.

 

“I understand what it’s like for entrepreneurs and business owners who are having to do all the work and make all the decisions themselves. The pressure is enormous but having a community of supportive professionals and being surrounded by other like-minded businesses can make all the difference,” she said.

 

Having moved from Canada in 2003, Northern Ireland is now firmly home.

 

“I love living here. And while I have just joined the team at Ards, I feel immediately like one of the family,” she said.

 

In her spare time, Helen sells craft items she makes herself on Etsy and is studying Business Management at the Open University.

 

Read more about our latest news here.

Pictured above (left to right): Nichola Lockhart, CEO, and Helen Graham, Property and Conference Coordinator. 

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Available Office Space – B2

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Available Office Space

Are you a small business owner in need of an office space to start expanding your business?

 

Strangford Park offers a range of industrial units, with sizes ranging from 330 to 1600 square feet, and office spaces ranging from 60 to 450 square feet, catering to the needs of start-up and SME businesses across various sectors.

 

New unit available at Strangford Park;

 

Unit number: B2
Size: 1071 sq ft
Rent (Ex VAT): £452.50

 

Would you like to find out more about our available unit? Please complete our Property Enquiry Form, and someone from our team will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

View Brochure

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Contact Us

Ards Business Hub
Sketrick House
16 Jubilee Road
Newtownards
Co. Down
BT23 4YH

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