As you know I am passionate about empowering women to reach their full potential be it in their business life, family life or their personal life and as I have three daughters and a daughter-in-law I will never give up the fight for equality for women in both education and employment. Equality is not a luxury it is a right that we as women deserve.
We can be our own worst enemy allowing those internal feelings of self doubt paralyse us and stop us moving forward. We often lack confidence but as Shirley Conran says "Self confidence is the most important thing and comes from identifying your goals, knowing your limits and roping in all the help you can get". That's where women's associations and networking events are so important for women to attend so we can share ideas, discuss our problems, support each other and have fun.
International Women's Day is on March 8th and this year's theme is Pledge for Parity. So how do we want to celebrate International Women's Day? We can all pledge to take a concrete step to help achieve gender parity more quickly and that is both women and men. We can try and help women and girls to achieve their ambitions, call for gender-balanced leadership and help them to realise the limitless potential they offer in all areas of life. It is estimated that the gender gap will not close entirely until 2133 as there is already a slowdown in the pace of progress we are making. We cannot and will not wait that long so we must continue to take action.
Women in Business Southampton are holding a conference 'She Leads' on Saturday March 5th at the University of Southampton from 10am until 5-30pm.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting will be held at the Cloud Hotel on Wednesday 16th March at 6-30pm the speaker is Professor Jo Adams and her talk is about her research into Arthritis health. I look forward to seeing you.
Remember if your 'dreams' don't scare you they are too small!
Life Begins At The End Of Your Comfort Zone' Neale Donald Walsch
Get out of your comfort zone and fulfil your dreams
Avril
Monday, 29 February 2016
Tuesday, 9 February 2016
BBC Radio Solent Interview - Avril Owton MBE
In this BBC Radio Solent interview, Avril discusses 40 years at the Cloud Hotel and her experiences as one of the famous Tiller Girls.
Friday, 29 January 2016
Celebrating 40 Years in Business at The Cloud Hotel
This lovely article from the Southampton Echo was written following our 40th Year at The Cloud Hotel celebrations.
“I DIDN’T know the difference between a chorus line and a bottom line.”
“I DIDN’T know the difference between a chorus line and a bottom line.”
Those are the words of Tiller girl turned Hampshire hotelier Avril Owton who celebrated 40 years in business this week.
New Forest District Council’s leader, Cllr Barry Rickman; chairman, Cllr Alison Hoare; chief executive, Bob Jackson; and the employment and tourism manager, Anthony Climpson, were among guests at special event to celebrate Avril’s four decades at the Cloud Hotel, Brockenhurst.
Avril’s husband Tom took over the hotel from his parents when they retired in the 1970s.
She learned the trade from the bottom up, starting with the washing up with a quick promotion to room maid and then helped her husband, who was the chef, with the cooking as well as caring for her four children.
In 1991, disaster struck: her husband died of a heart attack. “I soon found out there was no life insurance – he didn’t believe in it – and that I was stuck with a hotel we couldn’t sell because of the recession at the time.”
However, Avril, inspired by a magazine article which said “you are the steering wheel of your life” and decided she would take on the hotel.
“I always say I didn’t know the difference between a chorus line and a bottom line,” she says, recalling the days when she was a member of the celebrated Tiller Girls dancing troupe, famous for their high-kicking routine, performing at the London Palladium alongside the like of Judy Garland, Cilla Black and Bruce Forsyth.
Avril had to borrow heavily from the bank to update the premises: “It was a bit like Fawlty Towers in its décor – my late husband didn’t believe in en suite bathrooms or TVs in the rooms although I knew this was what people would want,” she says.
The investment paid off – the Cloud’s profits increased by 800 per cent and Avril became Hampshire Businesswoman of the Year in 1995.
“I attended business seminars and got proper training,” and she was eventually asked to join the prestigious Everywoman network.
She also founded the Wessex Women’s Network and in 2008 was awarded the MBE.
Now in her 70s and still running the hotel and her network.
“When I started our busiest time was the months of July and August, when people would come for their main summer holiday,” she says. “Now we’re a top destination for short breaks and the main season extends from March to October, you can drive here from London, or come on the train and be here in time for a walk before lunch,” she says.
Cllr Alison Hoare said at the event, “Avril is the most inspiring woman I have ever met. She is a woman who when the worst thing possible happened, rolled up her sleeves and turned the Cloud into the wonderful, award winning hotel it is today. She has raised incredible amounts of money for MacMillan Cancer charity and even found the time to write a book in 2007, ‘Delighting Your Customers’. Avril epitomises the values of the New Forest and the special unique qualities of the people who live here, success through hard work, but finding the time and commitment to help and inspire others.”
Anthony Climpson has known Avril for thirty of her forty years at the hotel and describes her as, “the inspirational hotel proprietor who is one of the New Forest’s greatest advocates.”
Saturday, 14 November 2015
Equality for Women!
I am a feminist. A feminist is someone who believes in the equality of women in all areas of life, political, economic, cultural, personal and social rights. Equality is not a luxury it is a right for women the world over and having watched the programme recently on the Power of Women and Hilary Clinton's speech in Bejing we still have a long way to go before we achieve equality.
As a business woman myself I have to be twice as good and twice as strong as men to get the respect in business a man would receive. I am then accused of being a hard woman but you have to become tough in business to run a successful and profitable business even in todays world of so called equality.
I have 3 daughters who are all intelligent hard working and excellent at their jobs but they too experience unfairness especially when it comes to equal pay! I will continue to fight for equality for the future of my daughters and granddaughters as this is the right of all women.
I founded the Wessex Women's Network in 2003 for women in the New Forest and surrounding areas to get together once a month to share their experiences, have fun and network and build their confidence. Thanks to Jan Hoy who now books the speakers the Network is still thriving and we have enjoyed many interesting and entertaining speakers this year. One that really stands out is Maureen Rose who was the dressmaker to the Queen, her talk was so interesting and amusing we could have listened to her all evening but we had to leave time to enjoy a 2 course dinner with wine giving the ladies time to network whilst enjoying their coffee. Our next event is our Christmas dinner on December 5th when the ladies can bring their husband, partner or a friend to relax and enjoy the evening. We hold a raffle every year and this year proceeds will go to Wessex Heartbeat. There are still places left so if you would like to come along and enjoy a delicious Christmas Dinner with likeminded women call reception on 01590 622165.
I will be attending the NatWest Everywoman awards at the Dorchester Hotel in London on Dec 2nd. This is one of my favourite events of the year when we recognise women of all ages who have achieved and often overcome adversity to do so. I have been a judge for these awards for 7 years but this year missed the judging day due to illness, I was gutted.
I attended the Women of Our Time luncheon at the Chewton Glen on Friday November 6th. This event is held annually in aid of Oakhaven Hospice in Lymington. Sally Armstrong stepped in at the last minute to be the speaker as Lindy Woodhead who had been booked had been taken ill. Sally spoke about her time as a stewardess on Concorde, she had never done a presentation before and it was interesting, amusing and fascinating. Well done Sally. I have just started reading her book 'Vintage Champagne on the Edge of Space' about her life on Concorde, it's well worth a read I'm really enjoying it.
Finally I was delighted and honoured to be the recipient of this year's Woman of Our Time award. It was a complete surprise and quite unexpected I will cherish the beautiful glass bowl I received and I will continue to support Oakhaven Hospice and the wonderful work they all do to look after the patients.
It will soon be Christmas [where has this year gone?] and a New Year to look forward to.
'SMILE YOUR WAY THROUGH THIS WORLD EVEN IF YOU HAVE NOTHING TO SMILE ABOUT, YOU WILL IMPACT EVERY PERSON YOU SMILED AT IN SOME UNKNOWN WAY AND THAT MY FRIEND IS SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT'
Lisa Sowards
Take care
Avril
Avril
As a business woman myself I have to be twice as good and twice as strong as men to get the respect in business a man would receive. I am then accused of being a hard woman but you have to become tough in business to run a successful and profitable business even in todays world of so called equality.
I have 3 daughters who are all intelligent hard working and excellent at their jobs but they too experience unfairness especially when it comes to equal pay! I will continue to fight for equality for the future of my daughters and granddaughters as this is the right of all women.
I founded the Wessex Women's Network in 2003 for women in the New Forest and surrounding areas to get together once a month to share their experiences, have fun and network and build their confidence. Thanks to Jan Hoy who now books the speakers the Network is still thriving and we have enjoyed many interesting and entertaining speakers this year. One that really stands out is Maureen Rose who was the dressmaker to the Queen, her talk was so interesting and amusing we could have listened to her all evening but we had to leave time to enjoy a 2 course dinner with wine giving the ladies time to network whilst enjoying their coffee. Our next event is our Christmas dinner on December 5th when the ladies can bring their husband, partner or a friend to relax and enjoy the evening. We hold a raffle every year and this year proceeds will go to Wessex Heartbeat. There are still places left so if you would like to come along and enjoy a delicious Christmas Dinner with likeminded women call reception on 01590 622165.
I will be attending the NatWest Everywoman awards at the Dorchester Hotel in London on Dec 2nd. This is one of my favourite events of the year when we recognise women of all ages who have achieved and often overcome adversity to do so. I have been a judge for these awards for 7 years but this year missed the judging day due to illness, I was gutted.
I attended the Women of Our Time luncheon at the Chewton Glen on Friday November 6th. This event is held annually in aid of Oakhaven Hospice in Lymington. Sally Armstrong stepped in at the last minute to be the speaker as Lindy Woodhead who had been booked had been taken ill. Sally spoke about her time as a stewardess on Concorde, she had never done a presentation before and it was interesting, amusing and fascinating. Well done Sally. I have just started reading her book 'Vintage Champagne on the Edge of Space' about her life on Concorde, it's well worth a read I'm really enjoying it.
Finally I was delighted and honoured to be the recipient of this year's Woman of Our Time award. It was a complete surprise and quite unexpected I will cherish the beautiful glass bowl I received and I will continue to support Oakhaven Hospice and the wonderful work they all do to look after the patients.
It will soon be Christmas [where has this year gone?] and a New Year to look forward to.
'SMILE YOUR WAY THROUGH THIS WORLD EVEN IF YOU HAVE NOTHING TO SMILE ABOUT, YOU WILL IMPACT EVERY PERSON YOU SMILED AT IN SOME UNKNOWN WAY AND THAT MY FRIEND IS SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT'
Lisa Sowards
Take care
Avril
Avril
Friday, 27 February 2015
International Women's Day 'Make it Happen'
'Make it Happen' is the theme of International Women's Day which is on Sunday 8th March. All around the world International Women's Day represents an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while calling for greater equality. I believe we still have a long way to go before we achieve equality but we must never give up and must keep fighting otherwise we will never make it happen for ourselves, our daughters, granddaughters and future generations.
At our last meeting on Thursday 26th February Sara Scott spoke to us about the history of the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. It was not only a very entertaining talk but also very interesting and everyone thoroughly enjoyed it.
The Wessex Women's Network meets every month and I have watched many of the members grow in confidence and succeed during the past ten years since I founded it. We were able to congratulate two of our members at this meeting for their recent achievements. Jane Pitt Pitts was one of the original members of the Wessex Women's Network and I have watched her develop her business Confusion Glass and grow in confidence during this time. She has just been voted a trustee of the Royal Lymington Yacht Club, quite an achievement as she's the first woman to hold this position. Congratulations Jane, we are all very proud of you. Natasha Jones has just been voted Tesco Community Mum of the year 2015 for her baby Resuscitation Training that she founded after nearly losing her baby. Another great achievement and something to be so proud of.
We welcome women of all ages and all walks of life to our meetings, it is not necessary to have a business because we are a support group for all women so as well as networking we have fun.
The next meeting is on Tuesday March 24th when our speaker is Miriam King She will be telling us how to make the most of our skin as we mature! Very important because to feel confident you need to feel good about yourself.
Don't forget to celebrate International Women's Day on Sunday March 8th and to wear purple. Purple symbolises justice and dignity- two values strongly associated with women's equality.
'Self confidence is the most important thing, and this comes from identifying your goals, knowing your limits and roping in all the help you can get' Shirley Conran author of Superwoman
Be confident!
Avril
At our last meeting on Thursday 26th February Sara Scott spoke to us about the history of the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. It was not only a very entertaining talk but also very interesting and everyone thoroughly enjoyed it.
The Wessex Women's Network meets every month and I have watched many of the members grow in confidence and succeed during the past ten years since I founded it. We were able to congratulate two of our members at this meeting for their recent achievements. Jane Pitt Pitts was one of the original members of the Wessex Women's Network and I have watched her develop her business Confusion Glass and grow in confidence during this time. She has just been voted a trustee of the Royal Lymington Yacht Club, quite an achievement as she's the first woman to hold this position. Congratulations Jane, we are all very proud of you. Natasha Jones has just been voted Tesco Community Mum of the year 2015 for her baby Resuscitation Training that she founded after nearly losing her baby. Another great achievement and something to be so proud of.
We welcome women of all ages and all walks of life to our meetings, it is not necessary to have a business because we are a support group for all women so as well as networking we have fun.
The next meeting is on Tuesday March 24th when our speaker is Miriam King She will be telling us how to make the most of our skin as we mature! Very important because to feel confident you need to feel good about yourself.
Don't forget to celebrate International Women's Day on Sunday March 8th and to wear purple. Purple symbolises justice and dignity- two values strongly associated with women's equality.
'Self confidence is the most important thing, and this comes from identifying your goals, knowing your limits and roping in all the help you can get' Shirley Conran author of Superwoman
Be confident!
Avril
Sunday, 10 August 2014
Inspirational Women
I feel very guilty that I have not written a blog for the Wessex Women for so long! We have had some very busy events with some entertaining and inspirational speakers thanks to Jan Hoy and we have welcomed many new members. On August 5th we decided to have a meeting dedicated to the members who were given the opportunity to promote their business and it is interesting to hear the variety of businesses that our members run. Some of our members are retired but they are able to pass on their experiences as well as be interested in the ladies stories. We always have alot of fun and as you can imagine it's not always business that is discussed! After the presentations we enjoyed a two course dinner with wine and lots of chat.
As probably most of you who know me, know how passionate I am about encouraging women to fulfil their dreams and reach their full potential. I still attend conferences and seminars to hear inspirational women speakers and continue to develop my own skills as I feel I still have alot to learn. I attended the Women 1st conference in June and was blown away by some of the speakers who had achieved so much often with quite a struggle. An example of how a women can achieve against all the odds is Jacqueline Gold of Ann Summers. I had the privilege of speaking to her and not only is she an inspirational woman but also a lovely lady. If you haven't read her autobiography
'A Woman's Courage' can I suggest that you do. Courage is something we all need if we want to succeed.
Women 1st supports women in hospitality, travel, leisure and tourism and I am delighted that I have been shortlisted for the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Women 1st Shine Awards 2014 especially as I didn't even know I had been nominated! The prestigious award ceremony and dinner will be held on September 16th at the London Marriott Hotel and I am really looking forward to an enjoyable evening.
I am also a great supporter of Everywoman Ltd and am looking forward to judging the NatWest everywoman awards in October these awards recognise women from all walks of life and all of ages who have succeeded in business and have often overcome amazing adversity.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on Wednesday September 10th 6-30 for 7pm. Speaker is Marion Emery who is a professional speaker I look forward to seeing you.
Finally don't forget to put Friday 26th September in your diary and come and support the World's Biggest Coffee Morning to be held at the Cloud Hotel from 10-30 til 11-45pm all proceed go to Macmillan Cancer Support.
Take care and burn brightly but don't burn out!
Avril
As probably most of you who know me, know how passionate I am about encouraging women to fulfil their dreams and reach their full potential. I still attend conferences and seminars to hear inspirational women speakers and continue to develop my own skills as I feel I still have alot to learn. I attended the Women 1st conference in June and was blown away by some of the speakers who had achieved so much often with quite a struggle. An example of how a women can achieve against all the odds is Jacqueline Gold of Ann Summers. I had the privilege of speaking to her and not only is she an inspirational woman but also a lovely lady. If you haven't read her autobiography
'A Woman's Courage' can I suggest that you do. Courage is something we all need if we want to succeed.
Women 1st supports women in hospitality, travel, leisure and tourism and I am delighted that I have been shortlisted for the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Women 1st Shine Awards 2014 especially as I didn't even know I had been nominated! The prestigious award ceremony and dinner will be held on September 16th at the London Marriott Hotel and I am really looking forward to an enjoyable evening.
I am also a great supporter of Everywoman Ltd and am looking forward to judging the NatWest everywoman awards in October these awards recognise women from all walks of life and all of ages who have succeeded in business and have often overcome amazing adversity.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on Wednesday September 10th 6-30 for 7pm. Speaker is Marion Emery who is a professional speaker I look forward to seeing you.
Finally don't forget to put Friday 26th September in your diary and come and support the World's Biggest Coffee Morning to be held at the Cloud Hotel from 10-30 til 11-45pm all proceed go to Macmillan Cancer Support.
Take care and burn brightly but don't burn out!
Avril
Monday, 17 February 2014
Rain, rain go away and don't come back for many a day. I'm sure you are all fed up with the weather and I am really fed up with the reporting of the media who dramatise everything and affect businesses. My sympathy goes out to all those people whose homes and businesses have been flooded [my home was flooded 12 years ago so I know what it's like] but the whole of the South of England is not suffering from the floods so I wish they would be more specific. The New Forest is a large area and Brockenhurst is not flooded and the roads surrounding Brockenhurst are clear for people to visit. Not only is this negative reporting affecting businesses but it is also affecting people's jobs.
On a positive note the Wessex Women's Network met on February 13th to listen to Trevor Sapey give us an interesting and amusing talk on the Mary Rose. It was a very enjoyable evening and he certainly encouraged me to visit the Mary Rose Museum.
On Tuesday 11th February I went to the Mayfair Hotel in London to attend the Women 1st Top 100 Club reception and heard Carolyn McCall OBE Chief Executive of easy jet give an inspirational and thought provoking talk on her career and life as a working Mother of three. She took over easy-jet in 2010 and has transformed it into a successful airline. I always meet inspirational women at these events who motivate me and often give me new ideas for my business.
The next Wessex Women's Network event is on March 20th when author Shelby Locke will be giving a talk entitled 'What If' I look forward to welcoming you to the meeting and hopefully we will be experiencing some better weather by then.
Finally
"Giving people a little more than they expect is a good way to get back a lot more than you'd expect"
Robert Half
Til next time
Avril
On a positive note the Wessex Women's Network met on February 13th to listen to Trevor Sapey give us an interesting and amusing talk on the Mary Rose. It was a very enjoyable evening and he certainly encouraged me to visit the Mary Rose Museum.
On Tuesday 11th February I went to the Mayfair Hotel in London to attend the Women 1st Top 100 Club reception and heard Carolyn McCall OBE Chief Executive of easy jet give an inspirational and thought provoking talk on her career and life as a working Mother of three. She took over easy-jet in 2010 and has transformed it into a successful airline. I always meet inspirational women at these events who motivate me and often give me new ideas for my business.
The next Wessex Women's Network event is on March 20th when author Shelby Locke will be giving a talk entitled 'What If' I look forward to welcoming you to the meeting and hopefully we will be experiencing some better weather by then.
Finally
"Giving people a little more than they expect is a good way to get back a lot more than you'd expect"
Robert Half
Til next time
Avril
Saturday, 25 January 2014
A New Year
The first meeting of the year was held on Wednesday 22nd January when we heard Jane Walker MBE tell us her story as to how she founded the The Philippine Community Fund. What an amazing woman she is, we were all in awe of her and felt very humble. Her incredible life story of her many challenges in helping the people of the Philippines to have a better life is to be published in Spring 2014, look out for 'The Angel of the Dump.' For more details of her work and her charity go to www.p-c-f.org
Our next meeting will be on Thursday 13th February. Trevor Sapey will be giving a very interesting talk on the Mary Rose. Trevor is the visitors service manager of the Mary Rose Museum and I understand from people who have heard his talk it is worth coming to hear.
The following day is Valentine's day and for those romantics amongst you why not spoil your loved one to a candlelit dinner in the Encore Restaurant. Our 4 course dinner is served between 7pm and 9pm £39-50 to include a glass of bubbly and a table present. To book call 01590 622165
I'm sure like me you wish this rain would stop, I'm waiting for the animals to go by two by two! Spring is on the way and we must stay positive!
Surround yourself with people that make you laugh, life is too short to be anything but happy. Laughter is the the fastest way to the heart.
Hope to see you soon
Avril
Our next meeting will be on Thursday 13th February. Trevor Sapey will be giving a very interesting talk on the Mary Rose. Trevor is the visitors service manager of the Mary Rose Museum and I understand from people who have heard his talk it is worth coming to hear.
The following day is Valentine's day and for those romantics amongst you why not spoil your loved one to a candlelit dinner in the Encore Restaurant. Our 4 course dinner is served between 7pm and 9pm £39-50 to include a glass of bubbly and a table present. To book call 01590 622165
I'm sure like me you wish this rain would stop, I'm waiting for the animals to go by two by two! Spring is on the way and we must stay positive!
Surround yourself with people that make you laugh, life is too short to be anything but happy. Laughter is the the fastest way to the heart.
Hope to see you soon
Avril
Saturday, 21 December 2013
Happy Christmas
This has been a busy year for the Wessex Women's Network and thanks to Jan Hoy we have listened to a variety of very interesting speakers.
We raised £1160-00 at the Christmas dinner in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support and appreciated the generous raffle prizes donated by our suppliers that helped to boost the funds.
On December 4th I attended the NatWest everywoman awards and as always it was an emotional and inspirational event. This was my 6th year as one of the judges for this event and every year the entries inspire and motivate me. There are some amazing women out there who have overcome adversity to develop some very successful businesses.
Our next meeting is on January 22nd at 6-30 --7pm. I have decided as from January we will enjoy a 2 course dinner at £20-00 to include a glass of wine, a speaker and coffee. To try to please everyone we will have a main course and dessert one month and a starter and main course another month so we will alternate it.
I wish you all a very happy Christmas and a New Year filled with good health, happiness and success in whatever you do.
In the New Year 'Do something every day that will bring you to a better and brighter tomorrow'.
Jennifer Gayle
Hope to see you next year
Avril
We raised £1160-00 at the Christmas dinner in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support and appreciated the generous raffle prizes donated by our suppliers that helped to boost the funds.
On December 4th I attended the NatWest everywoman awards and as always it was an emotional and inspirational event. This was my 6th year as one of the judges for this event and every year the entries inspire and motivate me. There are some amazing women out there who have overcome adversity to develop some very successful businesses.
Our next meeting is on January 22nd at 6-30 --7pm. I have decided as from January we will enjoy a 2 course dinner at £20-00 to include a glass of wine, a speaker and coffee. To try to please everyone we will have a main course and dessert one month and a starter and main course another month so we will alternate it.
I wish you all a very happy Christmas and a New Year filled with good health, happiness and success in whatever you do.
In the New Year 'Do something every day that will bring you to a better and brighter tomorrow'.
Jennifer Gayle
Hope to see you next year
Avril
Saturday, 23 November 2013
Ten Year Celebration
I founded the Wessex Women's Network ten years ago! Those ten years have just flown by and to celebrate I held a dinner on November 19th at the Cloud Hotel. We were entertained by Liam White who sang a selection of Michael Buble, Ray Charles and Frank Sinatra songs. This young man has an enormous talent and I look forward to seeing his career develop, I think we will hear alot more of him in the future.
On Wednesday 27th November I will be taking some of my staff to the Felbridge Spa Hotel to attend the Business South Excellence Awards as the Cloud Hotel is a finalist in the small hotel of the year category. We are up against some stiff competition but just getting to the final is an achievement for my loyal and hardworking staff. Fingers crossed.
Christmas is just around the corner and the Christmas decorations go up at the Cloud Hotel on December 1st. Mike Dacombe of Inspiration in New Milton is responsible for the Christmas decorations and every year they are stunning. There are still a few places left in our Encore Restaurant on certain days for our pre-Christmas lunches so if you haven't booked it's still not too late.
I attended the Light up a Life service at Winchester Cathedral yesterday for Naomi House and Jack's Place Children's Hospice. It was a very humbling experience and the courage shown by the parents of these children and the care given to them by the staff of Naomi House makes you realise just how lucky you are and teaches you to stop complaining about such trivial things that happen in one's life.
On Friday December 13th we are holding a Christmas Dinner and all proceeds are donated to Macmillan Cancer Support. This is the one event of the year that you can bring your husband, partner or friend to the Wessex Women's event. The Highcliffe Junior Choir will once again start the evening with Christmas carols followed by a three course traditional Christmas dinner and wine. I look forward to welcoming you to this event and hope to raise as much money as possible for this worth while charity.
Christmas is a very hectic time especially for working women but take care and enjoy it.
BURN BRIGHTLY BUT DON'T BURN OUT!
Avril
On Wednesday 27th November I will be taking some of my staff to the Felbridge Spa Hotel to attend the Business South Excellence Awards as the Cloud Hotel is a finalist in the small hotel of the year category. We are up against some stiff competition but just getting to the final is an achievement for my loyal and hardworking staff. Fingers crossed.
Christmas is just around the corner and the Christmas decorations go up at the Cloud Hotel on December 1st. Mike Dacombe of Inspiration in New Milton is responsible for the Christmas decorations and every year they are stunning. There are still a few places left in our Encore Restaurant on certain days for our pre-Christmas lunches so if you haven't booked it's still not too late.
I attended the Light up a Life service at Winchester Cathedral yesterday for Naomi House and Jack's Place Children's Hospice. It was a very humbling experience and the courage shown by the parents of these children and the care given to them by the staff of Naomi House makes you realise just how lucky you are and teaches you to stop complaining about such trivial things that happen in one's life.
On Friday December 13th we are holding a Christmas Dinner and all proceeds are donated to Macmillan Cancer Support. This is the one event of the year that you can bring your husband, partner or friend to the Wessex Women's event. The Highcliffe Junior Choir will once again start the evening with Christmas carols followed by a three course traditional Christmas dinner and wine. I look forward to welcoming you to this event and hope to raise as much money as possible for this worth while charity.
Christmas is a very hectic time especially for working women but take care and enjoy it.
BURN BRIGHTLY BUT DON'T BURN OUT!
Avril
Friday, 11 October 2013
Catch Up
It's time to catch up with you all as I haven't written a blog since July! Time just seems to fly by these days and before we know it Christmas will be here and another year gone! We have had some entertaining and interesting speakers at the meetings this year thanks to Jan Hoy who seems to find a variety of speakers all with a different story to tell.
The Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning held at the Cloud Hotel raised £500-00 for Macmillan Cancer Support and we will be holding our annual Christmas Dinner on December 13th at the Cloud Hotel for all members and their husbands, partners or friends. All proceeds are donated to Macmillan Cancer Support so book early to avoid disappointment as places are limited. Highcliffe Junior Choir will start the evening with Christmas carols and a three course Christmas Dinner will follow. The cost is £30-00 to include a glass of wine and coffee and mince pies.
It was 10 years ago I founded Wessex Women's Network and during that time I have met some lovely women, watched some members grow their businesses and develop their confidence. To celebrate our 10th anniversary there will be a dinner on November 19th with entertainment. I look forward to seeing you there.
I was in London yesterday judging the NatWest everywoman annual awards for successful businesswomen. This is my 6th year judging these awards and I am always amazed and inspired by what some of these women have achieved even as young as 25. The award ceremony will take place at the Dorchester Hotel in London on December 4th and tickets for this prestigious event are available at www.everywoman.com If you would like to meet some really inspirational women this is the event to attend.
The Cloud Hotel is the perfect place to meet up with friends or business colleagues and relax in one of our cosy lounges or the conservatory and enjoy morning coffee [latte, cappuccino, espresso or filter coffee] or afternoon tea. Our clotted cream teas are delicious and we now serve homemade strawberry jam with our homemade scones and clotted cream.
We always have alot of fun at the Wessex Women's meetings and it is important to surround yourselves with people who make you laugh as life is too short to be anything but happy.
Avril
The Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning held at the Cloud Hotel raised £500-00 for Macmillan Cancer Support and we will be holding our annual Christmas Dinner on December 13th at the Cloud Hotel for all members and their husbands, partners or friends. All proceeds are donated to Macmillan Cancer Support so book early to avoid disappointment as places are limited. Highcliffe Junior Choir will start the evening with Christmas carols and a three course Christmas Dinner will follow. The cost is £30-00 to include a glass of wine and coffee and mince pies.
It was 10 years ago I founded Wessex Women's Network and during that time I have met some lovely women, watched some members grow their businesses and develop their confidence. To celebrate our 10th anniversary there will be a dinner on November 19th with entertainment. I look forward to seeing you there.
I was in London yesterday judging the NatWest everywoman annual awards for successful businesswomen. This is my 6th year judging these awards and I am always amazed and inspired by what some of these women have achieved even as young as 25. The award ceremony will take place at the Dorchester Hotel in London on December 4th and tickets for this prestigious event are available at www.everywoman.com If you would like to meet some really inspirational women this is the event to attend.
The Cloud Hotel is the perfect place to meet up with friends or business colleagues and relax in one of our cosy lounges or the conservatory and enjoy morning coffee [latte, cappuccino, espresso or filter coffee] or afternoon tea. Our clotted cream teas are delicious and we now serve homemade strawberry jam with our homemade scones and clotted cream.
We always have alot of fun at the Wessex Women's meetings and it is important to surround yourselves with people who make you laugh as life is too short to be anything but happy.
Avril
Tuesday, 23 July 2013
Women 1st!
It will soon be August and it's been a while since I wrote a Blog for Wessex Women's Network. I'm delighted to report that the Cloud Hotel has been very busy which means I have been very busy too! I hope you have all been able to enjoy this beautiful weather and long may it continue before winter sets in again!
I'm sure we all send our congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their son. As many of us are Mothers and Grandmothers we all know how it feels to give birth to our first child and that wonderful feeling when the baby is first put in your arms and you realise you are a Mother!
In June I attended the Women 1st Conference at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square. Women 1st was launched in 2009 to develop women into leadership roles in hospitality, passenger transport, travel and tourism. As always at these conferences there were some inspirational women speakers telling their stories of how they have succeeded in their careers. I particularly enjoyed listening to Liz Bingham , Managing Partner, People UK and Ireland, Ernst and Young. Liz is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusiveness and has been determined to create an environment where people from all backgrounds can succeed and flourish. I also enjoyed listening to Susan Gambardella, Vice President,Global Account Team, Coca-Cola Refreshments who had flown in from the USA for the conference. Both of these women were an inspiration and their stories encouraged everyone to realise how great their potential is if they take opportunities and have the right attitude in life. The evening concluded with the Shine Awards that were presented by Matt Dawson of Question of Sport fame and he brought the same humour to the evening as he does on television.
The charity cream tea held at the Cloud Hotel as part of the Hampshire Fare Food Festival on Sunday 14th July was a great success and we raised £958-00 that was shared equally between Jack's Place at Naomi House and the Variety Club Children'sCharity. It was such a beautiful day that many people enjoyed their tea outside in our secluded garden that is a mass of colour at the moment. Linzi Luker donated the scones, Wrights Dairies donated the clotted cream and 3663 donated the strawberry jam. We had several raffle prizes donated by local businesses and Judy Goodlet of Radio Solent fame donated one of her 60 beautiful cushions that she is making for charity to celebrate her 60th birthday.
The next charity event to be held at the Cloud Hotel is the World's Biggest Coffee Morning on Friday September 27th in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Please come along to enjoy the company of your friends and to help raise alot of money for a very worthwhile cause.
August 7th is the next date for your diary all details are on the website. I founded the Wessex Women's Network 10 years ago and we will be having a special dinner to celebrate it's 10th birthday on Tuesday November 19th. I hope you will be-able to join me in the celebrations and hopefully you will put that date in your diary too.
Finally 'When the going gets tough the tough ask for help' Michael Heppell
That is what women's networking clubs are for, helping and supporting each other in good and bad times and I hope some of you feel you have been helped by members of the Wessex Women's Network during the past 10 years and have had fun as well.
Avril
I'm sure we all send our congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their son. As many of us are Mothers and Grandmothers we all know how it feels to give birth to our first child and that wonderful feeling when the baby is first put in your arms and you realise you are a Mother!
In June I attended the Women 1st Conference at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square. Women 1st was launched in 2009 to develop women into leadership roles in hospitality, passenger transport, travel and tourism. As always at these conferences there were some inspirational women speakers telling their stories of how they have succeeded in their careers. I particularly enjoyed listening to Liz Bingham , Managing Partner, People UK and Ireland, Ernst and Young. Liz is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusiveness and has been determined to create an environment where people from all backgrounds can succeed and flourish. I also enjoyed listening to Susan Gambardella, Vice President,Global Account Team, Coca-Cola Refreshments who had flown in from the USA for the conference. Both of these women were an inspiration and their stories encouraged everyone to realise how great their potential is if they take opportunities and have the right attitude in life. The evening concluded with the Shine Awards that were presented by Matt Dawson of Question of Sport fame and he brought the same humour to the evening as he does on television.
The charity cream tea held at the Cloud Hotel as part of the Hampshire Fare Food Festival on Sunday 14th July was a great success and we raised £958-00 that was shared equally between Jack's Place at Naomi House and the Variety Club Children'sCharity. It was such a beautiful day that many people enjoyed their tea outside in our secluded garden that is a mass of colour at the moment. Linzi Luker donated the scones, Wrights Dairies donated the clotted cream and 3663 donated the strawberry jam. We had several raffle prizes donated by local businesses and Judy Goodlet of Radio Solent fame donated one of her 60 beautiful cushions that she is making for charity to celebrate her 60th birthday.
The next charity event to be held at the Cloud Hotel is the World's Biggest Coffee Morning on Friday September 27th in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Please come along to enjoy the company of your friends and to help raise alot of money for a very worthwhile cause.
August 7th is the next date for your diary all details are on the website. I founded the Wessex Women's Network 10 years ago and we will be having a special dinner to celebrate it's 10th birthday on Tuesday November 19th. I hope you will be-able to join me in the celebrations and hopefully you will put that date in your diary too.
Finally 'When the going gets tough the tough ask for help' Michael Heppell
That is what women's networking clubs are for, helping and supporting each other in good and bad times and I hope some of you feel you have been helped by members of the Wessex Women's Network during the past 10 years and have had fun as well.
Avril
Sunday, 9 June 2013
Keep Smiling
The Wessex Women's Network met last week and although there weren't so many members there this time [probably due to half term] we had alot of fun and enjoyed each others company as usual. There is always a lively atmosphere at our meetings and alot of laughter.
As you know I am passionate about encouraging women to reach their full potential and I have watched one of my members Jane Pitt Pitts develop her confidence and business over the years. Jane offers an extensive range of handmade glass dishes, jewellery and sailing trophies. Jane attends the meetings on a regular basis and always brings samples of her work to display for other members to view or even buy www.confusionglass.co.uk
I continue to do my public speaking and last week spoke to the lively and very friendly Hebrew Ladies Luncheon Club in Bournemouth. I enjoy telling my story in the hope that it will encourage other women to fulfil their dreams and goals and to reach their full potential.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on Tuesday June 25th when Colin van Geffen will give a talk on 'The Red Arrows' I understand from Jan that this is a very interesting talk so I'm looking forward to welcoming you to the event.
We have had some lovely weather this week so hopefully summer is here to stay! The sun always lifts everyone's spirits and people smile more!
My final thought for today. Ladies the most important thing that you wear is your expression! You are never fully dressed until you smile and a smile not only makes you feel better but everyone around you. It's cheaper than a facelift and means the same in any language so keep smiling even if the sun isn't shining, YOU can still shine and sparkle.
Avril
I continue to do my public speaking and last week spoke to the lively and very friendly Hebrew Ladies Luncheon Club in Bournemouth. I enjoy telling my story in the hope that it will encourage other women to fulfil their dreams and goals and to reach their full potential.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on Tuesday June 25th when Colin van Geffen will give a talk on 'The Red Arrows' I understand from Jan that this is a very interesting talk so I'm looking forward to welcoming you to the event.
We have had some lovely weather this week so hopefully summer is here to stay! The sun always lifts everyone's spirits and people smile more!
My final thought for today. Ladies the most important thing that you wear is your expression! You are never fully dressed until you smile and a smile not only makes you feel better but everyone around you. It's cheaper than a facelift and means the same in any language so keep smiling even if the sun isn't shining, YOU can still shine and sparkle.
Avril
Wednesday, 1 May 2013
The Little Book of Adversity
Once again Jan Hoy booked us an entertaining and interesting speaker when the members of the Wessex Women's Network heard David Sullivan talk on 'Life as a Shepherd' on Wednesday April 24th. These meetings are always well attended and it is so nice to see so many regular members attend each month. I think as well as listening to some very interesting speakers we have a lot of fun at the meetings and have developed many friendships over the years. I founded the Wessex Women's Network in 2003 and we will be celebrating our 10th Anniversary later in the year. Details to follow once I have a date.
Talking of dates we are holding our annual charity cream tea at the Cloud Hotel on Sunday 14th July at 4pm and the all proceeds will be shared between the Variety Club Children's Charity and Jack's Place at Naomi House Children's Hospice. Please put it in your diary, booking is essential and we hope to attract alot of people and raise much needed funds for both the charities.. Linzi Luker who is one of our members will donate the scones as she does every year.
I had the pleasure of attending the launch of Women 1st's book 'The Little Book of Adversity' at the Cafe Royal in London on Monday 29th April. It has taken Sam Mercer, Sharon Glancy [the founder of Women1st] and Karen Roberts 2 years to write and is a practical guide to supporting women in the workplace. There are lots of tips and advice for women and I have the honour of being one of the case studies in the book along with some very influential women. Jo Fairly the co-founder of Green and Black's chocolate told her story on how she and her husband had founded the company. The evening was very well attended, alot of networking took place and the champagne flowed. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by everyone and I left the event feeling inspired and motivated once again! The book is not on general release just yet but I will let you know when you can buy it if anyone is interested.
As I write this the sun is shining and I've noticed how everyone's spirits have been lifted. I really do think the better weather is here at last. Our secluded garden is a very peaceful place to enjoy morning coffee or afternoon tea with family and friends. We are now serving Taylors of Harrogate coffee, the same as they serve at Betty's Tearooms in Harrogate.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on Wednesday May 29th. The speaker is Richard Burton who is a salesman and the title of his talk is Perfect Perfect!! Something us women are all trying to be!
I came across the following quote from Winston Churchill which I thought was very appropriate in these difficult economic times.
'Success is not final, failure is not final, it is the courage to continue that counts'
Enjoy the sunshine
Avril
Talking of dates we are holding our annual charity cream tea at the Cloud Hotel on Sunday 14th July at 4pm and the all proceeds will be shared between the Variety Club Children's Charity and Jack's Place at Naomi House Children's Hospice. Please put it in your diary, booking is essential and we hope to attract alot of people and raise much needed funds for both the charities.. Linzi Luker who is one of our members will donate the scones as she does every year.
I had the pleasure of attending the launch of Women 1st's book 'The Little Book of Adversity' at the Cafe Royal in London on Monday 29th April. It has taken Sam Mercer, Sharon Glancy [the founder of Women1st] and Karen Roberts 2 years to write and is a practical guide to supporting women in the workplace. There are lots of tips and advice for women and I have the honour of being one of the case studies in the book along with some very influential women. Jo Fairly the co-founder of Green and Black's chocolate told her story on how she and her husband had founded the company. The evening was very well attended, alot of networking took place and the champagne flowed. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by everyone and I left the event feeling inspired and motivated once again! The book is not on general release just yet but I will let you know when you can buy it if anyone is interested.
As I write this the sun is shining and I've noticed how everyone's spirits have been lifted. I really do think the better weather is here at last. Our secluded garden is a very peaceful place to enjoy morning coffee or afternoon tea with family and friends. We are now serving Taylors of Harrogate coffee, the same as they serve at Betty's Tearooms in Harrogate.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on Wednesday May 29th. The speaker is Richard Burton who is a salesman and the title of his talk is Perfect Perfect!! Something us women are all trying to be!
I came across the following quote from Winston Churchill which I thought was very appropriate in these difficult economic times.
'Success is not final, failure is not final, it is the courage to continue that counts'
Enjoy the sunshine
Avril
Wednesday, 3 April 2013
Summer Time?
With the weather being so cold and unpredictable it was very apt to have Trevor Guymer as the speaker at the Wessex Women's Network at our March meeting. Trevor is a meteorologist and climate expert from Southampton's National Oceanography Centre. He explained to us about the interactions between the the oceans, atmosphere land and ice. Apparently waves and storms are always a risk for coastal communities all over the world as well as those working at sea. It was interesting to hear how the oceans both moderate and drive climate variability. You could hear a pin drop during his talk as it was so fascinating. It was a full house and the Wessex Women are very seldom that quie
I attended the re-dedication of the updated Buckler's Hard Museum by Lord Ivar Mountbatten on March 26th. It was bitterly cold with a biting wind but I warmed myself up by going round the museum that is well worth a visit. I have lived in the New Forest for 38 years and had no idea about the history of Bucklers Hard. It was also interesting to see Sir Frances Chichester's yacht Gypsy Moth which was moored in the river.
One of the charities the Cloud Hotel supports is Vitalise and 3 times a year we give the Carers of Alzeimer's sufferers a night out and treat them to dinner. Last Thursday 19 people came from Netley Waterside House and had an added surprise as David Bonney Magician and member of the Magic Circle entertained them with some wonderful magic.
One of the charities the Cloud Hotel supports is Vitalise and 3 times a year we give the Carers of Alzeimer's sufferers a night out and treat them to dinner. Last Thursday 19 people came from Netley Waterside House and had an added surprise as David Bonney Magician and member of the Magic Circle entertained them with some wonderful magic.
Easter was cold but dry which was a bonus and even the sun came out just to let us know it is still around. I was lucky enough to have my whole family with me this Easter, all 12 of them and we did manage a long walk in the forest although the wind was biting cold and we were all pleased to get back home to the warm. This time last year we were all sitting out in the garden and enjoying barbecues!
For the second year running the Cloud Hotel sponsored the Napkin Folding competition at the Salon Culinaire held at Brockenhurst College and I have just returned from judging today's competition. It is always a pleasure to see young people enthusiastic about their chosen career and to be encouraged by their tutors to do their best. I am very passionate about encouraging young people to train and go into hospitality and help to raise the standards that are much needed in certain areas of the industry.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on Wednesday April 24th when David Sullivan will be speaking about Life as a Shepherd. I look forward to welcoming you to this event which promises to be another very interesting talk and again quite topical after how this cold weather has affected the farmers and their flocks.
Business is tough for everyone at the moment and not helped by the weather but don't lower your prices to compete with your competitors. It devalues you and sends a message to your customers that you are prepared to reduce your prices at any cost to the business.
'It's a funny thing about life: If you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it" Somerset Maughan
Business is tough for everyone at the moment and not helped by the weather but don't lower your prices to compete with your competitors. It devalues you and sends a message to your customers that you are prepared to reduce your prices at any cost to the business.
'It's a funny thing about life: If you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it" Somerset Maughan
Although it's hard to believe it is officially summertime so keep your fingers crossed that we will soon be enjoying some warmer weather.
Avril
Friday, 8 March 2013
International Women's Day
International Women's Day is a day for women all over the world to first of all to be proud of being a woman and also to give each other support. I hope you are having a good day and doing one good thing to support a woman you know either in business or just personally. Wishing all the members of the Wessex Women's Network a life of good health, happiness success and respect.
Avril
Avril
Thursday, 28 February 2013
It's Magic
Last night members of the Wessex Women's Network were entertained by Dave Bonner and Martin Middleditch and what a brilliant evening it was too. Dave is a member of the Magic Circle and was assisted by Martin. They told us the history of magic as well as amazing us with some of their magic tricks. They really lifted our spirits on a cold and gloomy evening and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. It is so important for us women to get out and have some fun especially at the moment when everyone seems so depressed! We definately need some sunshine to cheer us up. It's only 3 weeks until the clocks go forward and hopefully Spring will be here with a hot summer to follow. You have to stay optimistic or you wouldn't get up in the morning.
On Monday evening I attended the Fellows Dinner for the Institute of Hospitality at the Landmark Hotel in London. I am actually a Fellow of the Institute but I can still wear a skirt! I find it so disappointing that these events in the hospitality industry are still so male dominated. Us women have a long way to go before we are on an equal footing with the men and are recognised as a force to be reckoned with. However it's onwards and upwards and never give up is my motto.
Business is tough for everyone at the moment but when the going gets tough the tough get going and it's the survival of the fittest. It's an opportunity to take that small step towards achieving something you never thought possible so ladies get out of your comfort zone and take that first step towards achieving your goals. It takes courage but if you never do it you will never know what you might have achieved.
I'm off to the ballet tonight. I'm going to see the English National Ballet perform Sleeping Beauty at the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. It's one of my favourite ballets with fabulous music. My ambition was to be in a ballet company and the nearest I got to my dream was to appear many years ago in Sleeping Beauty as a rat with the Royal Ballet Company when they visited the Mayflower Theatre! They used to use children from a local dancing school as extras in those days and I was teaching ballet at a dancing school in Southampton at the time and being small myself I was able to join the children as a rat!
Finally remember in these difficult times
Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success.
The daffodils are out so Spring must be on the way.
Til next time
Avril
Saturday, 26 January 2013
Photos in Hampshire Life
I expect you are surprised to read another blog from me only a week after I posted my last one but I have some news for you. Hampshire Life have published the photos of some of us who attended the Christmas Dinner held in December at the Cloud Hotel in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support and I thought you would like to know.
Today was a lovely sunny day and everyone's spirits were lifted and people began to leave their homes and come out for lunch and tea. Hooray!
Today's quote;
'Go as far as you can see and when you get there go farther'
Until next time
Avril
Today was a lovely sunny day and everyone's spirits were lifted and people began to leave their homes and come out for lunch and tea. Hooray!
Today's quote;
'Go as far as you can see and when you get there go farther'
Until next time
Avril
Friday, 18 January 2013
A New Year
I can't believe I wrote my last Blog for the Wessex Women's Network 2 months ago. Time just flies by when you are having fun. Christmas at the Cloud Hotel is always so busy and this year was no exception.The pre-Christmas functions started on December 1st so by the time Christmas Day came we all felt like eating fish and chips because we had served so much turkey but tradition is tradition so I still cooked turkey on Boxing day when my family came and joined me for our family celebrations.
So here we are with a New Year a fresh start with endless possibilities ahead of us. The Wessex Women's Network started the year with a full house to hear Shay McConnon give us an inspirational and amusing talk on leadership and how to lead your people. It was a great start to the year and raised all our spirits on a dark and cold evening. And talking about raising your spirits I love this quote from Oprah Winfrey.
'Surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher'
My spirits are always raised after an evening with the vibrant and fun loving members of the Wessex Women's Network.
Lin Clark came to the meeting for the first time and brought samples of the delicious marshmallows she makes. We all drooled over them, her company is called Little Delicious and they certainly were. We devoured them.
The next Wessex Women's Network meeting is on February 27th when Dave Bonner who is a member of the Magic Circle is going to tell us about the History of Magic.
With romance in the air why not persuade your loved one to bring you to the Cloud Hotel for a romantic candlelit dinner in our intimate Encore Restaurant. Add a little sparkle to your life and enjoy a 4 course dinner £39-50 to include coffee and a small gift.
With all the doom and gloom reported in the media it would be easy to let your spirits drop but I'm always optimistic and I have discovered that positive people are a magnet for positive results so I'm looking forward to another busy and successful year and hope you are too.
'You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do' Henry Ford
So get out there and do it and live your dreams.
Until next time and I won't leave it so long.
Avril
Tuesday, 13 November 2012
Six weeks to Christmas
With only 6 weeks to go until Christmas I'm sure like me you are wondering where the year has gone? I have just returned from 2 weeks relaxing in Tenerife before the Christmas rush and while I was away the clocks went back and the trees changed into their glorious autumn colours. How lucky we are to live in such a beautiful part of the country and after watching the devastation that hurricane Sandy brought to New York recently I feel we should never complain about our weather again but I expect we will!
I haven't been able to report on the last Wessex Women's Network meeting that we had in October before now as I left for Tenerife the following day. Our speaker Viv Oyolu gave us a very interesting and entertaining talk about her life and how she came from Nigeria to England to make a career for herself. Her ambition was to always be a radio presenter and at last she has achieved her ambition because she is the presenter on Dream Corner a radio programme and online hub inspiring women of all ages to follow their dreams and passions. Her bubbly personality lifted all our spirits.
Our next meeting is on Tuesday November 27th when Charisma of Fawley boutique is presenting another fashion show and if it is anything like last year's fashion show it is an event not to miss. It is getting booked up so if you want to come and see this year's autumn and winter fashions book soon to avoid disappointment.
There are still some places available for the Christmas Dinner that is being held at the Cloud Hotel on Friday December 14th cost is £30-00 and all proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer Support. To get us into the Christmas spirit the Highcliffe Junior Choir will start the evening with a selection of Christmas Carols. There will be a raffle so come prepared to buy some tickets and boost the funds.
Our pre-Christmas lunches and dinners start on December 1st until 24th so if you want to give a member of your family or friends a pre-Christmas treat in true traditional style book before it is too late. The menus can be seen on our website www.cloudhotel.co.uk
In spite of all the doom and gloom reported in the papers [that's if you read them, I try not to] there is alot to be thankful for in this country and I really do believe that positive attitudes create positive people and positive people create positive results. I personally love the challenges of running a business even though some days can be very stressful but with the twin elements of knowledge and power anything is possible.
If you are bored with life, if you don't get up every morning with a burning desire to do things then you don't have enough goals. Lou Holtz
Every day you should get up, dress up and reach for your goals.
Bye for now
Avril
I haven't been able to report on the last Wessex Women's Network meeting that we had in October before now as I left for Tenerife the following day. Our speaker Viv Oyolu gave us a very interesting and entertaining talk about her life and how she came from Nigeria to England to make a career for herself. Her ambition was to always be a radio presenter and at last she has achieved her ambition because she is the presenter on Dream Corner a radio programme and online hub inspiring women of all ages to follow their dreams and passions. Her bubbly personality lifted all our spirits.
Our next meeting is on Tuesday November 27th when Charisma of Fawley boutique is presenting another fashion show and if it is anything like last year's fashion show it is an event not to miss. It is getting booked up so if you want to come and see this year's autumn and winter fashions book soon to avoid disappointment.
There are still some places available for the Christmas Dinner that is being held at the Cloud Hotel on Friday December 14th cost is £30-00 and all proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer Support. To get us into the Christmas spirit the Highcliffe Junior Choir will start the evening with a selection of Christmas Carols. There will be a raffle so come prepared to buy some tickets and boost the funds.
Our pre-Christmas lunches and dinners start on December 1st until 24th so if you want to give a member of your family or friends a pre-Christmas treat in true traditional style book before it is too late. The menus can be seen on our website www.cloudhotel.co.uk
In spite of all the doom and gloom reported in the papers [that's if you read them, I try not to] there is alot to be thankful for in this country and I really do believe that positive attitudes create positive people and positive people create positive results. I personally love the challenges of running a business even though some days can be very stressful but with the twin elements of knowledge and power anything is possible.
If you are bored with life, if you don't get up every morning with a burning desire to do things then you don't have enough goals. Lou Holtz
Every day you should get up, dress up and reach for your goals.
Bye for now
Avril
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