It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! As such, spirits were high as over 70 business figures across Dorset and beyond journeyed through the dark winter morning to attend our very last TBN breakfast meeting of the year. The halls of the Hallmark Hotel were truly decked as the familiar Merlot Suite was festively adorned with sparkling tinsel and a twinkling Christmas Tree.
As our members gathered for the morning kick-starters of coffee and tea, conversation was in full flow. Those in attendance looked back at the business year that’s been and forward to the future, with some interesting discussions on how technology is continuing to develop; bringing people closer and closer so that one day everyone could be connected in one big ‘global network’. Other future talks included the frightening genius of targeted marketing which continues to influence our everyday decisions.
With everything in full swing our charismatic host, Jay Rachet, ushered everyone to their tables in order to kick start our Agenda. Once all members and guests had enjoyed breakfast, our first round table discussion began with the usual one minute elevator pitches. Following on from the pitches, conversation around each table was vast and varied. From the looming auto-enrolment deadlines, handmade chocolates (which had several members salivating), to what the perfect corporate gift is this Christmas.
Torie Freestone, of Freestone PA Limited, then took to the floor as our first two minute. Although a little shy, Torie’s modest Scot’s charm shone through as she gave a history of her business and the services she provides. Freestone PA Limited are a company designed to help businesses with all aspects of admin – from diaries, finances to recruitment – so that business owners have time to focus on what really matters to them. Something we feel sure many of our members could benefit from!
After Torie’s two minutes, there was a quick shuffle around the room as all made their way to the next round table. After an efficient series of enticing pitches, with the New Year not far away, it was no surprise that the round table discussions returned to more talks of the future. This time conversation turned to retirement, not only around the usual spiel on the importance of saving for retirement, but also planning your personal life and wellbeing. Members thoughtfully spoke on how so many people live for what they ‘do’ rather than who they are and the importance of considering not just money but what will keep yourself happy in retirement.
Our second two minute warmer came from Jeremy Whitticase of Puncturesafe. Jeremy gave a very visual demonstration of his innovative new product by stabbing a tyre with a screw driver. However, the damaged tyre did not have long to hiss as within seconds, thanks to Puncturesafe, the tyre was resealed and ready again for road use! This sparked a great Q&A question as Jeremy responded to the room’s inquisitive questions.
There was just time for Congratulations and a photo opportunity for Dorset Wedding Industry Award Winners John Parrett (Fox Tailoring), Tony Beales (The Italian Villa) and Finalist Ian Davey (Signature Catering)
And so, as Jay rapped his gavel, it was time to round up the very last TBN of 2015. Jay thanked the over 70 people in attendance and formally presented the winner of our pilot TBN Winter Golf day, Simon Dallimore was the well deserved winner of the Trophy having played to his (single figure) handicap in appalling weather conditions. Winner of the Champagne for most guests introduced this month went to charming TBN regular Liam Childs.
With that, the final TBN for 2015 has come to a close and my how the year has flown! However, before we all go our separate ways to spend much deserved time resting with family and loved ones, there is still one more chance to gather with us!
Tickets are currently available for our White Christmas lunch at the multi-award winning Italian Villa on the 17th of December. As the only venue in Dorset where it’s guaranteed to snow this Christmas, the lunch is certain to get you in the festive spirit. Plus the delicious food at The Italian Villa is not to be missed! Get your ticket here: https://theboardroomnetwork.com/events/white-christmas-lunch-2015/
However, if you won’t be joining us on the 17th, May we take this early opportunity to wish you a very merry Christmas and all the best for 2016.
We’ll see you in the New Year!