Taking our business to the next level
Laura Bacon comes from a long line of florists and has been teaching and working in the industry herself for twenty years. In January 2023 she spotted an exciting business opportunity, taking over Flowers by Lesley in Sutton-in-Ashfield, an independent florist that had been serving the Sutton community for almost 40 years.
Laura's plan was to take the business online, setting up a new website and online shop that would allow her to grow the company. There was just one problem: she didn’t know how.
“I knew absolutely nothing about websites and was a bit overwhelmed by the thought of it,” Laura says.
The Enterprising Ashfield project proved to be the answer, allowing Laura to complete the Website Design for Small Businesses course, taught by NTU in partnership with Ashfield District Council and part funded by the Government's Town Fund.
Stress-free
“I couldn't afford to have someone create a website for me so I was very happy when I heard about this course,” Laura says. “It has saved me a few thousand pounds in having to get someone to build a website for me. It has made me create the policies and terms and conditions for the shop, which needed doing. It has also made me review the prices and costings of all the products so I know they are correct before they go live on the website. It has been the kick I needed to get organised. I am sure that having this website will generate another income stream for the business.
The course has been a brilliant, stress-free process. From the representative popping in (he was friendly and informative) to booking and attending the course. The lady who sorts out the bookings was very helpful and it is nice to be able to email her directly with any queries. The course itself was excellent and the tutor was very informative.”
“The course has been a brilliant, stress-free process. The course itself was excellent and the tutor was very informative."
Laura is more than happy to recommend the courses on offer through Enterprising Ashfield too. In fact, two of her team members have also studied on courses through the programme.