The Person Behind the Business: Michelle Stubbs

An overview of yourself and your current role

I’m Michelle Stubbs, the owner of Delamere Manor — a 100-acre estate in Cheshire that I’ve transformed into a luxury wedding and events venue, pouring my heart into it over the past twenty years.

Over the past decade, I’ve developed the business from scratch, steering it through everything from planning applications to peak season madness. In the early days, I did everything myself — from handpicking suppliers to cooking breakfasts for our guests — because I loved being part of every celebration. As the business has grown, my role has evolved, but I’m still closely connected to every couple’s story. I read every piece of feedback, celebrate every success, and share the emotional moments with my team. Today, I’m focused on how we grow Delamere beyond weddings, with plans for eco-accommodation, wellness experiences, and a deeper connection to the land and local community. Alongside Delamere, I’m also growing a business in the USA, with the hope of replicating some of what makes Delamere special across the Atlantic. What do you enjoy most about your job?

The creativity, the problem-solving, and the sense of purpose. No two days are the same — one minute I’m reviewing financial forecasts, the next I’m kneedeep in planting plans. It’s a job that keeps you learning, adapting, and connected to people in a really personal way.

Was a role like this always what you aspired to?

Not at all. My background was originally in law and equestrian sports, and I imagined a more conventional career path — although I always had a passion for hosting and entertaining outside of work.

Taking on Delamere wasn’t part of some master plan — I was suddenly responsible for a vast estate and had to figure out how to make it work, both emotionally and financially. It wasn’t part of a grand design — it was a challenge I chose to take on, and I’ve grown into it ever since. It’s been a journey of figuring things out as I went along, making mistakes, learning fast, and building something meaningful over time.

Tell us about your previous roles/ business journey

I originally trained as a lawyer and was a competitive equestrian rider for many years. I also worked in hospitality through university, which taught me more about real customer service than any textbook ever could.

Running Delamere has been the steepest learning curve of my life — balancing the pressures of building a business, managing a large property, and making tough decisions on my own.

I rolled up my sleeves and did whatever needed doing, at all hours of the day and night. Over time, I built an incredible team who share that same passion and pride. I recently completed the Goldman Sachs 10KSB programme, which gave me new tools to think more strategically about growth, resilience, and building a business that can stand the test of time.

Tell us a bit about what you do outside of work to relax

I love to travel — it’s often when I find my best ideas and fresh inspiration. I’m happiest when I’m outdoors, whether that’s playing tennis, walking, or just spending time in nature. Pilates has also become a big part of my life for keeping my body and mind in balance.

Most importantly, I’m lucky to have an incredible group of friends who keep me grounded and supported, no matter what’s going on at work.

In an ideal world, what else would you like to be?

I’d love to use my experience to support others — especially women — who are building ambitious businesses from unconventional beginnings. I’m exploring consultancy work to help venue owners and creatives turn their visions into real, sustainable ventures. There’s something powerful about helping others see what’s possible when the rulebook doesn’t fit. What advice would you give to anyone else in business?

You don’t have to have it all figured out at the start — and don’t be afraid to course-correct. Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s — in fact, it probably won’t.

Trust your instincts, stay close to your values, and surround yourself with people who lift you up — it makes all the difference when the challenges come. Stay rooted in your values, be kind to yourself during the hard seasons, and always keep learning.