Inform Magazine - St Albans Edition - September 2021 by thebusinessescommunity

inform M

Issue 5 - September 2021

Keeping you “Inform”ed with all the news, products, services, events and opportunities available in St Albans!

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Taking Your Business One Step Beyond Businesses COMMUNITY

Contents

What’s in store for you in this month’s Inform Magazine?

Why Every Restaurant Needs A Virtual Tour

How To Help Others Build Their Digital Conﬁdence Online

Fed Up With Working From Home?

Local Events

How To Take Your Business One Step Beyond

What’s A Pop Up Shop?

Celebrating 10 Years Of Mums UnLtd

Local Recipe How To Cook The Rothamsted Way

5 Questions We Asked A St Albans Business

The Voice of Hertfordshire

Local Businesses On Your Doorstep

Let’s Go Shopping #ShopLocal

The Name’s Bond, James Bond

News Round Up

International Women In Mid-Life Day

10 Things To Look For When Booking Your Childs’ Birthday Party

Rothamsted Manor’s Annual Heritage Open Day Festival

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Businesses COMMUNITY

It’s September! Wow, what a summer! Time certainly does ﬂy! From exam results, to lots of covid testing, from some people being able to escape abroad, to others having a staycation - it’s been a summer to remember! And….before you know it, Christmas is going to be here! Yes, we know, don’t mention the “C” word, but we tell you now, it’s going to ﬂy by. However, before we get into all the amazing things on offer for the festive period, let’s enjoy Autumn with the September issue of Inform Magazine! As usual, we have some fantastic products, services, events, tips and recipes to share with you - from lots of amazing businesses right here in St Albans. From Pop-Up Shop opportunities with Cositas on Holywell Hill, to 20% discount on haircuts at Headcase Barbers, also on Holywell Hill (check out the News Round Up section of the magazine), to a yummy recipe straight from the horses mouth at Rothamsted Restaurant, to an evening with

Bond, James Bond, all in aid of Home Start Herts! So grab your martini, shaken not stirred, and sit back and enjoy reading about all the amazing opportunities that are right here on our doorstep. Ooh, and we are thrilled to bits to be “back in the room” for the September jelly co-working event at Rothamsted Enterprises - everyone is welcome - so if you fancy a change of scene and want to work for the day in a buzzing environment with like-minded people, then book your ticket today Have a super doop month, The Businesses Community Team x

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Why every restaurant needs a Virtual Tour Eating out at a restaurant is truly one of life’s great pleasures.

But it’s true to say that the whole dining out experience is not just about food but that the ‘ambience’ of the restaurant also ranks highly when people are looking for a great place to eat out. Whether it’s a romantic meal for two, or a gathering for friends, ﬁnding a restaurant with the right ‘feel’ is often as important as the food itself! As such, we’ve seen a huge upsurge in restaurants tempting people through the door, not just with sumptuous menus, but by providing would-be punters with a unique immersive opportunity to ‘walk through’ their premises from the comfort of their own home by using a unique virtual tour to market their offering.

Once such local restaurant is the St Villa Cocktail Bar and Restaurant, in St Albans. See how they have used one of our 3D Virtual Tours to showcase their premises to potential customers. And others are following suit too. So, if you own or run a restaurant too, then read on to ﬁnd out why we believe every restaurant needs a 3D virtual tour as part of the marketing mix for their business. 1. Potential customers research restaurants online before visiting It’s a fact that 70-80% of people research a restaurant online before visiting. So if you can provide them with

a unique opportunity to take a good look around ﬁrst, it’s guaranteed to help you get more customers through the door. 2. Virtual tours can increase reservations A virtual tour is more than just a unique walkthrough - it’s a tool to help convert bookings. A virtual tour allows you to add and showcase menus, link to customer reviews, embed videos, outline details of special offers and also allow people to see table locations so customers can book their favourite space too. 3. It’s easy to create a buzz on social media with virtual tours Social media is huge in terms of promoting your restaurant and for many owners it is the go-to channel when it comes to marketing their business. And the great news is that virtual tours provide you with great content for these channels as they provide a unique level of interactivity that people love.

or use a service if the business has a virtual tour. And the Covid pandemic has reinforced the use of technology by people to interact virtually too. SPECIAL OFFER FOR LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND BARS We’re running a unique special offer to support local restaurants and bars in St Albans and Harpenden by providing them with a FREE VIRTUAL TOUR (worth £500+). Find out more here

Immersive Walkthroughs is a Specialist Local Provider of 3D Virtual Tours that give people the freedom to experience any place at any time. Approved Matterport Service Partners and Google Street View Trusted Photographers.

4. Virtual tours keep people on your website 5-10X longer and Google loves them too It’s a documented fact that the interactivity of virtual tours keeps people engaged on websites 5-10 times longer than they may do on sites without a virtual tour. And that’s a big positive tick for your website and website visitors. Add to that, Google loves sites that provide great content and a great user experience for consumers so a virtual tour provides real value for your site and for search engines and users alike. 5. Millennials are more likely to book based on a virtual tour. An independent Google survey suggested that 18-34 year olds are 130% more likely to book a venue, hotel

www.immersivewalkthroughs.com

Top Tips with Tania Bringing you tech tips from BT Skills for Tomorrow

Helping Others

A timely topic that will help you take your learner through the steps to download and register on the NHS App.

This month we take a look at how you can help others build their digital conﬁdence online. We’ve launched a range of guides and activity sheets to get you started. Simply pick a guide or activity sheet – download or print off. Ready to go? Help a vulnerable neighbour, elderly relative or community group to get online. What are you waiting for!

With our ‘digital bingo’ activity sheet, you’ll be having a bit of fun with your learner(s). Whether they are complete beginners or a little more advanced. See who can be the ﬁrst to watch a funny cat video, look up directions to their favourite place or check out the weather forecast for the next few days.

With the ‘getting started’ guide you’ll be helping your learner with the basics of their digital journey. Building their confidence in getting their devices set up on wi-fi and searching the web. Have you passed your old iPhone or Samsung onto parents or grandparents – the ‘downloading and app’ guide will help build their confidence with the basics. We have guides for both Apple devices, (iOS) or Android - for devices like Nokia, Samsung, and Doro. The ‘digital treasure hunt’ will have you supporting your learner search for items online, building their digital confidence along the way.

In this guide you will be helping your learner to search the internet for interesting sports facts. Help them look up their favourite team, player, or sports. You’ll also help them learn how to ﬁnd a video of their favourites in action on YouTube.

Want to help your family or small business get the most out of tech? Find a range of free courses and advice for your home and work life at BT Skills for Tomorrow Tania Young leads on BT’s Digital Skills programme for older and vulnerable customers.

Fed up working from home? Need to downsize or upsize your office? Then consider Stanta Business Centre, Soothouse Spring, St Albans AL3 6PF Offices to rent STANTA Business Centre’s USP is that there is plenty of onsite FREE parking and there is no long-term commitment to a lease; after an initial three months, the notice period is one month, so if your business changes, you’re not tied down. Budgeting is easy as there is an all-inclusive fixed monthly fee, so the only extra cost is your telecoms and broadband. There is also a large conference room, with WIFI and a flat screen TV which is available for tenants to use at no cost (up to 2 hrs per day).

Current vacancies: S15: 2-4 person unfurnished first floor office with sink £830.00 (plus VAT) all- inclusive monthly licence

Suite 3: 4-6 person 412 sq ft. unfurnished ground ﬂoor ofﬁce with kitchenette. £1391.67 (plus VAT) all-inclusive monthly licence

All the information, prices and pictures are on the website: www.stanta.co.uk/premises/ ofﬁces-to-rent-in-st-albans

S11: 1st floor 7.6m2 One- person desk space (or two desks can be taken by one business) in a bright first floor office with shared kitchenette, microwave, toaster and coffee maker.

St Albans Enterprise Agency, known as STANTA, helps micro businesses to start, grow and develop, so tenants can beneﬁt from free business advice and the opportunity to attend a wide variety of training courses, which will help your business! The free business advice and training is also available to any local business (under 3 years old) - you don’t need to be a tenant. Call 01727 837760 for more details.

£277.50 plus VAT all-inclusive licence

St Albans Enterprise Agency (STANTA) Suite 19 Stanta Business Centre 3 Soothouse Spring St Albans AL3 6PF advice@stanta.co.uk www.stanta.co.uk 01727 837760

EVENTS Check the TBC Calendar HERE for all events 2nd September - Mums UnLtd Online Networking Meeting 5th September - Rothamsted Manor Afternoon Tea 7th September - Mums UnLtd Watford Group 9th September - Athena St Albans South Meeting 9th September - Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards Gala Dinner 10th September - Mums UnLtd Online Evening Networking Meeting 13th September - Mums UnLtd Online Networking Meeting 14th September - The Business Network South Herts 15th September - Athena St Albans North Meeting 16th September - The Businesses Community “in the ﬂesh” Jelly Co-working Event 17th September - Cappuccino Connections Beds and St Albans 20th September - Mums UnLtd Online Meet Up 23rd September - Women In Leadership Lunch 10 12

One Step Beyond I believe in businesses that can work without you. I’m here to help thriving business owners take one step beyond. Who want a business that works for them – and not the other way round! To work less and grow more. To achieve sustainable growth, faster than they could alone.

Simplicity and sustainability

Hi, I’m Jeremy. ActionCoach St Albans. I’ve set up over 27 businesses and coached over 400 business owners in the St Albans area. I know what makes (and can break) a business! The most successful businesses are the ones that can look after their owners. How is yours treating you? 12

I’m a business coach on mission to simplify businesses so they can run without their owners. My job is to guide the change needed to reach their next growth stage. Creating the headspace to go from Manager mindset to Owner-Investor. To make plans to exceed their current rate of success and expectations. To streamline their approach before they hire senior management or prepare to sell.

A lasting business legacy

Let’s talk

No successful business owner can afford to waste time. If you’re seeing success now, it’s the right time to invest in making solid plans. The next downturn is never a good time to ask ‘what now?!’. My growth accelerator programme is ideal for you, if like me, you believe in businesses built on a legacy of pride, validation and gratitude, in order to be genuinely successful. I work best with like-minded owners who are prepared to step up. Make challenges. Tackle stress and celebrate their successes.

I’m Jeremy Graham-Clare. Here to help you and your business take one step beyond… To continue to support our local community in the St Albans area I am offering 5 Inform readers a gifted coaching session. Email us at Stalbans@actioncoach.com or visit our website stalbans. actioncoach.co.uk So we can answer the question - ‘what now?’

Pop up Shop Hire at Cositas to engage with and create a personal relationship with their audience. For both physical and online businesses it’s important to keep one foot in the door of the other world. A Pop Up Shop is a great way for an online business to give their customers the chance to know, like and trust both them and their products in the most authentic way possible - in real life!

As important as it is for bricks and mortar shops to have an online presence in this changing retail landscape , it’s also just as important for online businesses to have a face to them. Many businesses do this through social media and the ever popular lives, reels or videos form a staple part of their marketing strategy 14

Whether you choose to collaborate with another business to share the cost and the workload we love the opportunity to get to work closely with other small independents like us.

We’re an established multi award winning Home Interiors Shop based on Holywell Hill in St Albans, right next to the entrance to St Albans Cathedral. We’ve been operating as a Pop Up Shop venue host for nearly 3 years now and over that time we’ve hosted all sorts of small businesses from furniture and upholstered products, art, gifts, crystals, fashion; the list goes on… Many small business owners have won more online sales than usual on the week and the weeks following their Pop Up as customers get to see their products in person and they get to create amazing content with all their stock looking it’s absolute best.

In the coming months we’re lucky enough to be hosting furniture, jewellery and crystal Pop Up Shops and have just made new dates available for the Christmas period enable to showcase 10 independent local businesses right here in St Albans, giving you the chance to browse their products in real life and meet the owners of theses fabulous brands.

Hire Our Space - Cositas St Albans Home - Cositas St Albans

Celebrating 10 years of Mums UnLtd Mums UnLtd celebrated their 10th birthday this year after being founded by Debbie Gilbert in February 2011. Mums UnLtd provides online and face to face meetings that support mums who are thinking of starting a business or who have an existing business.

Debbie Gilbert tells us more about it Why did you start Mums UnLtd? “I realised there was a gap in the market for mums who wanted to meet other mums in business. Mums also needed business advice and support, and with over 20 years in business under my belt, I felt I could offer that. We knew people needed events which fitted around children and that was low in cost. So ten years ago, I launched the first Mums UnLtd group in Hemel Hempstead, which I wasn’t expecting to be so popular with 40 people turning up! I went on to open St Albans, Watford, Harpenden Amersham and then expanded into Whitstable in Kent and Northampton. I have a great team of group leaders who run their meetings so expertly.” What makes Mums UnLtd different from other business groups? “We have built a tribe but without the cost of membership, and that is something extraordinary. We aimed to offer flexibility.

So, we understand that if you have children and something crops up, meaning you can’t attend an event you have booked, we allow you to transfer it. There aren’t any other business groups out there that do that. We also have our Shining Star Awards each year to recognise the amazing women in our community. This is celebrated with a larger event. We also do a large Christmas event which brings all our groups together. Because we aren’t just one group, we have offered so many opportunities to the people who attend to promote their business. Not only in the UK but across the globe. From September 2021, we will be returning to face to face but also keeping our online meetings.”

What makes you feel proud?

How do I join you?

“The growth and development of the women who attend make me feel very proud of what Mums UnLtd has helped others achieve.

“We are an open house and don’t charge a membership –everyone is also welcome along. You need to book in advance. We would love to help you establish and grow your business.”

We have also won several business awards, including Best Networking Company in the SME National Awards in 2018, Best Networking Company in Hertfordshire in 2012, 2014 and 2018 and East of England Business Champions in 2014. Our winners of our Shining Star Awards are also so inspiring. We have an independent judging panel that award gold, silver and bronze awards and a Shining Star of the Year. This year this was won by Louise Murphy from Harpenden. Her business Lou Murphy Styles, which sells French Fashion, has gone from strength to strength. She has immersed herself in the business community and offers outstanding customer service. It was a privilege to see her recognised.”

SPECIAL OFFER FOR READERS OF THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY – FIRST MEETING FREE – JUST EMAIL debbie@mumsunltd.co.uk and quote TBCSept21 and tell us which meeting you would like. The only condition is that you haven’t attended before and we will book you in. If you have any more questions call Debbie Gilbert on Tel 07795 683598 www.mumsunltd.co.uk

This months local recipe is a vegan recipe and comes courtesy of Jeremy Beasley and the team at Rothamsted Restaurant. Vegetable Rendang & Turmeric Rice (vegan) INGREDIENTS (serves 6) The Curry 3 tbsn vegetable oil 250g sweet potato diced 250g butternut squash peeled and diced 250g mixed peppers diced 250g carrots diced 2 x lemon grass 2 x 400ml coconut milk 4 tbsp desiccated coconut 2 lime leaves 1 tbsp vegetable stock powder 2 tspn tamarind paste 1 tspn golden syrup

The Paste 15 dry chillies 6-8 small shallots Thumb of ginger peeled and chopped 3 lemon grass stalks 4 garlic cloves chopped The Rice 2 tbsp oil 2 tsp mustard seeds 2 tsp turmeric 10 curry leaves (optional) 700g jasmine rice 2 tsp vegetable stock powder

vegetable stock, tamarind paste, sugar and salt to the pan. Put on a very low heat for 30 mins more. You should start to see the oil separating from the mix. It’s ready when the vegetables are tender. 5. For the rice, use a heavy-based saucepan with a lid. Heat the oil in the pan and add the mustard seeds. Once the seeds start popping, add the turmeric, curry leaves (if using) and rice, and mix well.

Method 1. For the paste, soak the chillies in boiling water for 15 mins. Drain, remove seeds and whizz with the rest of the paste ingredients in a small food processor until smooth. 2. Heat the oil in a wok or a heavybased ﬂameproof casserole dish. Fry the paste for 5 mins until the aroma is released. Add the lemongrass and mix well. Then add the chopped vegetables and add the coconut milk and 250ml water. Bring to the boil, then lower to a simmer, uncovered. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and more often towards the end.

6. Add the vegetable stock and 1 litre of water. Bring to the boil, then turn down to the lowest simmer and cook, covered, for 5 mins. Remove from the heat, with the lid on and leave to steam for 25 mins.

Serve and enjoy! Next time you are in Harpenden, be sure to pop in to the spacious Rothamsted Restaurant, who offer sustainable, locally-sourced produce. The restaurant also has outside dining pods. Check out their delicious menu as well as take away Farr Brew beer www.rothamstedenterprises.com/ rothamsted-restaurant

3. Meanwhile, toast the coconut in a frying pan on a low heat for 5-7 mins until golden brown. Set aside to cool. Using a blender, coarsely blend it to finer pieces – but not too fine. Put to one side. 4. After 30mins hrs, add the coconut, kaffir lime leaves,

5 Questions We Asked A St Albans Business We love ﬁnding out more about the people behind the businesses in this amazing city. This month, we asked Rebecca Went, a Wellness Copywriter, our “famous ﬁve” questions: a family, started to sink in. The desire for more freedom, more control over my time and income was also present. It was at that point it all clicked for me and I knew it was the right time. I now get to do what I love every single day! What does your business offer its customers?

What made you start your own business? I’d always known I wanted to work for myself, but as many will know, taking that leap away from a steady and reliable income is not an easy thing to do. After having my daughter, the realisation of trying to ﬁnd a job I’d enjoy and could ﬁt around

If you’re running a business, then let’s face it - you need to make sales. This is where having impactful copy that is concise, informative and engaging is so important. I write copy on your behalf to promote or sell your business through any of the following methods; websites, blog posts, newsletters, landing pages, email campaigns, product/service descriptions - the list goes on! My job is to persuade your audience to take action.

What piece of advice would you give to another business owner? Don’t get caught up comparing your business to others in your field. Comparing ourselves with others is natural, but comparison without perspective can be a dangerous thing. Remember that we all have different goals, are at different stages and What kind of customers are you have different lives. If you find looking for? Are there any types yourself doing it, take a step of businesses you would like to back and have some perspective. collaborate with? Everybody starts at zero. My industry of expertise is within www.rebeccawent.com the wellness industry, so I mainly support experts, coaches and rebecca@rebeccawent.com businesses within this area. The wellness industry covers areas such as fitness, mindIf you are a business in St body, nutrition, healthy eating, Albans, get in touch to answer supplements, skincare, beauty, our famous 5 questions and workplace wellbeing, plus feature your business in Inform more. I’m also happy to support Magazine - send your answers businesses from other industries to the above questions, along that are trying to make a positive with images to accompany the impact in the community. article and how people can get in contact with you and we will What’s the toughest part of do the rest - email stalbans@ running your business? thebusinessescommunitycom Definitely finding the time to keep on top of my business social media accounts. I enjoy doing them, but when busy with writing projects - they often get left behind! 21

The Voice of Hertfordshire Herts Chamber provides first-class business support to companies of all sizes and industries, through a range of membership benefits and networking opportunities. We support businesses, influencing key decision-makers in local and central government and regularly seek feedback from the business community when policy is being developed locally, nationally and internationally.

As the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Accredited Chamber for Hertfordshire, members can beneﬁt from association with 53 other UK Chambers and a network of 50+ Chambers globally. Our expertise in organisational development, training, marketing, sales, and established events programme will enable you to: • Foster strategic partnerships • Connect with other members • Provide you and your staff with the knowledge and conﬁdence to grow and sustain your business • Voice your opinion to key stakeholders We’re the largest independent business support organisation within Hertfordshire and the fastest growing Chamber within the national BCC network for 2019. Our ambassadors are well connected and can introduce fellow business leaders, with the knowledge and experience of a similar challenge and are well placed to offer advice.

We like businesses to think of us as their main social media outlet. Promoting their business across our extensive social media channels to provide a strong presence across Hertfordshire.

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We’re in a unique position to help our members grow. Our International Trade Programme is well placed to help develop business both at home and abroad. We have a dedicated BCC approved export team, to offer practical advice and assistance, with documentation services and signposting businesses on other matters such as international marketing and business information. They can help with the issue and certiﬁcation of documents to ensure goods and services are exported in accordance with international law and procedures. With ﬁve levels of membership, we are sure to have the package to meet your business needs. For more information on Chamber Membership, please visit www.hertschamber. com or call us on 01707 502180 or alternatively you can email us on enquiries@hertschamber.com

Meet our Team: Briege Leahy – Chief Executive Ofﬁcer Briege is committed to increasing opportunities for the Hertfordshire Chamber and keen on delivering a strong business inﬂuence on the growth of the Hertfordshire community. Connect on LinkedIn

Naomi Powell – Operations Director Naomi’s role is to help the Chamber team deliver real value and stay relevant to the evolving needs and challenges facing our Chamber community. Connect on LinkedIn Gemma Rydqvist – Head of Membership Gemma leads and manages the Membership Team, to continue the success of the Chamber, maintain a high retention and grow our membership. Connect on LinkedIn

Paulo Lopez - Membership Business Support Coordinator Paulo supports the Membership team with account management and sales, particularly in the West Herts region. Connect on LinkedIn Alison White – Head of Events and Communications Alison manages our Events and Marketing team to ensure that a wide variety of engaging events are offered across the county. Connect on LinkedIn

Donna Schultz – Key Account Manager Donna is responsible for driving sales and revenue, managing key relationships with high proﬁle Chamber members. Connect on LinkedIn Amy Rich – Membership Business Support Coordinator Amy champions our relationship with existing members, ensuring they are engaged, given a great service and see value for money. Connect on LinkedIn Mary Sykes – Corporate Relations Mary’s role is to offer support to East Hertfordshire businesses by providing advice, guidance and introductions to a variety of opportunities. Connect on LinkedIn Gillian McDowall - Membership Coordinator Gill works alongside Amy, helping with account management and supporting the membership team with renewals and retention. Connect on LinkedIn

Sarah Castleman-Turner – Marketing and Communications Executive Sarah is responsible for the marketing and communications of the Chamber. She manages the website content, social media and Inspire Magazine. Connect on LinkedIn Georgia Nicholls – Events Coordinator Georgia is involved in all stages of managing our events, from liaising with vendors, to processing bookings to assisting with marketing campaigns. Connect on LinkedIn John Woodruffe – Head of International Trade and Policy John looks after the commercial side of the Export Department ensuring all avenues of growth and revenue generation are covered. Connect on LinkedIn Frances Harris – Internal Export Manager Frances is on hand to help facilitate the requirements of Hertfordshire Exporters for their international trade success. Connect on LinkedIn

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Local Products and Services #ShopLocal Accountants the barefoot accountant ltd Accountancy services for creative businesses www.thebarefoot.accountant

Advertising My Mustard Looking for targeted, cost effective, measurable results? Look no further. My Mustard & Google AdWords, a winning combination. www.mymustard.co.uk

Arts & Culture Trestle Theatre Company Trestle Theatre Company are a mask and physical theatre company running Trestle Arts Base where they offer creative workshops and opportunities, space hire, performances and training. Trestle provides high quality, creative opportunities to everyone. Find out what their current offer is at www.trestle.org.uk/whats-on

Business Coaching Talia Zamora I help determined achievers (specialising in those with Neurodiverse families) to become the go-to business in your ﬁeld and attain the income you desire! I help to form transformational strategies which enables you to live your dream lifestyle. www.taliazamora.com

Business Consultancy Good Beyond We work with forward thinking organisations that want to lead with vision and create healthy happy workplaces that change the world. www.goodbeyond.com/talk St Albans Enterprise Agency (STANTA) Free business advice and training for Hertsbased micro businesses under 3 years old, but we specialise in helping businesses in postcode areas AL1-10 www.stanta.co.uk

Business Support Grow With Vision We help businesses do business better. From streamlining processes, to Software implementation and training, we show you ways of working faster and smarter. www.growithvision.com The St Albans Business Community Effective marketing for your business from a community you can trust www.stalbans.thebusinessescommunity.com/ work-with-us Mums UnLtd Mums UnLtd offers business support for Mums running or starting a business www.mumsunltd.co.uk Jaxstar Solutions Jaxstar Solutions is a Business Support service focused on assisting you to grow your business no matter the size. We offer several different services from a GDPR audit to a Xero Review and Fix package. For more information, get in touch today. www.jaxstarsolutions.co.uk/jaxstar-solutionsservices/ Accord HR Consulting Ltd Accord HR Consulting will help businesses to resolve their tricky people management situations. www.accordHRconsulting.co.uk Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Is legal, H&S, GDPR, HR, and pensions auto enrolment an expensive chore for you? Get it sorted in a day at no extra cost. Tap into the bargaining power of 165,000 members for key business services. We are not-for-proﬁt, all fees go to making business services accessible to all. Call Loreta on 07464 892 681 to discuss your application. Rocket Girl Coaching My life and work is dedicated to personal and organisational development to improve inclusion and understanding in society through Executive Coaching, Consultancy and Disability Equality Training. www.rocketgirlcoaching.com

Charity Harpenden Spotlight on Africa HSoA delivers projects in challenging environments, transforming the lives of some of the poorest people in Africa. www.hsoa.org.uk

Coaching Peer2Peer Peer2Peer is all about helping business leaders build the best businesses possible, but to also, making sure they enjoy the ride. We’re an inclusive group, everybody is welcome as long as you’re serious about being the best you can be and building a great business. Simply ping me an email johnacton@dpi-europe.com

Commercial Photogrpahy Striking Places Photography Professional photography for all your business photography needs. www.strikingplaces.com

Dance School Rinceoiri le Cheile Irish Dance Academy Irish dancing classes for boys & girls from 3yrs+ www.instagram.com/rcirishdance

Digital Marketing Wagada Wagada is an award-winning, results-driven digital marketing agency, working with ambitious companies to help them to reach their goals and acquire new customers through engaging and strategic marketing campaigns. www.wagada.co.uk Darcy Salinger SEO & Analytics Service to help improve visibility within search engines jon.salinger@darcysalinger.com and www.darcysalinger.com

Family Louise’s Antenatal Classes Hi I’m Lou the Midwife. I deliver antenatal and hypnobirthing classes and offer antenatal and postnatal care. www.louantenatal.com

Family & Portrait Photography Annie Griggs Photography Capturing a wide range of photography genres, including families and children, business headshots, events and product photography. All at a high professional standard. www.anniegriggs-photography.co.uk

Finance Visionary Accountants Providing professional services including Tax Returns, Tax Advice & Planning, Management Accounts, R&D, Bookkeeping, Payroll & Workplace Pensions www.visionaryaccountants.co.uk/contactus

Flooring Carpet store Quality ﬂooring at affordable rates Tothecarpetstore@aol.com

Food Dizzy Bee Kitchen Food Gorgeous Granolas www.dizzybeekitchen.co.uk Rothamsted Manor Rothamsted Manor is a Grade 1 listed manor house in the heart of Harpenden, offering afternoon tea, music concerts, weddings, parties, wakes and much more. www.rothamstedenterprises.com/events

Graphic Design The Brandit Super simple, super effective, super amazing logos, branding and communications for your business www.thebrandit.co.uk

Hair/Barbering Headcase Barbers proper haircuts in an unpretentious environment www.instagram.com/headcasestalbans

Health and Beauty Karen’s Temple Spa Spa Experiences in your own home www.templespa.com/karenfrancis Caroline k facial treatments I offer luxury skincare treatments, procedures and products. For information or to book call 07949138145

Health and Wellbeing Victoria Bell Nutrition Nutritional therapy programmes supporting women with digestive health and the perimenopause www.victoriabellnutrition.co.uk Forever Living (the Aloe Vera Co) by Nicky Packman I can advise on and supply a wide range of Aloe Vera & Beehive based products to help support skin, digestion, gut health, immunity, mobility and general wellbeing for all ages. www.thealoeveraco.shop/GkHcYFOe Moveology A wide range of treatments to help with injury recovery and ﬁtness improvements. www.moveology.co.uk

Home and Decor Verulam Tile Warehouse Ceramic, porcelian, natural stone wall and ﬂoor tiles for inside and outside. www.verulamtilewarehouse.co.uk Blissfully Organised Professional Organising www.blissfullyorganised.co.uk

Illustrator Hannah Sessions Design I offer bespoke illustrations of your house/ school/ favourite place. Makes a great gift and now have some packages to choose from. Get in touch. www.facebook.com/hannahsessionsdesign

Insurance Broker EIC Insurance Services Limited We help business owners sleep at night by protecting the things they care about www.eicinsurance.co.uk

Language Services Atlas Translations We offer personal, certiﬁed and professional language services. A world-class, ISO 9001 and ISO 17100 certiﬁed translations agency. www.atlas-translations.co.uk

Marketing

Popdance Learn fun dance routines to pop music from the 80s, 90s, 00 and current pop track - for all ages and abilities www.popdance.co.uk

Amber Mountain Marketing Cost Effective Marketing Communications Book a free power hour too boost your marketing here; www.ambermountainmarketing.co.uk/ contact

Positive Reflex Therapy I offer deeply relaxing, rejuvenating and destressing Reflexology and Reiki treatments in the comfort of your own home or workplace. www.positivereflextherapy.co.uk

Joolz Joseph Email Marketing Services & Training. Marketing Motivation and Mentoring for small businesses. Find out more at JoolzJoseph.com www.joolzjoseph.com

Music Kick Pistol Show your support for local indie band, Kick Pistol, by following them on Instagram www.instagram.com/kickpistol

Networking The Business Network South Herts Visit us to enjoy networking with likeminded people and an educational seminar www.business-network-south-herts.co.uk/ events-seminars The Athena Network Bedfordshire & St Albans Business Networking and Development Club for Women in Business www.theathenanetwork.com/katecherry or email me at kate.cherry@theathenanetwork.com Women In Business Network Connections, Support, Business Potential for Women In Business through networking www.wibn.co.uk

Network and Internet Countriﬁ Networks We provide advice, guidance and solutions for improving your internet and wireless coverage around your home or business. We also offer a range of CCTV and Alarm solutions. www.Facebook.com/CountriﬁNetworks

Optometrist EYES on St Albans We ROCK your new eyewear..! www.eyesonstalbans.com

Painters and Decorators St Albans Decor Kitchen Cabinet Painters + Renovations Painting and Decorating www.stalbansdecor.co.uk

Performing Arts School Brilliant Theatre Arts We are youth theatre and drama school combined offering training through performance. Aimed at young performers aged 7 - 21 who have a serious interest in performing www.brillianttheatrearts.co.uk

Print Macpro Design & Print Ltd. Providing professional artwork, design and print to local SME’s. Visit our website for more information www.macprodp.com

Photography Stephanie Belton Photography Portrait photography for families and businesses www.stephaniebelton.com Immersive Walkthroughs We create unique 3D virtual tours to help you promote your business www.immersivewalkthroughs.com/tourexamples

Retail Atelier Ferrari Monti ladies made to measure www.ferrarimonti.com Christopher Place Shopping Centre Shopping centre with new retailers and restaurants www.christopher-place.co.uk Dress Up & Dance Dancewear, dance shoes, gymnastics clothing, fancy dress costumes for sale and hire, accessories and costume make up www.dressupanddance.com Floral City Goodbye Flowers, Floral Gifts and Flower Subscriptions www.ﬂoralcity.co.uk

Retail Lou Murphy Styles Styling and shopping with French fashions from Captain Tortue www.facebook.com/ groups/1620092258294835 Flagship Wines A great range of delicious wines, Champagnes, Ports, Spirits and craft beers www.ﬂagshipwines.co.uk, Flagship Wines on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook

Senior Care & Dementia Care Tea & Memories Reminiscence Vintage Tea Party Activity for Seniors. Suitable for groups in care homes, community care venues, or private homes. Ideal for celebrations. Email terri@teaandmemories.co.uk Tel: 07505 141707

Telecommunications Trio Telecom Trio Telecom are rate 5* on Google and provide local businesses with Voice over IP phone systems, broadband and ethernet connectivity, and call answering and virtual numbers. www.triotelecom.co.uk/contact-us VOIspeed Ltd VOIspeed offers a fantastic business phone system with collaborative tools ideal for hybrid working that can be used anywhere on any device. www.voispeed.co.uk

Video Production Yellow Lizard Media Professional video production for a range of industries, services and events www.yellowlizardmedia.co.uk

Web Design Gold Nugget Designs Bespoke WordPress websites that get your business seen! www.goldnuggetdesigns.co.uk/websiteworksheet

NO NONSENSE NO DRAMA NO FAFF

GRAPHIC DESIGN & COMMS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

LOCAL PRODUCTS Check out these gorgeous products available from local businesses Anna Banana Yoga Join me for a simple, gentle and tailored introduction to yoga, where you choose the best options for your unique body, and I support you every step of the way. £55 for this 5 week course. Find out more and book here: www. annabananayoga.com/classes Dizzy Bee Pecan and Quinoa vegan granola Bursting with seeds , nuts wholegrains -Sweetened lightly with maple and baked with the gorgeous Chiltern cold pressed Rapeseed oil - £5.90 Order yours at: www.dizzybeekitchen.co.uk/shop/ gluten-free-pecan-quinoa-granola

Flagship Wines Calmel & Joseph Villa Blanche Sauvignon Blanc and Calmel & Joseph Villa Blanche Grenache Rose from the Languedoc Roussillon region in the South of France They are lovely refreshing organic wines: ideal for summer drinking and with food… barbecues, salads etc Price - £11.60 each per bottle They are available online from www.ﬂagshipwines.co.uk or visit us at our shop at 417 Hatﬁeld Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 0XP

The Space Mask from Eve and Adam - Within minutes of putting on your Spacemask you will feel it warm up and start to mellow your tired eyes and face. The soft jasmine smell will help to transport you away. £15 for box of 5 www.eveand-adam. com/product/ spacemasksoriginal-box-of-5

Veggie Sushi Selection - from Itsu - new to St Peter’s Street - www. itsu.com/menu/sushi/veggie-sushicollection

Gift Vouchers can be used as payment for cinema tickets both online and in-person and for refreshments sold in The Odyssey Cinema, St Albans.

Pivotal, by local author, Nikki Vallance, is a split-narrative, relationship mystery portraying the impact of a lifechanging moment on four women with seemingly unconnected lives - £6.55 available on Amazon The Little Book of Amazing Businesses written by local businesses telling the stories of how they started and what life is like as a business owner in St Albans £11.95 - available via the TBC shop here -

stalbans. thebusinessescommunity.com/ product/the-little-book-of-amazingbusiness-stories/

Do you have a product or service to offer in St Albans that you would like to feature in an issue of Inform Magazine? • • • • •

Simply send us: an image of the product or service a simple sentence about it how much it is a link to where people can buy/order from you

That’s it - we want to make #ShopLocal as easy as possible for people in St Albans Send your info to - stalbans@thebusinessescommunity.com

“The names Bond. James Bond.” Join us for an evening of glitz and glamour at our highly anticipated Bond themed charity dinner gala at the stunning grounds of St Michael’s Manor in St Albans.

“In 2019 our Medieval Murder Mystery event raised £6,200! This fund enables us to provide our home-visiting service for up to ﬁve families who going through difﬁcult times.” This glamorous event will consist of suited and gowned guests, served with a delicious 3-course meal whilst being entertained by a live band. There will be casino and an auction with some fantastic donations that CANNOT BE MISSED!

Last year we had to postpone the event that led us to missing up to an estimated £7K of fundraising.

“My volunteer supported me through my journey of ﬁnding a new home for my family and helped build me up when I was too hard on myself. I feel my well-being has improved and have found that I am quite resilient. No matter what life throws at me I have managed to ﬁnd a way of getting through it. I no longer feel so sad or lonely and now full of hope.”

Home-Start are a local family charity that offers emotional and practical support to parents who are struggling with dayto-day life. This may be because they have additional challenges such as a long-term illness, Save the date, disability, mental health Friday 19th November, or are feeling isolated and and join us for a night to lonely. remember. Trained family mentors visit families to help them develop the skills, conﬁdence and strength they need to be there for their children, and be the best parents they can be.

“Don’t think, just let it happen.” www.home-startherts.org.uk

News Round Up Automobile Redbourn Auto Solutions - Your local, friendly garage looking after you, and your car. With over 40 years experience, we look after all of your car needs whether regular SERVICING, a complex REPAIR, TYRES, DIAGNOSTICS, AIR CON SERVICING, etc. Our highly qualified technicians are waiting to use their skills to exceed your expectations. We work on all makes and models from horseboxes and transits to Ferrari and Aston Martin. with free collection and delivery or courtesy cars for your convenience. We are recognised by Trading Standards, Which? and Trust My Garage for our high standards. We are also now open for MOT TESTING!!! We also have extensive knowledge and experience in our CAR SALES department for new, nearly new and used vehicles from first time cars and family 7 seaters, to executive and light commercials. Pop in for an easy and hassle free purchase. For more information, find us here: www.RedbournAutoSolutions. com OR call us on 01582 679300 Main dealer quality and standards at independent prices..... why go anywhere else?!

Business Services Peer2Peer - Do you want to build the best business possible? It takes just 4 hours a month of your valuable time to think beyond the here and now and focus on the where, when and how. Where should you take your business? What’s the optimum timeline? and How are you going to get there. Contact John Acton now to hear more about how Peer2Peer is helping leaders transform their businesses johnacton@dpi-europe.com Hertfordshire businesses that have struggled to cope during the pandemic have been given over 1,000 hours of free and confidential 1-2-1 business support through the Volunteer Business Support Scheme (VBSS), which has now been extended until the end of 2021. The scheme has supported over 270 local businesses to date and was set up by Hertfordshire Growth Hub, in partnership with the University of Hertfordshire, as part of the £3.28m business support package launched by Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in response to Covid-19. Find out how businesses like Elsa Next Generation, founded by Jane Shipley, benefitted from the scheme. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3mgFop5 My Mustard ® - Google Ads aficionados, ppc fanatics and Hertfordshire’s friendliest Google Premier Partner, specialising in pay per click and social media advertising for businesses. Get in touch today www.mymustard.co.uk

Macpro - As face to face meetings return, make sure you are fully prepared with business cards to hand! At Macpro Design & Print we can help with the design or printing of your cards. For more information please contact us on info@ macprodp.com or call 01727 850771

The Brandit - We love all things branding. From brand new logos, to brand refreshes, to creative concepts, to all you need to communicate with your customers. Fresh, exciting ideas to really bring your business to life. Book a call with us at info@thebrandit.co.uk or visit our website at www.thebrandit.co.uk

Events Rinceoiri Le Cheile Irish Dance Academy - JUMP ‘N’ JIG IRISH DANCE CLASSES with Rinceoiri Le Cheile Irish Dance Academy. We are so excited to announce that we are starting preschool classes for 2-5 years in September. This is a preschool programme designed speciﬁcally for this age range. Contact us at RCirishdance@outlook.com to ﬁnd out more or to book a space for your child. St Albans Chamber of Commerce - Last chance to submit your nominations for the 2021 St Albans Chamber of Commerce Community Business Awards! Glittering ceremony at Tewin Bury Farm on 11 November, visit www.stalbanschamber.co.uk for more information. Redbourn Classic Car Show - Saturday 4 September. Noon til 5pm We look forward to seeing you at the 4th \Redbourn Classics\ on Saturday 4 September 2021 Noon-5pm. We are planning a great day for the whole family; with 300 classic cars, bikes, trucks and tractors. In addition there will be live music by The Barn-ettes and Missing the Ferry, delicious street food, a licensed bar, village stalls, children’s funfair and a miniature steam railway. Classic vehicle tickets are now available please go to the \Tickets\ page on this website for details- a classic vehicle ticket gives entry for the vehicle and all occupants. There will also be supercars at the Museum. The Show will be open to the public, no need to prebook, but we welcome donations for our local charities at the gates on the day - suggested donation £2 per person/£5 per family Saturday 4 September. Noon til 5pm

Family Dance2Gether - Our kids ‘Strictly’ classes are returning Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th September. All children 5yrs welcome, with a free trial on these dates at the beginning of term! www.Dance2gether.co.uk louantenatal - I teach face-to-face antenatal and hypnobirthing classes in the comfort of your own home! Louise’s Antenatal Classes - www.louantenatal.com

Finance Visionary Accountants - Provide high quality accountancy, tax & monthly management information to small & medium sized business owners. Follow the link to ﬁnd out more and arrange your free initial consultation: www. visionaryaccountants.co.uk/about-visionary-accountants

Hair and Beauty Headcase Barbers - 20% off in September at Headcase Barbers on Holywell Hill Mention this offer at the till Hair & Beauty

Health and Wellness Atlas Translations - Strapless, plunge, maternity…you name it! We have a permanent Bra Recycling Bin for all your unwanted and unloved bras, which helps to raise money for the brilliant charity, Against Breast Cancer. So, pop in and drop off those old bras! www.atlas-translations.co.uk/new-ofﬁce-new-bra-bank/Atlas Translations Moveology - New team member announcement! Jasmine Fisher is our new Osteopath at Moveology. Please email booking@moveology.co.uk to book. 10% off usual charge of £60 for initial consultation and treatment. Please quote ‘SAB’.

Music and Entertainment Popdance - Popdance parties are back! Yay - you can now book a party for your children, for yourself, for an anniversary, a hen do, a wedding dance or perhaps a corporate teambuilding event to get your team back together - ﬁnd out more about our amazing paaaartaaays here www.popdance.co.uk/parties Kick Pistol - Look out for new releases from local band, Kick Pistol, this year - give them a follow on instagram @kickpistol

Networking The Athena Network - Get your networking MOJO back for September! If you are a woman in business in the local area, why not book to attend one of our Athena meetings in September? Now remaining virtual, some a get a taster, learn, connect and inspire together - email me to attend at kate.cherry@theathenanetwork.com

Retail Lou Murphy Styles - Shop the New Collections from French fashion brand ‘Captain Tortue’ with Lou Murphy Styles. Book your shopping experience with a couple of friends or treat yourself to your own personal shopping appointment by contacting Lou on 07889 724299 (no charge for shopping experiences/personal shopping).

If you have news you would like to share with thousands of people across St Albans - ﬁnd out more about how you can do this here

The Woo Hoos Are Back! But this time with a difference!!!!! SAVE THE DATE - Thursday 2nd December All will be revealed!!

FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS LAUNCH INTERNATIONAL WOMEN IN MID-LIFE DAY AND EXPO TO CHANGE THE PERCEPTION OF OLDER WOMEN IN BUSINESS AND SOCIETY IN GENERAL A group of successful female entrepreneurs have announced the launch of International Women in Midlife Day and annual Expo this October 21st. The day is set to become an important date for the calendar as this annual and unique event is launched to support and empower women in business over the age of 40. The Expo is a one-day virtual event designed specifically for women over 40 who need inspiration, guidance and business services to find the perfect career match or business support and advice. The day will help women to find their passion, explore opportunities and become financially self-sufficient and it will be held on International Women in Mid-life Day.

The initial concept came from Business Mentor, Moira Doherty (63) who is a huge campaigner for support and recognition of ‘Women in Mid-life’ and this has evolved into the creation of the international awareness day and Expo. As Moira explains: “There is nothing out there for women who are over 40. For so many they feel that their role is wife, mother, daughter, sister, granny, carer rather than independent businesswoman. They don’t feel they have anything to contribute to society and in particular to the business world.” Along with Denise Ferguson (40), Sharon Murray (53) and Nicola Toner (50) who are all running successful businesses, these four amazing women are passionate about inspiring and

empowering females in mid-life to take control, make a difference in society and create a modern image of what “midlife” really stands for. Moira added, “Creating a modern cultural image for women in Mid-life is good for society, good for the economy and good for women of all ages.” Moira has been an entrepreneur for many years, has been campaigning and supporting female entrepreneurs in their ‘mid-life’ to become successful businesswomen and gain ﬁnancial freedom and security for their futures. She is the founder of the WOWS Collective (Wonderful Older Women Succeeding) and is passionate about leaving a legacy that will support women to create the life they desire and one that makes them feel valued for years to come. She knew she couldn’t achieve her goals and dreams alone and so enlisted the help of three of her peers - Denise, Sharon and Nicola - to form “The 206 Group Limited” – a company which will facilitate “International Women in Mid-Life Day” each year, along with the set-up of various charitable, enterprise and scholarship schemes especially designed to assist and support women over 40 to become driven, empowered and determined entrepreneurs. Denise is a bold, funny, Commercial Property Surveyor, who has been running her own practice in St Albans for almost ten years negotiating leases for salon owners, alongside advising the British Government on their property portfolio.

single mum of two and having had debt issues, she ﬁnally followed her dream of running her own business and is now the founder of the LinkedIn Revolution. She coaches entrepreneurs, freelancers and small business owners on how to attract clients on LinkedIn with her own zany and witty style. Nicola is a Business Planning Expert, Crowdfunding Mentor and certiﬁed Project Manager. She has a long history of business planning and has worked for huge corporations and successfully managed many clients including John Lewis, RoadChef and BHS since becoming self-employed at 38. Now 50, Nicola is fortunate enough to live in the beautiful province of Granada in Spain.

To ﬁnd out more about the expo and to register to reserve your spot please visit – www.midlifewomeninbusiness.co.uk

or email info@midlifewomeninbusiness.co.uk

Sharon lives in Northern Ireland and started her Virtual Assistant business two years ago at the age of 51. As a

10 Things To Look For When Booking Your Childs Birthday Party We all love a good party and we want our kids to have the best time ever – so what should we be looking for when thinking about what to book for the big day?

Here’s our essential 10: 1. Ask your child what kind of party they want! We know it’s an obvious one, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t actually sit down with their child and look at various ideas. Do they want the same party that their friend had? Do they want a party at home? Do they want to do something with a small groups of friends? Do they want to invite the whole class?

2. Look at budgets Do you have a budget? There’s usually a larger budget if it’s just a few friends, whereas incorporating the whole class can turn out costly if you get carried away.

3. Search on the internet A lot of the time, kids do tend to know what they want and they’ve usually been to someone else’s party that they enjoyed and they want the same. But if you don’t have a trusted recommendation, then it’s worth having a google to see what’s out there for you. Why not try NetMums too and also asking the question in parent or mums facebook groups – you usually get great recommendations that way too.

4. Check out their website Again, very obvious, but do have a route around the websites of companies that you’ve found, or that have been recommended to you. Do they look professional? Do they tell you about their staff? Are they qualiﬁed and experienced? Are they all DBS checked? Do they have public liability insurance? Is it clear what their party package is, what you will get and how much it costs? Do they have testimonials on their website?

5. Get in touch with the company Phone calls are always the best – it enables you to speak directly to the company, get a vibe for what they are like, you can ask lots of questions and ﬁnd out if you think it’s right for your child.

6. Check them out on social media Have a look at their facebook page, their twitter account – are they active on there? Do you like their vibe? Personality? Are their customers talking about them on social media? Good feedback?

7. Check out their Terms and Conditions What happens if your child is ill on the day of their party? What happens if your party organisers are ill or stuck in trafﬁc? Read the smallprint and make sure you are happy with it and that the company has back up systems in place.

8. Book your party If you are happy with everything, book your party and make sure you get sent a booking conﬁrmation – detailing everything about the party, i.e. where it is, when, what it consists of, what you have been promised, and that your payment has been received.

9. Get in touch again nearer the date of your party If the company do not get in touch with you again nearer the date of your party to conﬁrm everything is ok, give them a call or an email just to double check everything – you don’t want to be left on the big day with no party organiser due to miscommunication. All good companies will get in touch with you to conﬁrm everything again nearer your party.

10. Give feedback Most good companies will ask for feedback on the party, to ﬁnd out whether you, your child and their guests had a good time. Good companies value honest feedback so it’s great to let them know what you enjoyed about it and also whether you have any concerns or tips on what could be improved upon to make it an even better party.

11. Sit back and relax – you’ve partied! If you would like to ﬁnd out more about Popdance parties – do take a look HERE

ROTHAMSTED MANOR THROWS DOORS OPEN FOR ANNUAL HERITAGE OPEN DAYS FESTIVAL

Rothamsted, Harpenden, August 2021 – Rothamsted Manor is once again taking part in the annual Heritage Open Days – England’s largest festival of history and culture. Every September thousands of venues across England organise events to celebrate our fantastic history and culture. It’s everyone’s chance to see hidden places all of which are FREE to explore. Rothamsted Manor is a stunningly beautiful Grade I listed manor house, set in acres of Hertfordshire woodland with beautiful surrounding gardens. Known as Hertfordshire’s hidden gem, the Manor sits in the historically signiﬁcant Rothamsted Estate, home to some of the world’s oldest and most important agricultural research work.

This year the theme of the festival is ‘Edible England’ and the folks at Rothamsted know a thing or two about food production. Guests can look forward to a number of fun food activities, including a ‘Crimes against Crops’ trail where guests are invited to solve a crime wave that is sweeping our farmers’ ﬁelds; learn how to make a mould biodome with bread; and taste ‘Claret Cup’ the drink of choice for visitors to the Manor in the 1800’s. One of the highlights of the house is the extensive murals from the 1500’s which are usually hidden under wooden panelling to prevent damage, but will this year be uncovered for all to see. Guests can also look forward to self-guided house and garden tours, and cream teas in the historic library (booking required).

There are further activities in the grounds too, including scavenger hunts, face painting, lawn games, rock painting, and the very popular ‘Make your own Bee Hotel’. This year, there are 5 open days held between 11th-19th September, one of which is a ‘quieter day’ for those that prefer to avoid the crowds and children’s activities. Nicole Sadd, CEO of Rothamsted Enterprises says: “We are absolutely delighted to once again be part of Heritage Open Days. The Manor has a rich and enormously signiﬁcant history, and one which links directly to the agricultural research that takes place on our estate today. We are always delighted to share it with our community. This year’s event is particularly enjoyable for us because it is all about food and so is an ideal opportunity for us to share the science and research of Rothamsted.”

Open dates: Saturday, September 11th, 10am – 5pm Sunday, September 12th, 10am – 5pm Tuesday, September 14th, 10am – 5pm (quiet day, no children’s activities, just house tours and cream teas) Saturday, September 18th, 10am – 5pm Sunday, September 19th, 10am – 5pm Booking link: www.rothamstedenterprises. com