With any new business it’s interesting to see how the month ahead pans out.
We knew that August would be a little bit of a write-off in terms of getting the most work done (given that we had holidays and the kids off school), but we didn’t realise how much it would impact our working weeks!
So we live and learn – and will know to plan ahead for most eventualities! Of course, as our children get older and more independent, this will get easier.
Despite juggling childcare, holidays, work and everything else, the magazine has continued to go from strength to strength and we’ve had a record number of enquiries coming in, along with letters of support and messages asking us to cover news. And the craziness shows no sign of abating for September.
On top of the usual workload of writing up copy, delivering magazines, designing the magazine updating the website and social media posts and designing adverts, we’ve also been busy planning for the future. We have a few opportunities in the pipeline so we’re keen to explore what we can do – and make the most of our combined skills.
We’ve also been doing our bit for the local community. Lauretta helped raise money for The Chartwell Cancer Trust (and is currently featured in the charity’s latest FUNdraising magazine), while Nicky has volunteered her time and skills to help The Primrose Centre come up with a new design for their leaflet.
New features & introductions
This month we introduced a ‘Write It, Say It, Message It’ page in Life In Orpington and had a great response with plenty of comments, letters, text messages and emails.
Our ‘Community Noticeboard’ continues to go from strength to strength – there’s been talk of expanding this section as it’s so popular, but we’d have to look at increasing the pagination of the magazine if we do so which means spending more money – not a decision to be taken lightly given that most of our pages in the magazine are editorial – which is what our readers love.
In terms of new advertisers for August, we’d like to say a huge welcome to MIYU Boutique Salon, 7 Hotel Diner, Polhill Business Centre, Remedial Pilates, Williams, Holy Innocents School, Baby Vue and Speedy Cars.
Petts Wood In Bloom!
Last but not least, we covered news of Petts Wood In Bloom in our August issue, where train station worker, Michael Gould, had been hard at work developing the station garden over several years.
We’re delighted to report that Michael’s hard work paid off and Petts Wood won the coveted Southeastern In Bloom competition!
Michael and his team held a special party at the station recently to celebrate and we’re delighted to report that the station has had plenty of support on social media. If you haven’t seen the garden – do pop by for a visit. It’s located behind the train station, adjacent to Speedy Cars’ office in Petts Wood.
Meanwhile, If you’d like to get in touch – maybe with a suggestion, some news or information on a local event – or just to respond to something you’ve seen in the magazine, please feel free to email us – we’d love to hear from you!