Ipswich entrepreneurs with exciting ideas

Philippa Branson Bottrell of Deli-cias with her husband Jaime. (Image: Archant)

Many a successful business has started from a simple idea, and been developed at home - in the garage or perhaps in the kitchen.

These days it can be possble to develop a new business, from little more than a laptop, a specialist interest, and that great idea, of course.

Then comes the hard work, turning it into reality.

There were lots of interesting and unusual ideas on display at the Eastern Enterprise Hub, on Tuesday, when the latest group of Ipswich Entrepreneurs graduated.

There was an enormous range, from photography and film making, to glass art making to authentic Spanish food, and from fitness classes (Pilates) to designing crosswords.

For some it is a change of direction, aiming to launch out on their own, for others it is a chance to start something fresh after taking a break to have children.

This course was specifically for Ipswich people, and sponsored by Ipswich Borough Council.

Council leader David Ellesmere said it was important to encourage new small businesses, which could grow and beome the employers of tomorrow.

“I am blown away by the quality of the products and the initiatives behind these businesses.

“Private enterprise small businesses are more than 99% of the private business in Britain.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of the private economy. Ipswich is a really good place for businesses to thrive; that is why we have been pleased to sponsor this programme.”

He joked that when they became successful they should continue to make Ipswich their home, and grow here.

Each graduate was give a few minutes to “sell” their business to the guests, and they all paid tribute to the course, and the support they had received from other members of the group as a support network.

Here are some of the graduates.

Artist and glassmaker Emma Garnham studied glassmaking at Sunderland University, Now back home in Ipswich she has a small kiln in her shed and a workshop in the house.

She draws her own designs and makes fine art pieces, jewellery and bespoke houseware items, often used as wedding gifts. “Everything is handmade and designed individually,” she said.

Film maker Tom Rout is making videos for bands, marketing and for events. “Whatever it is, it has got to be gorgeous,” he said.

Philippa Branson Botrrell, runs Deli-cias - the authentic taste of Spain, with husband Jaime.

Philippa was born in England, and grew up in Spain, and the family have been in Ipswich for five years. The catering business had started from cooking for family and friends, she said.

“Now we want to grow and share it with more people.”

For Tim King this course marks a new direction.

Tim,54, retired early after a career in technoloogy, and has always loved the intellectual challenge of crossroads.

“I thought I would try to turn my hobby into a small business,” he said, “I love doing it so much.”

His business is called Encota and he has already had crossword puzzles published in national newspapers and magazines.

Ipswich mum Amanda Crichton is developing a new sportswear brand, especially for women, called Decorus.

“We are getting samples made and aim to launch in the summer,” she said.

Stuart Atkinson, has a new idea for a marketing agency, using the internet and specialists from around the world, working together.

“It is known as Suffolk Rocks,” he said.

The graduating Ipswich entrepreneuurs included;

Suzanne Franks, graphic designer and illustrator, Marianne Muir personal coaching and development, Joanne Powley, pilates for older people, Paul Duffy photography on motivational cards, Lesley Darling, personal growth coaching, Tim King - Encota specialist crosswords, Tom Rout. freelance film and video maker, Lucy Taylor photographer, Caroline O’Donoghue, fresh fruit sauces, Amanda Crichton sportswear clothing for women, Katherine Cresswell events and wedding planning, Emma Louise Garnham glass artist and maker, Philippa Branson Bottrell, authentic Spanish food, Stuart Atkingson, virtual marketing agency.