Monday 31 October 2011

Business Mums Unite Conference 2011

Sometimes we never know who may pop up in our lives again or when we meet someone how our paths may cross somewhere down the line. 

Way back in early February (in what feels like a different lifetime) I was invited to be keynote speaker at the Business Mums Unite conference in Nottingham on 19th October. Sometimes as a speaker it can take several years for someone to have an opportunity for you. The organiser, Charlotte Pearson, had met me not long after I first started the speaking circuit when I was also juggling a sales job as a Virgin Vie cosmetic and jewellery consultant. I had met her then husband at a networking event and I had taken my wares to their home. I used to make the somewhat pathetic pun that 'I was a Virgin due to postnatal depression' and explained that my book was the reason I had left teaching but was also working up to being a full-time speaker and writer. Hence it gave me the opportunity at the parties I did to introduce the 'other side' of me. I did enjoy my time with Virgin Vie and it has ultimately lead to where I am now!

So getting Charlotte's request was brilliant - thank you so much! Her version of events is here.

Of course when I agreed to be at this event Clive was still alive. I remember the day I got the email and we'd chatted about it. So my original story has grown since then! I am very conscious that postnatal depression and bereavement are not exactly sexy or normally inspiring topics! Yet the feedback I received on the day said I was. For example, read Georgina's account here.

Charlotte and I
You can see more of Emma's photos of the event here.

I was delighted to meet Karen and her husband from Rhythm of your Choice.  who provide some greats acts for events.

There were some stunning pictures from Jacques Designs - I could have spent a fortune!

I could have booked some great holidays from Beside the Sea and was thrilled to win some jewellery from The Light Direction. 

It was good to speak to Craig and his colleagues from Affari magazine - an on-line version for Nottingham Business Women.

Sara Meredith, whose daughter Livvy sadly died in 2008, has set up a charity to bring smiles to other disabled youngsters. We chatted for a while and she told me about Livvy's Smile and her blog Walking with Angels. She has blogged about the conference - Sara is an incredible lady who inspires others.

I'd like to especially dedicate this to her ..



I also had the opportunity to speak to others who were presenting and several of the delegates who shared some of their stories with me. I find this to be one of the best aspects of what I do.

I thoroughly enjoyed the day and was delighted that Charlotte invited me. I do hope she puts the day on again next year - keep us posted!

Whilst I was in Nottingham I had the pleasure to dine at two restaurants I'd recommend - The Riverbank - fabulous food and service; and Peachy Keens, world buffet - great when you can't decide what to have!

Just a reminder - my next talk is on Monday 7th November at The Midland Hotel in Bradford - open to all.
See the details here

So who have you not been in touch with for years? Is there something you could ask them to be involved with you now?

Go on - make their day, just as Charlotte did mine!

Elaine x

www.hanzak.com

2 comments:

Sara said...

What can I say but thank you for your lovely words. As I said in my blog post I was inspired by your talk. You moved me more than you know. I will be playing your song the next week as we head towards the third anniversary of Livvys death but as I play it i shall have the smile on my face as I try to live the life she would wish for me.

I really hope to get to meet you again soon.

Sara

Charlotte said...

Thanks Elaine - was so great to see you again. You were a wonderful part of the day and a am thrilled you stayed all day to talk to others .

Thank you and lots of love xxx