Meet the Member: Helen Bridge Consultancy

Meet our member Helen from Helen Bridge Consultancy. She tells us more about how she got started, shares her highlights & challenges of running her own business, and answers our Local Biz Quickfire.

Briefly tell us a bit about yourself and what your business offers.

I live in Aston Clinton with my husband and mini-labradoodle Purdey. I work as a freelance retail project manager, helping brands design and build in-store experiences. This can be anything from a small table display through to building an entire shop. I love seeing a project from beginning to end, and that I can physically see and touch the displays I create.

How and why did your business get started?

I worked full time in-house for about 9 years, and realised the work is well-suited to freelance life. I set-up as a limited company 11 years ago and have never looked back. I love the flexibility and variety. There’s no such thing as a standard week, but on different weekdays I can go from meetings in London, to walking in our beautiful countryside, to an early morning unpacking boxes in a new store, to picking up my nephews from school.

What’s been your biggest highlight of running your business?

There are 2 projects that I am especially proud of … firstly, I project managed the refurb of a spa in London for the skincare brand ELEMIS. This was a huge build with treatment rooms, a VIP suite and a shop – my literal blood, swear and tears are embedded in that building! Secondly, I created a window display for Selfridges at Christmas, which was a real pinch-me moment.

What’s been your biggest challenge?

The impossible balance between having enough work and having too much! Some months are naturally quieter than others and even after all these years, I have to remind myself not to panic and know that it will pick up again. Also, when it’s busy (hello Christmas planning in the summer), accept that it’s OK to put the fun stuff on pause for a bit.

What are your plans for the future for your business?

I’m currently working with 3 different fabulous fragrance brands and I’m really enjoying the range of projects. I’m lucky to work with some fantastic people and so long may that continue!

What’s the best thing about being a member of Chiltern Biz Collective?

Hands-down the best thing is the community. I moved to Bucks 4 years ago without knowing anyone locally and have loved meeting like-minded people through the events. I’ve made proper friends and will forever be grateful to Corinne for creating the Collective.

How can people work with you and where can we find you?

Please have a look at my website for more information – www.HelenBridgeConsultancy.com

Local Biz Quick Fire!

Favourite local place to eat & drink?

Cafe 108 for cake and Mela for the best Indian.

Favourite local retailer (online or bricks & mortar)?

Maggie J is always a winner for gifts (for others and for myself!).

Favourite local day out?

Wendover Woods is our happy place.

Shoutout to 3 local businesses who you love.

Zumba Zone with Nikki – dancing is the highlight of my week
Clips Dog Grooming – only the best for Purdey
PE Mead farmshop – love a walk around the reservoir and brunch in the cafe

Also a shout-out to national charity Pets as Therapy – Purdey is a registered therapy dog and we enjoy regularly visiting Aston Clinton School to read with the children. It is very rewarding, helping build confidence and reading skills.