What our Members Say

WiRE members share their experience...

Barbara Poisson

“Pennine Lavender has grown from being a hobby into a viable family business selling globally. From my first WiRE conference I was inspired by the stories of ordinary women doing extraordinary things. WiRE has been a continuing support with advice, help and a genuine understanding of women's trials and triumphs.” Barbara Poisson, Pennine Lavender South Yorkshire

“I have attended several networking events in my area to get an idea of who and what is available in North Yorkshire and have to say that WiRE beats the rest hands down! The other networking events, that were not Women only were quite formal, sales orientated and not a particularly friendly environment for a new kid on the block. I look forward to attending WiRE events in North Yorkshire and York for many years to come. Thank you” Jennifer Feltham, Personal Coach North Yorkshire

“Just renewed my WIRE membership - I thought I could manage without you guys, and here I am about a month after my subscription ran out - back in the fold! I had thought that the subs would be £40 I could save, in a time of poor business as it is - but it was when I was scratching my head thinking what the next great no-cost marketing move could be, that I realised I would have access to so much more information with you guys and that, the money is nothing compared to the benefits you share! So, I'm glad to be back!” Pennie Barker, Pretty Creative at Hawthorn Lane Derbyshire

“Thank you for all of your time and efforts! I am so pleased with the appearance of both the newsletter mention and Rural Success Story. Hopefully this will bring lots of new visitors and shoppers to our site. Please know that I never take your assistance and support for granted.” Heléne Leichter-Saxby, Countryside Connection and Once Upon a Pine North Yorkshire

“Just wanted to drop you a line to say how great yesterday was and how much I enjoyed the event. The staff at the venue were lovely and the food was great. Both speakers - Sue, Sue Tonks and Caroline - were fabulous. I found the workshops a great taster introduction and will be looking at taking my skill levels online to the next level!” Jules Wyman, Inspirational Speaker & Confidence Coach North Yorkshire

Lucy Scott Paul

“Thank you for the great day yesterday. It was just what I needed after the slow, cold month of January to get me motivated and spurred on. It was so nice to meet so many new members of WiRE but even better to see some of the faces that I’ve met on so many great occasions since I joined WiRE six years ago. Sue Tonks was as great as ever, offering sound advice. But the best workshop award has to go to Anna Farmery. She delivered the invaluable information in a clear and concise way, full of humour and I can’t wait to go to her session in York in March. Thanks to you all at head office for organising it, it was a brilliant day and I’ve come away with loads of ideas and things to do on my to-do list! Lucy Scott Paul, Bah Humbugs North Yorkshire

“As a start up WiRE has been fantastically supportive and I know it will continue to do so going forward for me. Our Network Leader is outstanding; she puts so much effort in to make out meetings go with a fizz.” Jane O’Riordan, Personalised Towels and Gifts Suffolk

“I am on a high and its all down to WiRE! I have always wanted to work for myself but never had that light bulb moment…well not until I went on the WiRE open doors course. I went on the 3 day Open Doors course in Nov 2008. By the end of day one I was convinced I definitely wanted to setup my own business. By the end of day two I had come up with my idea and by the end of day three I had written my business plan and I was on my way to my first sale. Well that first sale or should I say sales has now happened in the WiRE marquee at the Burwarton show. My website will be up and running in September 2009 and is looking great. Thanks WiRE team you are brilliant.” Barbara Steadman Another Gorgeous Day Shropshire

Maggie Hollinshead“Of all the conferences I've ever been to (including those during my years of 'real' work in HR) I would say this was the most authentic. Strange word to use, but it sums up my impressions - that there was no hype, no 'padding' with irrelevant sessions and tedious addresses, and a very clear impression that every aspect of the conference had been carefully targeted to deliver exactly what the delegates most needed. I'm the world's worst networker, but found myself drawn into conversation with so many interesting people, and I made some really useful contacts.” Katie Carr, Avon Ancestry Worcestershire

“Anna Farmery is absolutely fantastic and inspired me to set up my Blog immediately.” Maggie Hollinshead, The Coachman’s House Studio Gallery Shropshire

“I was so inspired with the conference I came home and discovered how to edit my profile and did so. I have had two enquires since.” Julia Pitkin, Artisans in the Hills Shropshire

“I would like to thank you all at WiRE for what I believe to have been a fantastic conference yesterday! It is my first conference and I really enjoyed it! I met up with many familiar faces which was lovely and met many new ones I hope to see again! The speakers and workshops were very inspirational and useful! The day was very organised and easy to follow and there were plenty of opportunities to network, chat to, share details and experiences with people. It was also great to meet members of the WiRE team who I hadn't previously met, although I am sorry I didn't get to meet all of you! Plenty more chances I am sure! Thank you for all your efforts and in making me feel very welcome!” Nicola Brown, In the shed Shropshire

"I would just like to say a big thank you for the fantastic day I had yesterday at my first Wire conference. I only joined a couple of days earlier and decided to drive the 2 1/2hrs to Harper to experience this event. Well it was definitely time and money well spent. You all made me feel so welcome and I received so much information and confidence from the speakers and the other Wire members I met. We are farmers by trade and we are looking at diversifying and I am now really excited about our new venture." Caroline Howard, Nottinghamshire

“Great day yesterday, I have to say Wire really know how to put on an event, the only feedback I got from the event was how much people had enjoyed the day...so well done.” Anna Farmery, The Engaging Brand North Yorkshire

Tess Heslop“I just wanted to say a huge thank you for picking my website this month. Talk about a surprise! Your link led to the sub editor of Aga contacting me wanting to use our stock in their next magazine. Thank you!!” Tess Heslop, Ochre & Ocre Limited Worcestershire

“Being a WIRE Member has been of such benefit to me, both personally & professionally so I just wanted you to know what a great organisation you are. Keep up the good work!!” Pavlenka Small, Small Steps to Success Suffolk

“I have really enjoyed being a "group leader" in WiRE and have met and heard some very inspiring ladies and I look forward to meeting many more ” Glynis Hale, Essex

“Just wanted to say, my WiRE membership has already paid for itself. I was setting up card services with HSBC for my website, and mentioned their flier I got with the WiRE introductory papers. It got the £150 set up fee waived, and better rates on transactions across the board. Thanks!” Cally Robson, Founder and Publisher Oxfordshire

“My role as network co-ordinator is on a voluntary basis, with no remuneration, but being passionate about bringing women together and building good solid business relationship I see WIRE and other networking groups as a vital part of our business life. Not only has it built good businesses I have made some fabulous friends.” Karen Tomalin, 2nd Skin Lingerie Ltd Worcestershire

“Thanks so much for the mention; I have had quite a few visits to my site as a result! Keep up the good work, my WIRE membership is certainly the best £40 I have ever spent.” Linda Garrould, I Adore Your Gifts Norfolk

“Just a quick email to say what an awesome conference it was this year! Absolutely amazing! I also wanted to let you know that out of all the ladies there I had 6 of the ladies who are already clients, plus 2 which signed up for websites on the day! It was absolutely amazing and I really had a good day, it was definitely well worth the trip up. May I please book a stand and a place for every year, this is an event which is booked into my calendar without a doubt!” Lee Ann Smith, W3 Web Designs Carmarthenshire