Kidspiration
Margaret Doran had toyed with the idea of creating her own inspirational private day nursery for little ones for years after moving to the North West.
The mother of three grown-up children felt a pre-school was desperately needed in the Gorton area of east Manchester and wanted to make a difference to the small, tight-knit community.
Little did she know, though, that the next two years would test her patience far more than any child could.
"The red tape was a challenging experience but it made me even more determined to achieve my dream of opening my own nursery business," she said.
"It was such a long drawn-out process, acquiring premises, obtaining planning permission, getting the necessary licences and accreditations and recruiting staff."
But she achieved her goal with help - whenever she needed it - from Blue Orchid. One of Blue Orchid's advisors was there from start to finish to help with the business planning, marketing, logistics, staff recruitment and even attended meetings with her.
"I would not have been able to do this without my advisor," said Margaret. "She became my confidante and helped to keep my spirits high during the most frustrating times. I can’t speak highly enough of Blue Orchid. I continue to get support and guidance from them to help my business thrive."
In June 2009 - after 23 years working with the under fives in inner-city London and Manchester - Margaret opened the doors to Kidspiration, a nursery that believes children learn more by discovering things for themselves.
In Margaret's eyes that means less structured learning and more time for the children to play.
Tel: 0774 283 47920
