Jo runs her own successful Creation Station franchise in Petersfield, Midhurst, Liss and Liphook. Read how Jo changed career to achieve her goals.
Jo and her famiy
“I worked in Optics for twenty years and I had no way of progressing in my career. I was ready to do something that I was passionate about.
My husband Simon, and I have four wonderful daughters, Megan, Emily, Sophie and Matilda. I wanted to show my girls that you can do anything you put your mind to.
When I was looking at changing my career to run my own business, Simon was apprehensive at first. It’s a big step to leave your long-standing successful career and start your own business. We sat down together and explored options and went through all the information we had received from The Creation Station. We were confident we could make it work and we made a plan. It was a real turning point for me.
Book Jo’s local classes, parties and events
Why did you decide to buy a franchised business?
I don’t have a business background so I knew starting from scratch would be very difficult. A proven successful business model with great support gives me the best of both worlds.
I was attracted to The Creation Station for so many reasons! I have always enjoyed crafts and when I was looking for classes to take Matilda to, there was very little choice in my area. The activities really jumped out at me and I remember something sparked inside me! I downloaded the information pack and went to a Discovery Event. (These are online now) I knew then that this was what I wanted to do!
I was able to fund the investment with the help of my family. Other people I know have raised their investment through bank loans with the help of The Creation Station team.
What were your feelings when you started the first part of training?
I was nervous about starting as I wasn’t sure I would be able to run a business as I’ve never done anything like this before But I was also so excited to find out how the process of owning a franchise works.
The training was great, lots to take in but it was all broken down into manageable steps. The support was fantastic, I never felt silly asking questions about something I wasn’t sure about.
What do you love about running your Creation Station Franchise?
I’ve always wanted to help people. Now my business helps children and adults be creative. Creativity is key to positive mental health, and I’m so proud that I run my Creation Station franchise to provide a fun place for children and adults to express themselves by providing tried and tested fun classes, parties and events.
I’ve done so many things that I would never have done if I wasn’t running my own Creation Station Franchise.
I never miss a parent’s evening, I’m more available for my girls, I’ve met so many people in my local community and I’ve helped to run national events and Camp Bestival!
Find out more about running your own Creation Station Franchise
