Anna McDonald Blog

The Oxford Mail turned up and added some spice to the occassion with the models being photographed outside the newly refurbished Spread Eagle Hotel in Thame.

This fashion show was a little easier than previous shows as the hotel is only round the corner from the Bridal Gallery so the movement of dresses was slightly less painful than normal. These shows are hard work but I always involve some of my friends in the show.  

Anna takes some time off at the British Bridal Buyer Awards to assess what has been achieved in the last year. The Anna McDonald Bridal Gallery in Thame was short listed from hundreds of shops thoughout the Uk and Ireland down to 6 for the prestigeous title and Best Bridal Bridal Retail Display, achieved within 6 months of opening. 

Anna prides herself on the unique decor and display of the shop interior and is delighted with the feedback from her clients who point out that the Bridal Gallery stands out from the crowd. 

"Despite being a runner-up this year, we felt proud that we had come so close against some great shops that had been in business for many years. Not one to rest on my laurels, I have since extended my shop further and created a unique lighting display that is has a subtle position behind the dresses and delivers an enhanced viewing experience. I have to say that a lot of the ideas recently installed came from watching fashion shows in Harrogate. So, we had a great time at the ceremony and also managed to pick up some great tips from the experts in fashion show design and delivery". 

"Roll-on Harrogate, here we come" 

Interested to hear your views on topical subject given the recent economic turmoil faced by many small to medium sized businesses. Small businesses have to take on an enormous amount of risk in developing a new business idea or at least an concept that is currently not being served well in the market. Given the financial and emotional commitment required to generate revenue through acquiring new customers followed by the increasing burden of bureacracy and stealth tax it is easy to ask yourself "is it worth it"

Our view is a resounding "yes" as the satisfaction and constantly changing challenges more than compensate for the negatives that are associated with small business risk. 

However, when times get hard, as they have been and are for many at present, what support is there from Government bodies and Banks?
 
We, along with other businesses in Thame are becoming more involved with each other to share ideas and also to see how we can help each others' business. Now, more than ever, you need to be innovative to develop self-sufficient and sustainable competitive advantage to help protect and grow your business for the future. Innovation is vital.