EveAnna Leisure, Alnwick Northumberland

Darren Taylor

Tell us a little about you 

I hale from Northumberland and have a great passion for the coast and countryside here. I studied hospitality management on leaving school and I have enjoyed a career spanning 35 years, working in a variety of catering and hospitality ventures and primarily in hotel services within the health and social care,

Tell us about your business

 I happened across the B&B last year, by something of an accident really. I was looking for a stone built, period property in Northumberland, close to the coast and countryside, as had long been my dream. On viewing this property, I immediately fell in love with it and felt confident that I would be able to offer a quality service. I changed the name to EveAnna, using the names of my two nieces, Eve and Anna, who both live in Australia. The name means gift from god, which sums up how I feel about this opportunity. I have now completed my first-year trading and I have enjoyed great reviews and met some amazing guests that have inspired me to continue to develop.

How did The Business & IP Centre (BIPC) North East help you?

BIPC provided specialist support and funding to enable me to develop a website that will aim to uplift the company profile and afford guests an opportunity to book directly, which will increase income. It will also mean that I am able to inform potential guests about what’s on in the area

What is the best piece of business advice you’ve ever been given?

“Surround yourself with good people, who will support you to succeed!”

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to walk the coast and countryside. I also love to sing, and I can often be found singing in local venues. I also have a great passion for cooking, so I spend much of my time in the kitchen

Darren Taylor worked with Software & Website Expert Peter Martin