Member in the Spotlight - Anita Collier
This month's 'Member in the Spotlight' is Anita Collier of Virgin Wines Fabulous Advisor.
1. Ten words that describe your business: Wine tastings parties at home with chance to buy bargains.
2. What do you most enjoy about your work?: I'm retired and on my own now, so looked for something that would allow me to socialise, use my presentation skills and talk about things that excite me.
I'm passionate about wine, understand the Virgin ethos (having worked for Virgin companies for 10 years), and have experience with party plan, so this is a perfect fit.
3. What attracted you to the Mendip area?: My parents moved here in 1964, but even though I moved to London shortly afterwards, I felt very drawn back to this area, so returned in 1978.
4. What advice would you give to anyone starting a business in the area?: Check out your market, scrutinise the competition and talk to others who've set up before you.
A good accountant and/or business advisor in the area would be worth their weight in gold, and exploiting networking opportunities, like the Mendip Business Women's Forum, is definitely recommended.
5. Who or what inspires you?: I'm inspired by positive thinking people who refuse to be beaten, and those who are solution, rather than problem, orientated.
6. Your greatest achievement to date – personal or business?: Other than my children, my greatest achievement is beating breast cancer, plus understanding myself and what drives me. I'm proud of the fact that, as well as the wines business, I operate as a Pranic Healer and a Social Events organiser, so juggle three jobs as well as a busy social life.
7. In five words, how would your friends describe you?: Fun-loving organiser with enormous energy.
8. Favourite place in the world?: Most breathtaking, St. Thomas in the Caribbean;
Most friendly, Mombassa in Kenya;
Most user-friendly, Sydney;
Most inspirational, Greece;
Most beautiful, Cornwall on a sunny day.
9. Cats or dogs?: Definitely dogs.
10. When not at work, where can you be found?: Usually at my computer organising stuff, in the kitchen preparing for a dinner party, out to lunch with friends, or on holiday. It's a great life!
If you wish to find out more about Anita and Virgin Wines, please contact Fiona directly.
Contact Details
tel: 07941 377418
email: anitacollier1@gmail.com