New beginnings
September usually has the that fresh start kind of feeling and this year it feels like that even more than usual. Children heading back to school, the Nudge team is back together (we have squeezed in some time off here and there) and we are all set for what is always our busiest time of year.
We are also seeing people making small, brave steps to a different normal - like the artists who joined Wonderzoo on the street this weekend...and others making life changes and finding new ways forward as a result of the most extraordinary time. We really love being able to support people to be brave and contribute to our community.
Here we share some of the new starts we've experienced this month and share our plans for September... including details about the Street Party, our AGM and the Art Weekender.
New beginnings at The Plot
So this month Jabulani had their first couple of trial sessions at The Plot, getting ready to open a unique food court that supports BAME entrepreneurs. The smells were AMAZING, look out for opening times and come and try some truly fantastic dishes this month.
The Plot is coming together, thanks to a crew of volunteers and local businesses pushing the building forward, adding lovely touches and giving us working doors, lights and windows. Pop in and take a look during the Art Weekender at the end of September.
Our quest for a plumber is over...after months of searching...more than 10 plumbers not turning up...we have a plumber with Stonehouse connections, who gets what we are doing and is going to install the disabled toilet and other essentials - HOORAY for local businesses. We can't wait for new toilets!!!
We'll be promoting the spaces available for businesses and community organisations at The Plot over the next month - we're looking for a sparky mix that contributes back to our community, enjoy collaborating and create a unique destination for people to enjoy - if that could be you get in touch!
New starts at The Clipper
We said good bye to No Whey! We loved having them behind the bar, always yummy, experimenting and throwing fab events. We always intended for the space to be a low risk, supportive space for a start up until they are ready to go and do their own thing. We are excited to see what they do next and wish them loads of luck with their new adventures. Fingers crossed they pop back for special events every now and then too.
So who is next for a new start?! If you've been cooking up a business idea that would work in The Clipper and want to give it a go, please get in touch. We'll be advertising over the coming month and offering times to come and chat and view the space. Our board will make a decision by October, whoever it is we know you'll all give them a warm nudgey welcome. In the meantime Hedgerow will continue opening in the space serving delicious food and a friendly vibe.
The Street Party not as you know it
We have had to rip up our usual plans for the street party and piece them together in a whole new way this year. SO many people asked us to try and make it happen and after lots of research and testing things at the Manor Street Market we think we've found a way.
Come and join us on the street on Sunday 13 September from 12-4pm. Expect fun, colour, tunes and the usual random celebration of all things Stonehouse. Also expect a track and trace tombola, the best health and safety chat you've ever had (honestly!) and limited numbers to help us keep apart. And if that's just not your thing right now we'll be live on-line too. Look out for the programme and more details over the next few weeks.
Our Annual General Nudge - AGN (officially our AGM)
We are really looking forward to welcoming members and shareholders along to our AGN on 17 September anytime between 4-7pm. We got great feedback last year, so we have adapted the same format to make it work within current guidelines. We'll need to know how many people are coming so please sign up here, and again if that's not for you - join us on zoom.
We are looking for new board members - we are especially looking for people with a local connection and (we know it's a long shot) someone who love figures and finance would be fantastic. If that's you send us an email saying what you would bring to the board, a photo and contact details. If we are oversubscribed there will be a vote on the night.
Art Weekender
We have supported a number of commissions this year including 'A pavillion for us' by Will Luz and an augmented reality project out on the street by Igneous Interactive. Our buildings will be full of art and artists for you to explore. Check out the full programme here - please come along and support this city wide event if you can.
So lots of new things, fresh starts and opportunities for new beginnings this month. A local person said 'I think you have changed our area forever and we're excited about how it's going to keep changing.' Bring on the autumn!!
Love Hannah, Wendy and all at Team Nudge xxxx