Inspiring small business owners from across the UK attended a special event ahead of Small Business Saturday.
Carrie-Ann Wade founder of Cat’s Pajamas Communications Ltd was invited to a special reception at the House of Lords on Monday 29 November, to be recognised for their successes and achievements as a small business owner.
Hosted by Small Business Saturday, in partnership with the campaign’s principal supporter American Express, the event celebrated the SmallBiz100 - 100 inspiring small businesses from all over the country that are highlighted as part of the Small Business Saturday UK campaign.
Cat’s Pajamas was named a SmallBiz100 in 2020, in recognition of Carrie-Ann’s impressive entrepreneurial journey, which has seen them pivot their business to start supporting communications professionals to grow and thrive in their careers.
Carrie-Ann said, “It is such an honour to be recognised alongside so many other amazing small businesses as part of the SmallBiz100. Being able to celebrate at the House of Lords was an extra special end to this year and a chance to reflect on the success of our newly launched online programme supporting communicators with their professional development.”
Bringing together entrepreneurs from this year’s SmallBiz100 line-up and those called out in 2020, the guests were treated to afternoon tea overlooking the Thames. Entrepreneurs from across the country met with Small Business Minister, Paul Scully, along with enjoying the opportunity to come together for the first time since the pandemic hit.
The House of Lords event kicks off a week of celebrations ahead of Small Business Saturday, which returns this weekend (4 December) following record-breaking success last year, which saw an estimated £1.1 billion spent with small businesses on the day itself.
Now in its ninth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday celebrates small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support businesses in their communities. This year it is calling on the nation to share a ‘big thank you’ with small firms to recognise their vital role throughout the pandemic.
Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Busines Saturday UK said:
‘Hosting this special event at the House of Lords for amazing businesses like Cat’s Pajamas, felt like the best way to say a big thank you for their incredible effort and contribution over these past tough couple of years. They can be really proud of everything they’ve achieved, and we hope the afternoon was a positive way to draw 2021 to a close.’
Small Business Minister Paul Scully praised the business owners for their continued commitment to their communities:
“From the pubs, restaurants and shops that make our high streets tick, to leisure and personal care services – like the hairdresser who saved my post-lockdown blushes last year – small businesses are at the heart of our way of life. I urge everyone to shop safely and back their local businesses.”