Career change for Jo renewed her passion for helping children and adults

Jo runs her own successful Creation Station franchise in Petersfield, Midhurst, Liss and Liphook.

Since leaving a career in optics Jo has launched a successful Creation Station franchise and now never misses a parent's evening, is more available for her girls, has met many people in my local community and helped to run national events and the kids zone at Camp Bestival!

“I have worked in Optics for twenty years and had no way of progressing in my career. I was ready to do something that I was passionate about. My husband Simon and I four wonderful daughters, Megan, Emily, Sophie and Matilda. I wanted to show my girls that you can do anything you put your mind to.

When I was looking at changing my career to run my own business, Simon was apprehensive at first. It’s a big step to leaving your long standing successful career and start your own business. We sat down together and explored options and went through all the information we had received from The Creation Station and made a plan.

Why did you decide to buy a franchised business?

I don’t have a business background so I knew starting from scratch would be very difficult. A proven successful business model with great support gives me the best of both worlds.

I was attracted to The Creation Station for so many reasons! I have always enjoyed crafts and when I was looking for classes to take Matilda to, there was very little choice in my area. The activities really jumped out at me and I remember something sparked inside me! I downloaded the information pack, went to a discovery event and I knew this is what I wanted to be doing. I was fortunate to be able to fund the investment with the help of my family. Other people I know have be able to get bank loans.

What were your feelings when you started?

I was nervous about starting as I wasn’t sure I would be able to run a business as I’ve never done anything like this before But I was also so excited to find out how the process of owning a franchise works.

The training was great, lots to take in but it was all broken down into manageable steps. The support was fantastic, I never felt silly asking questions about something I wasn’t sure about.

What do you love about running your Creation Station

I’ve always wanted to help people. Now my business helps children and adults be creative. Creativity is key to positive mental health, and I’m so proud that I run my Creation Station franchise to provide a fun place for children and adults to express themselves by providing tried and tested fun classes, parties and events.

I’ve done so many things that I would never have done if I wasn’t running my own Creation Station Franchise.

I never miss a parents evening, I’ more available for my girls, I’ve met so many people in my local community and I’ve helped to run national events and Camp Bestival!