This International Women’s Day, our focus was on highlighting some of the incredible business women in Brewery Square, showcasing their journey and the impact they’ve made.

We’ve had the privilege of talking to some of they female entrepreneurs who call Brewery Square home to their successful businesses.

Their stories are diverse, yet they share a common thread of strength.

Georgia Heggs, Halo Fine Art Gallery:

The passionate owner of Halo Fine Art Gallery, whose journey from teaching to owning an art gallery has been nothing short of inspiring. ‘After being in the gallery for no more than a month, I fell in love. The surroundings, the artwork, the methods, the clients and everything else that it brings. I loved seeing the reactions that art could bring to an individual and the memories it can bring back, it truly is moving’.

‘I learnt very early on that you don’t always get things right, but you learn from your mistakes, I also have 2 young children and 2 dogs, so trying to run the business whilst still being mum is hard, but I take the little wins when I can, like never missing a sports day or never missing them come out the school doors at 3pm”.

Any advice for women starting out in their career?

My advice would be, don’t give up. If you truly believe and want something, keep going. Always be kind and always believe in yourself. If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will. Also be prepared to get your hands dirty, you get out of a business what you put in. 

Annabelle Thorne, F.I.T.T Chiropractic

Annabelle’s venture began just before the onset of the pandemic. She signed the lease in March, only for COVID to freeze everything two weeks later. Despite the uncertainty, Annabelle’s spirit continued, and the business came out stronger.

A defining moment in Annabelle’s journey was fuelled by the support of other women. A good friend encouraged her to take the plunge, along with Annabelle’s daughter, Mya, further inspiring her.

Any advice for women starting out in their career?

Annabelle emphasises the impact of leading by example, recognising that a team is only as strong as its leader. Friendship, shared values, and resilience are the cornerstones of her success.

Annabelle shares that if she could go back to her 20-year-old self, she would believe in herself sooner. She encourages women to stand their ground, ignore the naysayers, and not let anyone pull them down.

Helen Moody, C SIDE

Helen’s passion for music and upcycling laid the foundation for C SIDE. With a background in markets and record fairs they continued their mission into bricks and mortar. C SIDE has found its creative home in Brewery Square, selling preloved and upcycled clothing, recycled jewellery and items created by small businesses and younger individuals.

Any advice for women starting out in their career?

Pursue something you’re passionate about and recognise that the rewards come in many ways. Having a space that is yours is an incredible achievement. You should focus on doing what you love and don’t solely fixate on financial gain.

Louise Cowan, Loco Loves Boutique

As Loco Loves marks it’s 5th year in Brewery Square, we take a moment to reflect on the inspiring journey of its founder.

Louise’s journey began in the world of fashion buying. Following redundancy, the desire to do something personal and meaningful led her to explore her passions. Starting with Loco Craft and later evolving into Loco Loves Boutique, the business became a reflection of everything she loves.

A pivotal moment for Louise was when a previous job didn’t work out and she found herself with a newfound confidence, reinforcing the belief that she could venture further.

What inspired you to start your business?

Doing something for yourself and having that extra push from her children.

Any advice for women starting out in their career?

If you have that desire just go for it as you have nothing to lose. Take the plunge as you will always think about the ‘what if’s’, so you might as well go for it. You will be knocked down but you’ve got to keep going, and once you find something that drives you, you’ll find that fight to keep going. Be more self-confident and don’t doubt yourself.

Nikki Skinner, Nikki’s Little Play Cafe

Nikki’s Little Play Cafe opened in January 2024, creating a calm, muted, sensory sympathetic play space for children to enjoy.

Nikki’s experience comes with insightful advice for other women, especially mothers. She encourages them not to lose themselves in motherhood. Nikki observed that many first-time mothers tend to forget their identity amidst their new roles. Her message is clear – be who you want to be.

Were there any challenges when starting your business?

Nikki encountered some challenges when opening NLPC, as nothing moved as swiftly and fast as anticipated. The most significant hurdle was time scales.

Marcia Smith, Vinyl Van

Vinyl Van started with selling vinyls from their VW Campervan at local festivals, events, and markets. After an incredible summer, they stumbled upon their current premises in Brewery Square.

They consider themselves fortunate to share this passion with others. The dream of working with music, once just an idea, has become their reality.

Were there specific challenges you faced when establishing your business, and how did you overcome them?

With limited capital, the journey started in a campervan as a mobile business and we evolved over time into a permanent location.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs based on your own experience?

Follow your passions, if you do what you love then you’ll love what you do. Start small to test the water and build things up as you can. Market stalls etc are great and affordable ways of trying things out before committing to a long-term venture.

Any advice for women starting out in their career?

Be your authentic self and love what you do. Passion and authenticity show.

As we celebrate these incredible women on International Women’s Day, our hope is that their stories serve as inspiration for all, setting examples for young girls and demonstrating that anything is possible with dedication.

The post International Women’s Day appeared first on Brewery Square.

Join us for a magical experience as Santa Claus joins us at Brewery Square!

 

This is a free event for all to attend on 23rd December, between 1pm and 3pm.

 

Santa will be gifting the first 100 visitors in Brewery Square a special sweet treat.

The post Santa in the Square appeared first on Brewery Square.

The post Whitney Houston Tribute Act appeared first on Brewery Square.

The post Christmas Market appeared first on Brewery Square.

Skating in the Square

Step into a winter wonderland in Brewery Square, where a synthetic ice skating rink awaits to add a sparkle to your festive season. This eco-friendly skating rink is the perfect family-friendly attraction, offering endless fun for skaters of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re taking your first glide across the rink or showing off your skating skills, the rink is an enchanting experience complete with festive music and warm, welcoming staff.

Book Here

The post Christmas Lights Switch On appeared first on Brewery Square.

The post Free Food Fridays appeared first on Brewery Square.

Hub Box has seen demand soar for its premium burgers and eclectic drinks selection across existing sites over the past year, inspiring the company to broaden its horizons and find a new home in the heart of Brewery Square. Its new 120-seat Dorchester restaurant will serve up an acclaimed offering of gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries, cocktails, and craft beers, all served with a smile.

Staple dishes at Dorchester Hub Box will include its award-winning Big Kahuna Burger, buttermilk-fried chicken Dirty Disco burger, and delicious hot dogs from Rare and Pasture; an artisan, organic charcuterie and smokery, plus a range of plant-based and meat-free alternatives.

With indoor and outdoor dining spaces and a dedicated bar area, the design and décor will emulate Hub Box’s signature unique style. The design will celebrate South West coastal and surf culture with a modern and spirited feel, while also giving a nod to the site’s rich 19^th century architecture and heritage as a former brewery. In-keeping with Brewery Square’s regular showcase of Dorset talent, the restaurant décor will feature the work of local suppliers, as well as focus on sustainability with reclaimed materials.Hub Box’s new Dorchester restaurant will create approximately 25 full-time and part-time job roles across various positions.

Dorchester Hub Box will open its doors later this year, located at Unit 1, Eldridge Street, Brewery square, Dorchester, DT1 1HX. For more information about Hub Box or to book a table, visit https://hubbox.co.uk/restaurants/dorchester-hub-box/

The post Hubbox to Open at Brewery Square – Monday 17 October appeared first on Brewery Square.

The decision to close will also be taken by various businesses at Brewery Square, at their own discretion. A full list of confirmed planned closures at Brewery Square can be found here (please note this list is subject to change and we will keep it regularly updated): 

Woods Furniture

Copper Street Brewery

Maxgate Properties

The Highbrow Skin and Laser Clinic

Halo Fine Art

Loco Loves

Luciano’s

Phase Eight

Hobbs

Dorset Hideaways

Belle Modelle 

FITT Chiropractic

Odeon Cinema

Thomas J William

Avenue Interiors

Costa Coffee

Cote Brasserie

Pope Street Cycles

Hendover Cafe

Jacqueline’s Boutique

Joules

Loco Loves

Morrish & Banham

The Great Big Escape

Vibes Cafe

Stems Florist

Our deepest sympathies go to the Royal Family. Her Majesty was a truly inspiring leader worldwide and we join millions of others in reflecting on her incredible 70-year reign over the coming weeks and months. Thank you to all our visitors, staff, businesses, and residents for your continued support.

The post Update following the tragic passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II appeared first on Brewery Square.

Hub Box has seen demand soar for its premium burgers and eclectic drinks selection across existing sites over the past year, inspiring the company to broaden its horizons and find a new home in the heart of Brewery Square. Its new 120-seat Dorchester restaurant will serve up an acclaimed offering of gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries, cocktails, and craft beers, all served with a smile.

The company champions seasonality and provenance, sourcing ingredients across the region including grass-fed moorland beef from Launceston-based butcher Philip Warren, and free-range chicken from Castlemead Poultry in Radstock. Staple dishes at Dorchester Hub Box will include its award-winning Big Kahuna Burger, buttermilk-fried chicken Dirty Disco burger, and delicious hot dogs from Rare and Pasture; an artisan, organic charcuterie and smokery, plus a range of plant-based and meat-free alternatives.

With indoor and outdoor dining spaces and a dedicated bar area, the design and décor will emulate Hub Box’s signature unique style. The design will celebrate South West coastal and surf culture with a modern and spirited feel, while also giving a nod to the site’s rich 19^th century architecture and heritage as a former brewery. In-keeping with Brewery Square’s regular showcase of Dorset talent, the restaurant décor will feature the work of local suppliers, as well as focus on sustainability with reclaimed materials.

Charlotte Spracklen, Centre Manager at Brewery Square commented: “We’re thrilled that Hub Box has chosen Brewery Square to host its first Dorset restaurant. The company’s commitment to celebrating local produce is in-keeping with our own values, as we pride ourselves on showcasing the very best that Dorset has to offer with our diverse mix of businesses.

“Hub Box will add to our exceptional quality restaurant offering, giving people extended choice, and transforming their visit to Brewery Square into even more of a memorable experience.”

Richard Boon, Founder and CEO of Hub Box added: “Brewery Square is a thriving destination in Dorset’s county town which lends itself perfectly as a location for our restaurant. As a proud South West business, we believe in choosing areas which celebrate local culture and drive awareness of independent businesses.

“Our Dorchester restaurant signifies a milestone in our journey as we venture into a new county, bringing job opportunities to the area and growing our passionate team culture. It’s a truly exciting time for Hub Box and we’re looking forward to welcoming the Dorset community through our doors this autumn.”

Hub Box’s new Dorchester restaurant will create approximately 25 full-time and part-time job roles. across various positions. Anyone interested in joining its team should send a copy of their CV to donna@hubbox.co.uk.

Dorchester Hub Box will open its doors later this year, located at Unit 1, Eldridge Street, Brewery square, Dorchester, DT1 1HX. For more information about Hub Box, visit https://hubbox.co.uk/.

For more information about Brewery Square, visit https://brewerysquare.com/.

The post Renowned South West restaurant group to make Dorset debut at Brewery Square appeared first on Brewery Square.

The post Hobbs London – The Autumn Collection 2022 appeared first on Brewery Square.