Imagine celebrating a 5th birthday even though you've only just set eyes on a business! Well, that's exactly what Celia, the driving force behind Blyde Welcome, is doing today.
Behind this seemingly new arrival lies five years of dedication and passion. Celia's journey in hospitality training began many moons ago when she first started working at the Kveldsro as a part time waitress, after many years in hospitality Celia went onto offer vocational training in hospitality and retail. She was the one who made it possible for staff to gain recognised qualifications while working.
However, when the pandemic hit, the world changed. The demand for training dwindled, and many people left the sector. But Celia wasn't about to let her dreams crumble. So, she embarked on a new adventure.
Last year, Celia embarked on a quest to find the perfect Scottish roastery. Her quest led her to the beautiful neighbouring island of Orkney. Celia started by sourcing and selling coffee to local businesses. Then, she had an idea - why not open a training centre and coffee shop right here in Lerwick.
At Blyde Welcome, the magic of training is available to all businesses in Shetland, along with groups eager to master the art of cocktails, coffee art, or tea blending. Celia’s favourite part about running her own businesses is her passion for connecting with customers and hearing their thoughts. Her dedication to excellent customer service shines as soon as you step through the door.
Running a business has its fair share of challenges. For Celia, the shift from being a solo entrepreneur to an employer brought its own set of complexities - wages, VAT returns, and all that jazz.
You might wonder why Celia chose Lerwick as her business's home. Well, it's simple - foot traffic and being at the heart of Lerwick. Her strategic choice has made Blyde Welcome an easy and delightful stop for anyone exploring our lovely town.
And here's a fun fact about Celia - she can speak fluent Greek! How cool is that?
So, next time you find yourself strolling down Commercial Street, make sure to pop into Blyde Welcome. Whether you're in for a perfectly brewed coffee, a masterclass in hospitality, or just a friendly chat with Celia and her lovely team, you're in for a treat.
