Pink Link celebrates 10th anniversary with summer regional event

With over 55 exhibitor stands and masterclasses to help women improve and grow their business, the day was crammed full of things to do and people to speak to. It was a day of action as connections were made, ideas were sparked, and collaborations were formed.

Pink Link is the brainchild of female entrepreneur Coral Horn. A decade ago, she decided that it was time to change the face of networking in the region. From that first female only networking meeting in 2009, Pink Link has expanded into a chain of local groups, regional meetings, expos and the Enterprise Vision Awards.

Coral Horn, director of Pink Link said “Some of our members have been with us since that first meeting. Our Blackpool meeting regularly brings together over 50 women and The Winter Gardens is home to the EVAS – the biggest business awards specific to women outside London.  We had to hold our 10th birthday celebrations here - Blackpool is the home of Pink Link. Over 200 women – and a few men – helped us mark this momentous day.”

It wasn’t all business on the day though. The Indulgence Zone was an opportunity to mix business with pleasure. Mini make-overs and massages, free headshots and painting classes, homemade ice-cream rolls and a cocktail masterclass ensured that the party spirit was in full force.

Event sponsor, Mike Hartley of D Hollowell & Sons Funerals said: “Sponsoring the Pink Link event gave us a fantastic opportunity to increase awareness of the services offered by the Hollowell family. Often seen as a taboo subject the forum and regional event provided us with a platform where we could dispell myths and rumours about the funeral industry whilst supporting families in planning for the future.”

The audience were spellbound and inspired by the business speakers. Lucy West, head of news at ITV Granada Reports shared her experiences about an industry that has a reputation of being difficult for women to succeed at the top. Determination and an eye for opportunity has resulted in her being the recipient of two BAFTAs. She will be attending the EVAS next month to experience first hand the region’s most prestigious awards for businesswomen.

At only 9 years old, Molly Rose, Britain’s youngest female entrepreneur shared her plans to conquer the UK’s soft drinks market. Her passion, business acumen and social enterprise had many a mother thinking that their offspring’s summer holidays could be more productive! Molly Rose lemonade with its hint of vanilla was a hit on the hot summer’s day.

Julia Eastwood of Artisan Tiles and Interiors said “It’s more than simply networking and generating leads, it’s about friendship and trust. I have made some wonderful friends at Pink Link who are there to support, encourage and share knowledge and experiences.”

Judging by the photos and videos from the Summer Regional Event, Pink Link have found the secret of successful networking and they are happy to share it with women across the North West. There’s no grass growing under Pink Link’s feet though, demand is growing for more vents and they are already busy planning more business conferences for the next 18 months. If you would like to find out more about Pink Link please contact [email protected] or call them on 01253 425443.