From Office to Oasis: London’s Own Hustlers Turn Dreams into Reality
If you’re a mid‑career Londoner sitting in a comfy cubicle but secretly brewing up an entrepreneurial idea, this is the pep talk you need.
Let Go of the “What Ifs”
Stepping out of a golden street‑saver office into the unpredictable world of start‑ups feels scary. There’s the fear of failure, the dilemma of letting go of steady paychecks and perks, and that nagging question of “what if I don’t make it?” But look at Mark Holdsworth – after 15 years on the clock at Bacardi, Bombay Sapphire, and other big names, he left it all behind to launch HALF HITCH Gin & Micro‑Distillery. His gamble paid off, and his gin is now stashed in London pubs, online, and even overseas.
Natasha Blakemore: Lit by Candlelight
Natasha, a brand specialist with a love for fragrance, took the plunge with her hand‑poured lamp line, Tussie Mussie. She says being your own boss is like owning a playground: you set the rules, decide the hours, and feel the rush of turning passion into profit.
She explains: “If I could dream it, why not make it happen? Life’s short, and I didn’t want to live a life full of “what ifs.” It’s empowering, motivating, and frankly, worth ditching the corporate grind.”
From Dreams to Reality
Natasha started with a clear obsession for scents, then took candle‑making and perfume courses. By combining that with her marketing know‑how, she spent weeks brainstorming, testing, and tweaking until Tussie Mussie was ready. She says a lot of research is essential – “You need to know your market and competitors before you jump in.”
Lessons in Transition
Mark reminds us to “know your industry inside and out, and don’t quit until you’re actually selling.” Natasha counters: “Keep reviewing your plan – let new opportunities shape it. Turn your work into a vacation; love what you do and let that passion shine.”
Where Success Lives – The Dot London Edge
Both entrepreneurs went digital with .london URLs, rather than the bland .com or .co.uk. According to Dan Hill, Head of Dot London, a city‑specific domain shows pride in a globally celebrated place, boosting confidence and standing out in London’s buzzing business scene.
Marketing the Hustle
Mark keeps the conversation alive with a “gin school” in Camden, building community and brand love. Natasha sells directly at markets, fairs, and almost the holiday scene itself, and has walked onto a platform like Not On The High Street after pitching at a “Pitch Up” event.
Take the Leap, Own Your Passion
The message is clear: make your vocation a vacation, dive deep into research, keep your plans flexible, and most importantly, listen to your heart. The world is waiting for your stubborn, daring love story.
