Shobhna Jesa, a Great British Franchisee Winner of 2022, worked in a luxury diamond wholesale company before becoming a franchisee for The Christmas Decorators. Moving to London to open her own jewellery company, Shobhna started to look at other opportunities that she could do alongside her business. “I initially believed it to be a seasonal business which I could do in the winter months, but I have been swept off my feet with the success I have experienced year round, so much so that I never returned to the jewellery trade.”

What did you do before joining the Christmas Decorators?

I was operating a luxury diamond wholesale company. My company was a supplier to the Company of Master jewellers which was by invitation only.  We supplied to very high-end jewellers around the UK like Goldsmith etc. This closed due to the 2008 economy crash.

What made you choose The Christmas Decorators Franchise?

I moved to London in 2014 hoping to set up my jewellery company again in Hatton Gardens. Whilst I was waiting for the right time in the market, I wanted to pass my time and saw the ideal opportunity in the Christmas decorator franchise. I initially believed it to be a seasonal business which I could do in the winter months, but I have been swept off my feet with the success I have experienced, so much so that I never returned to the jewellery trade.

How useful did you find the initial training?        

The initial training is very useful, especially if you are not from a creative background. In the creative workshops we are taught how to put colours together, which floral picks can be grouped together to create designer trees and garlands and amazing Christmas displays. There is also technical training in which we learn about fixing methods, the correct tools, and fixings for the type of work lighting, erecting giant trees etc. Throughout the year we are offered ongoing training in a number of areas relating to our work.

What kind of support have you received from the head office team?

Whenever I have required support with my installs, I will contact the head office team who have been outstanding in giving the correct technical advice and support. The head office team have supported me during site visits and client meetings, sharing their immense knowledge and any time spent with the team is priceless, you come away learning so much.

What do you enjoy most about being part of the business?

Being part of the franchise is key to my success. It’s the spring board you require when setting up a new business, I enjoy being part of the brand, and the team. For instance Ronaldo is a great football player but without his teammates he would not have been able to score all those goals by himself and therefore experience the success he is now enjoying. Similarly, without the team at head office I would not be as successful as I am.  Each individual member at head office has some experience that they can share with us for our business to grow successfully.

The strength and might of our brand name gives us an advantage over other companies when tendering for new business. It’s now a national and respected company and one that customers trust to do business with.

What advice would you have for anyone thinking of taking on a territory?

 I would advise them to prepare and organise themselves well before the Christmas trade begins. Have plenty of the stock and variety of decorations. It is essential to have a good staff team as they are the face of your company. They should be are trained to do all the jobs correctly so they feel confidant when out on installs and be trained to deliver good customer service so that the customers come back every year.

How do you see the future for your business?

My business has been growing every year since I purchased the franchise. I have set myself high goals and I am confidant of reaching them. I thoroughly enjoy the work we do and love work /life balance it affords , and the financial freedom I get from running a successful and thriving company.