Serenity by Julie Brooke
Name: Julie Brooke
Trading Ward: Silsden
Business Name: Serenity by Julie Brooke
Business Address:
11 Briggate, Silsden
Email: Contact Serenity by Julie Brooke
Telephone: 01535 653737
Background of Business
If it is true that ‘50 is the new 40' then mother-of-four and youthful grandma Julie Brooke, of Silsden, sets a good example. Just weeks after celebrating her 50th birthday she started her own business in the village, with support from a Kickstart Business Counsellor. ‘Serenity by Julie Brooke' is now open, providing holistic and beauty therapies to a discerning group she defines as ‘ladies who want to feel special.' Julie is fully qualified, having studied for a diploma at Park Lane College, Keighley. She knows the college well, having spent eight years as a member of staff, assisting students with special needs.
Support Journey
Learning that Julie was interested in starting her own business, a friend introduced her to Helen Hoyle, a former bank manager and now a Kickstart Business Counsellor. She is based at the Royds Business Enterprise Park, in Buttershaw, but agreed to travel to the Aire Valley to give Julie advice and practical support. ‘Helen has been brilliant; always there for me,' says Julie. ‘She helped me with my business plan and cash flow forecasting, as well as advising me as I looked for suitable premises.' Julie has attended a Kickstart book-keeping course in Keighley and attends networking events.
Where are they now
Following almost 12 months of business planning, finding premises and converting them for use as a therapy centre, Julie's dream of opening Serenity became reality in March 2009. Her husband Norman, now retired, was a tower of strength, while further encouragement was given by her four married children, one of whom is serving with the Army. Julie offers a range of holistic and beauty therapies, including aromatherapy, Indian head massage, hot stones, Hopi candles, Reiki, reflexology and Swedish massage. She also provides waxing, facials, manicures and pedicures. Most of her clients live in Silsden or travel from Addingham, Ilkley, Keighley or Steeton. She welcomes ladies of any age. ‘I love being self-employed,' Julie says. ‘I am in control of my business and can maintain high standards of therapy and client services.'
