I was a teacher for ten years. Everyone thinks teaching is the ideal job to fit in with children and family life. But it isn't. Yes, you get the holidays off to be with the little ones (well, apart from planning, putting up displays and ticking the various other 'teacher requirement' boxes) but term time is a constant game of catch up. There is always more to do. A teacher's work truly is never done...planning, marking, assessments, target setting, performance management, Christmas productions, INSET days....I have maximum respect for teachers whether they work full or part time. I still keep my hand in doing some supply, but things have taken a turn 'career' wise.
When I left the school I was given a voucher to have a beauty treatment. I love being pampered and this was particularly welcomed having just had my third little one. I went and had a pedicure. It was nice, but I was completely distracted...It suddenly dawned on me that I actually was a qualified beautician, and that I could carry out treatments to fit around the family, and for alot cheaper too as I wouldn't have the overheads. That was in May last year and in June, the beauty business began (I don't hang around when inspired. Sometimes being completely impulsive has it's advantages)
On the 'menu' I offered Pamper Parties. Someone booked one for their daughter, and I loved it. It ticked all the boxes for me- a bit of 'teaching', beauty treatments, no child care issues...perfect. Funnily enough it was for a girl I knew from the school I taught at. I came home and said 'That's it...that's what I really want to do.' And so Pamper Parties Oxfordshire was born...