Why Bristol is the Perfect Place to Start My Business!
After many, many years of living in a tiny university city, I couldn’t be happier to now call Bristol my home. We moved here last year, and now I’m turning my longstanding freelance work into an ‘official’ business. I can’t imagine a better place to do it.
Some years ago, my husband gave me a notebook with ‘Rosia’s bright ideas’ printed on the cover. I opened it up the other day and saw that my son had written ‘Move to Bristol’ inside.
Creative buzz
Bristol thrums with creativity. It’s on every corner – it’s there in the graffiti, in the coloured houses, in the painted bricks on Gloucester Road. It’s in the street sculptures. A tiny monkey cradles a Rubik’s cube on Whiteladies Road; a recycled-metal unicorn stands atop a shop, legs astride, proudly guarding Stokes Croft (she’s called ‘Sally’ apparently, and brings a message of ‘recycling, harmony and peace’). In Redland, a big pink wicker nose juts out of a house and sniffs the flowers.
And that’s not to mention Banksy, or Aardman, or the festivals, the music, or all the other many things that make this city so creatively inspiring. I can’t think of a better backdrop.
A visually inspiring city
On my doorstep is The Downs, 400+ acres of green open space. In 20 minutes, I can reach a lookout point. From there I can see the suspension bridge, the woods, the steaming smoke of Avonmouth. And, beyond that, the water to Wales. If I walk 100 yards to my left I will reach a steep incline, trampled by goats.
Most days, I walk across The Downs. In winter I stomp through acres of frost-crusted grass, criss-crossed by long, blue shadows. In spring there is soft light, and the silent flight of kites. Now it’s summer and the grass is freckled with buttercups. In the hot air, dandelion fluffs sail by. There are blossoms underfoot.
This is such a great city in which to think, reflect and write.
Each day this city inspires me. I love the cliffs, the hills, the sudden surprise views… the boats, the harbour, the rows of brightly painted houses. And I love the beauty that is a little further afield – caves, sea, forest…
A socially conscious space
Bristol feels refreshingly forward-looking. It’s diverse and it’s thoughtful. It’s alternative and it’s outspoken. It’s down-to-earth and it’s human.
Bristol is famous for its independent spirit – the anti-Tesco riots in Stokes Croft, or the Bristol Pound that was designed to keep business within the city, and of course so much more. And that spirit is palpable.
I’m loving the independent spirit here, and that includes the many small businesses. After living in a city in which sky-high commercial rent prices have squeezed out most local business, I realise just how much those creative and local elements make a city.
I can’t wait to connect more with local businesses here, with freelancers, and with the charity sector.
Creative networks and support
I’m starting to discover some of the creative networks that exist here. There are so many extraordinarily talented people, and there is so much mutual support and collaboration.
Bristol Creative Industries is a network that brings together creatives from across the city and beyond. Through that network, I’ve met designers, writers, photographers, voice-over artists, animators, illustrators, musicians, and escape room designers. I’ve also joined a social group for freelancers; it’s a really friendly and collaborative community, run by freelancers for freelancers. And I’ve met some really inspiring women who are creating supportive spaces for female business owners. I’m also benefitting from the NEBES scheme, which supports new enterprises in north and east Bristol through training sessions, forums and 1:1 support. It’s a fantastic resource and it’s making a big difference to me.
People are generous with their time and happy to share their experiences and suggestions. It feels super positive and energetic here, and I’m loving it.
My son is right – moving here was a bright idea. Bristol already feels like home.
