From Flowers to Friendships: Join Our October Networking Meeting
- Andrea Stephenson
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
Date: Thursday 16 October 2025
Time: From 8:30 AM (arrive any time that suits you)
Venue: Forget Me Not Flower Designers & Flower School, The Old Bank, 4 Main Street, Shildon DL4 1DB
Cost: Free to attend, breakfast included
A Warm Welcome in a Historic Venue
Our October Bishop and Shildon Networking Event takes place in one of the town’s most unique venues: the beautifully restored Old Bank on Shildon’s Main Street, now home to Forget Me Not Flower Designers & Flower School. Built in 1899, this historic landmark has been transformed into a vibrant creative hub by Kathryn, who has grown her floral business into a thriving mix of design and teaching.
This event is part of our regular Bishop and Shildon networking series—bringing together businesses from both towns and across County Durham to connect, collaborate and share ideas.
Kathryn, our host, has transformed the space into a thriving floral business, offering everything from bespoke event designs to engaging workshops. She’ll be sharing her journey with us during the meeting, giving insight into building a successful creative brand in County Durham.
What You Can Expect
We’ll start the morning with bacon or veggie sandwiches and a chance to mingle. Around 9:00 AM, Kathryn will talk us through her story before inviting everyone to take part in a short, hands-on flower arrangement activity. No experience is needed—it’s a light-hearted way to spark creativity and try something different.
The rest of the session is all about making connections. Share what you do, exchange ideas, and hear updates on what’s happening across the local business community. It’s a supportive and relaxed environment where you can promote your work, celebrate good news, or ask for introductions.
Why Attend the Bishop and Shildon Networking Event?
This is more than just networking. It’s a chance to:
Meet fellow business owners and professionals from across Shildon, Bishop Auckland and the wider County Durham area.
Share your story, ask for advice, or simply enjoy the conversation.
Learn from a local entrepreneur who’s built a successful creative business.
Experience a short, interactive workshop that adds a unique twist to the morning.
Who Should Come Along?
Whether you run a shop, manage a service, freelance, or lead a growing team, you’ll be welcome. Our events bring together a mix of businesses, community organisations and professionals, all keen to collaborate and support each other. If you’re new to networking, this is a particularly friendly place to start.
Practical Details
The venue is located on Main Street in Shildon, just a short distance from the railway station and local bus routes. Parking is available nearby. Dress casually, bring some business cards if you have them, and most importantly - come ready to chat.
Save the Date
Join us on Thursday 16 October 2025 from 8:30 AM for the Bishop and Shildon Networking Event, hosted by Kathryn at Forget Me Not Flower Designers & Flower School.
It’s free, breakfast is provided, and you’ll leave with fresh ideas, new contacts and maybe even a little floral inspiration.
To find out more, contact Craig Mayhew (Business Engagement Office, Business Durham) at craig.mayhew2@durham.gov.uk.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Book your free place below
