A 'POP-UP' tea room business which organises events from Mad Hatter's tea parties to craft afternoons to hen soirees has been put forward in this year's Proud of Barnsley Awards for best start-up.
Strawberry Secret Vintage Tea Room is run by Charissa Hambleton who organise events at a secret location which is revealed only after tickets have been purchased.
The business has been nominated by customer Lindsey Barclay, of Bloomfield Road, Darton, who bought tickets for the Mad Hatter's Tea Party to celebrate her brother's birthday.
It was set in a room with two large tables, vintage crockery, pretty decorative cake stands and glassware.
In her nomination, Lindsey said: "I really admire Charissa for taking the plunge and just going for it, taking her small idea and passion, just running with it and making it a huge success. The vintage lifestyle is very current and popular at the moment with shabby chic being all the rage, everyone is wanting that hand/home made experience that makes us all feel special. Charissa's tea party experience certainly has that personal touch and she has very cleverly tapped into this modern fascination of times gone by."
There was only a handful of tickets for each event which many people are now trying to get their hands on.
"It was a wonderful afternoon of scrumptious food, interesting conversation and much laughter. I loved every moment and every mouthful. Charissa loves all things vintage and wanted to share her passion for beautiful things and love of tea parties. She really is an inspiration and is living proof that your dreams can come true if you are willing to go and get them.
"This business is not yet her day job but I think its only a matter of time before it takes over. Knowing that she is also holding down a full time job whilst living her dream makes me admire her all the more."
