TEDCO caught up with Beverley Williams of The Cozy Corner in Jarrow to find out how she started her business and about her wish to provide warmth, fun and great food for the people of Jarrow.
With support from the Start Up South Tyneside programme, funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by TEDCO Business Support on behalf of South Tyneside Council, Beverley started her business. We had a quick chat with her to find out more…
First of all, tell us about The Cozy Corner in Jarrow
“We are a small coffee shop on the corner of a built up housing estate. We have a little corner for the children with some toys, books and a little table with crafts on. We sell a range of hot and cold drinks, a selection of cold sandwiches, paninis, homemade soup, beef dips and daily specials. We have a lovely selection of desserts, cheesecakes, brownies, scones, all our food is homemade on the premises. It’s a really cosy and inviting place for people to meet for a cuppa, where their children are welcome (and so are the dogs)!”
Why did you decide to start the business?
“My family and friends have always complimented my cakes and I have thought about starting a business for a few years. I had also thought about providing the local community with a hub where families could spend time, in a safe space.
There was an empty shop in my local area so I decided to take a look. There was of work to be done to bring it back to full use but after lots of blood, sweat, tears and a rotting floor, we finally opened in December 2023.”
Before you started, what was your biggest worry about becoming self employed?
“I knew how to bake, and how to provide a warm welcome, but I knew I needed support with the process of running a business – the tax, accounts etc. That’s where TEDCO Business Support came in.”
“My Business Advisor, Mark Johnston, was very helpful. He gave us information, links and advice. It’s a stressful time starting a business but when I had a couple of panics about things, Mark was always there reply to my emails with support and reassurance.”
If you had to name just one part of running your business as the most rewarding, what would it be?
“Seeing the children playing happily while the adults enjoy a drink and a chat. We recently ran some Breakfast or Tea with Mickey and Minnie Mouse sessions which were hugely popular with parents and carers as well as the children . They had a wonderful time and we’ll be running similar events in the future.”
Tell us what people are saying about The Cozy Corner
I particularly love this Facebook review. I am so grateful for the support from the whole community.
“An amazing little coffee and cake shop. Had plenty of selection and staff were lovely. A friendly atmosphere, dog corner as well as a kids play corner, win win. I enjoyed a lovely catch up with my friend today and we didn’t feel rushed at all. Will definitely recommend this place.”
Start Up South Tyneside is a business Start up programme delivered by TEDCO Business Support on behalf of South Tyneside Council which aims to support local residents with their aspirations to start up a business.
To find out more about our courses, click here. To see more from The Cozy Corner, check out their Facebook page here.