From solicitor to being her own boss...

... Louise is glad she took the plunge!

Louise Knight is our newest franchisee, having just launched in Hampshire and West Sussex.  Before joining the Puddle Ducks family, Louise was a successful solicitor but wanted to take more control of her own life.  She runs her business with the help of husband, Robert, and their gorgeous little boy, Thomas.

 I caught up with Louise just a few weeks into her launch, to find out how she was getting on:

You were obviously a very successful solicitor before - what did you love about that?

I loved the technical challenge and helping guide others through complicated processes.  I also loved having a job where I met with a variety of different clients on a regular basis.

 When did you realise you wanted to do something different?

Although I enjoyed my job, after having my little boy and returning to work part time I realised that I wanted to do something that gave me more flexibility to fit around my family life whilst still providing me with a challenge and working with people.

 So what was your thought process that lead you to Puddle Ducks?

Swimming has always been a big part of my life and even more so when I started taking my son to swimming lessons at 2 months old.  I wanted to run my own business and I had enjoyed swimming with my son so much that when I came across Puddle Ducks and found the opportunity to combine the two it seemed an obvious choice.

 Did you consider any other career options, Louise?

I looked at other franchises and business ideas but none of them caught my attention like Puddle Ducks.  I immediately fell in love both with the programme and the scope that it offers ranging from aqua natal classes to the swim academy.  I have loved seeing my son and his little friends grow into water confident toddlers and am delighted to provide that opportunity to others.  The friendliness and support of the Puddle Ducks Head Office team which I received from my initial enquiry to date has confirmed that I have made the right choice.

 How different is it compared to what you expected?

I thought I knew what to expect but it has all been very different – in a good enjoyable way!

 What would you say to someone who is considering giving up employment and starting a business?

Be brave and follow your instinct!

 And finally, what is so great about Puddle Ducks West Sussex?!

We have lots of energy and enthusiasm to bring a fantastic and popular programme to Hampshire and West Sussex!