Ep.27 Spreading Your Wings: Finding Freedom & Creativity in Business

With Meena Arch

Guest Name: Meena Arch, Co-owner, Angel Bar

Episode Description:

In this episode with Meena Arch, she emphasises the importance of flexibility and creativity in running a successful business. This includes the value of collaborating with local artists, like the artist who created the iconic angel wing mural, and incorporating their work into the bar’s branding.

Meena also discusses the importance of building strong relationships with staff and prioritising customer experience. She emphasises the significance of a warm welcome and creating a welcoming environment for all patrons.

If you’re looking for inspiration to inject creativity and personality into your own business, this episode is not to be missed.

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Episode Time Codes

00:21 Introduction

00:45 What like about Caversham

01:10 Intro to Meena and Angel Bar

01:38 Meena’s family in hospitality

02:14 Independence verses money

02:36 What Meena likes about hospitality

03:29 How Meena collaborates with local businesses

04:38 First two years in business need to be flexible

05:18 What challenges Angel Bar has faced and overcome

06:43 Unique touches in Angel Bar

07:48 How to divide time as a busy business owner

08:23 Plans for the future

09:24 Advice for anyone who wants to start new business

10:14 Look after your staff first

10:59 Final thoughts

Videos

Key takeaways

The Power of Flexibility: Meena emphasises the importance of being flexible and adaptable in the ever-changing hospitality industry. She shares how she adjusted her initial business plan to better suit customer preferences and market demands, highlighting the importance of listening to your customers and being willing to pivot.

Community Building Through Collaboration: The episode showcases how Angel Bar fosters a sense of community by collaborating with local artists, musicians, and other businesses. This collaborative approach not only enhances the bar’s unique identity but also strengthens the local business ecosystem.

Prioritising Employee Well-being: Meena recognizes the importance of her staff and emphasises the need to keep them engaged and happy. By providing opportunities for growth and offering a variety of experiences, she ensures employee satisfaction and fosters a positive work environment.

Episode references

Meet Amy Barton, the artist who painted the wings in Angel Bar: 

https://www.twolostbirds.co.uk/