27 Feb 2025
International Women’s Day, which takes place annually on 8th March, celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also emphasises a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.
To mark International Women’s Day 2025, St Albans City Centre BID asked female business owners in the BID area to share their experiences and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Caroline Hogarth, Founder, a fold of chairs :
“I started my business at 40 after spending years at home raising my four children. It was an overwhelming step. I loved the idea of building something for myself, but I struggled to find examples of others who had done the same at that age. I worried I didn’t have enough experience, or that I wouldn’t be taken seriously. But I did it anyway.
What I’ve learned is that experience doesn’t always come in a straight line. The years I spent managing a home, solving problems, and juggling responsibilities gave me skills that serve me every day in running a business. Patience, resilience, adaptability; these are life skills but also business skills.
For women thinking of starting something new, whether it’s a career change, a side hustle, or a business, I would say that it’s never too late. The path may not be clear at first, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth taking. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, trust your instincts, and don’t let fear be the thing that holds you back.
On International Women’s Day, I want to remind every woman that your past experiences are not limitations, they are your strength. Whatever stage of life you’re in.”
a fold of chairs
3B London Rd, St Albans AL1 1LA
