My Shanghai, an Urban Family series where we ask a Shanghai-based somebody to tell us about their life.
As a new mom trying to have it all, Angie Swann explains how her son’s partly self-catered birthday party turned into her events and catering business Party Platters. A success story for any aspiring momtrepreneur!
How did you come up with the idea for your business?
Without realizing it, there were a combination of factors at play; one of which was getting back to work while still having time with my son as he grew up. The idea came about after my son’s first birthday. We wanted to incorporate some traditional British afternoon tea theming to the party (in-line with our British roots) while keeping costs down by making some of the food ourselves. The sandwiches, scones and other finger food were a huge hit at the party, and resulted in many parents asking if I could do something similar for their children. With the encouragement and full support of my other half Will (possibly to keep me out of his hair too!), I spent a month researching, mystery shopping to figure out the competition, costing and trialling - and then Party Platters was established.
You have a young son and a day job - how do you juggle it all?
My son Hugo is 19 months old and very active. Honestly, I won’t lie, sometimes it can be very challenging trying to fit everything into the day. I am very lucky to have Will’s support, and his help taking over baby duties before and after work when necessary. The main reason I decided to pursue this business was the flexibility, it enables me to enjoy being a new mom and spend these precious first years with my son before he starts kindergarten.
What is your career background?
My background is predominantly in the finance industry. I worked for Merrill Lynch in the UK for 8 years before moving to Dubai in 2008, and then onto Shanghai in 2011 to work for Austen Morris Associates. This is also where my other half, Will Coppin, currently works as a Senior Partner.
Do you have previous catering experience?
I have no professional work experience in the catering industry, just a love of food and a creative mind which have helped me make it this far. I am not offering anything people cannot do themselves (if they had the time!). As a new mom, I identified a gap in the market; to create traditional cakes, sandwiches and finger food that complement any occasion, including children’s parties, events and corporate meetings, and I tried to create a menu that appeals to both locals and expats. I believe my customer service background gives me a huge advantage moving forward, as I take the time to understand what is expected and I am honest with what I can deliver in order to manage these expectations. I want to go that little bit further to make a difference, so satisfied customers will recommend me to their friends and colleagues.
What inspires you?
I’ve always enjoyed working, setting myself new challenges and never aspired to be a stay-at-home mom, so my inspiration comes from wanting the best of both, going to work every day and being a full-time mom.
What is next for Party Platters?
Party Platters started as a small catering company offering finger food for mainly children’s parties. Due to feedback and demand from happy customers we are now growing more towards an events company, running parallel to the catering side. After no time at all we sponsored a British Consulate event, which catapulted us into the corporate arena.
What advice would you give to other young mothers looking to start a business?
If you are thinking to start a business I would say Shanghai is the best place for it, there are so many ‘momtrepreneurs’ it’s amazing. From my experience, everyone along my journey has been extremely supportive and helpful. Don’t be afraid to fail, you only live once and who knows what’s around the corner.
For more information on how Party Platters can be a part of your next event, contact Angie Swann.
For more My Shanghai series, click here.
