Luke and I both grew up surrounded by a family business, so this way of life feels completely natural to us. Luke’s parents ran a dairy farm in Hertfordshire, while my parents owned pubs around the Oxford area. Growing up in a family business teaches you responsibility early and gives you a strong work ethic without even realising it.
Life in a family business always feels busy, but it also feels purposeful. There is always something that needs doing, and everyone plays their part. That constant teamwork shaped how we work today and how we approach challenges together. It also taught us the value of pulling together when things get tough.
Looking back, growing up this way also shaped our views on relationships. You learn quickly how important communication, patience, and compromise really are. Working together every day can either strengthen bonds or test them completely. We truly believe that if you can work together seven days a week, you can get through anything.
The original idea came from Luke’s mum and her secret triple chocolate brownie recipe. When I first met Luke, I attended a family party where his mum handed me a tray of brownies. One bite was enough to convince me they were something special. I told her she should sell them, and that simple comment planted the seed for our future.
We officially started our family business in 2019 with huge hopes for the future. Not long after, the pandemic changed everything. The entire purpose of our family business was to raise our children together and work at our own pace. We wanted flexibility and didn’t want to miss precious moments as they grew up.
Covid forced us to adapt quickly while juggling two young children and no childcare. It felt daunting, but we made it work. During that time, Luke’s parents and sister moved to Suffolk to join us, which felt incredibly special. Family has always mattered deeply to us, so raising our children close to loved ones felt like a dream.
Our family business truly became a family effort. Luke’s sister helps with admin and seasonal packing, and her children pitch in after school. Luke’s mum bakes alongside us, while Luke’s dad helps with driving. Over the years, every family member has supported the business in some way, including busy festivals and Christmas packing marathons.
Luke says owning a family business is the best way to live. It demands flexibility and commitment, but our different skills balance each other perfectly. Although switching off can feel tricky sometimes, difficult days remain rare.
We are very excited to also tell you that we won Family Business of the Year at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards for two years in a row (2024 and 2025). It is truly a testament to the hard work and dedication the whole family has put in over the years.
Thank you for supporting our small family business. Your support allows us to do work we love while raising our children together.
