Our team of company representatives love to come and visit you in your shop and show you our beautiful accessories. So often they are welcomed with open arms and make true friends through their travels across the country.
We thought it would be nice to share a little more about our team so that you can get to know them before they come and visit you for the first time, or even if you’ve seen them many times before!
Jennifer
First-up, we have Jennifer who many of you will have spoken to over the phone, and met at Harrogate shows. Jennifer is our Business Development Coordinator and keeps the reps on the road behind the scenes. Here’s a little more about Jennifer:
What is your role at RD?
I work in the sales team as a Business Development Coordinator. This role involves speaking to the customers on a regular basis to check they are happy with everything, and arranging a visit from a sales representative if necessary.
What is your favourite part of the job?
I have really enjoyed working in the bridal wear industry, mostly because the people within it are so nice and friendly. I enjoy speaking to customers every day, especially when they have time for a bit of a chat! Attending the BBEH twice a year is also something I really look forward to, as well as the time afterwards when we have lots of new customers to catch up with.
What is your background – what did you do before joining the RD team?
I studied Economics at university, and spent two years after graduating working as an economist for a consultancy. While working there I came to Harrogate twice a year to help on the Richard Designs stands since my partner, William, worked for the firm. I really enjoyed doing this and never wanted to go back to my regular job afterwards! I therefore jumped at the chance of working for Richard Designs when I was offered this job.
Tell us a little about your upcoming wedding!
William and I are very excited to be getting married in May this year. Our ceremony will be held in Ely Cathedral, followed by a reception at a hotel in Newmarket. I’m looking forward to wearing a beautiful Richard Designs veil and tiara to compliment my dress, although I’ve no idea how I’ll be able to choose..!
Tell us a fun fact about you…
My favourite TV shows include Neighbours, Desperate Housewives, The X Factor and, of course, Don’t Tell the Bride!
Peter
Our newest rep Peter has only been with us for a few months but has already proven very popular with our customers. Peter has been soaking up all the information about wedding accessories and we appreciate you all welcoming him into your shops for the first time. Peter is covering the North of the UK so you should see him around in the coming months.
How long have you been working at RD?
I started mid Jan 2012
What has surprised you most about the wedding industry since you started working for RD?
The pace of changing fashions.
What is your favourite part of the job?
I love meeting new and interesting people.
What is your background?
I have always been in sales, even my childhood was spent on market stalls. My mum and dad had market stalls and my mum used to take me in a carry cot at 6 months old.
Tell us a fun fact about you…
I used to be a dry ski slope instructor!
Chris
Chris has also recently joined the team, and has fallen in love with the job. With a natural ability to show our delicate products, and a friendly smile, Chris has already made an positive impact on his area of the South of the UK.
How long have you been working at RD?
Since the end of December 2011
What has surprised you most about the wedding industry since you started working for RD?
Its focus on providing an excellent personal service to brides, rather than just selling products.
What is your favourite part of the job?
Going to the shops, meeting the owners and seeing the businesses develop and supporting them in this.
What are you hoping to do in the future to improve things for customers?
To better understand their needs and forward feedback to the management team so we can better meet their needs.
What is your background?
Teaching abroad, and local government. In all my roles, dealing with people has been central. Most recently I was working on supporting staff through changes to modernise working practices. I love the focus on people in this new role.
Tell us a fun fact about you…
I spend quite a bit of time in Spain, where my girlfriend lives.
Ben
Last but certainly not least, our Senior Sales Executive Ben who many of you will have met at shows and on the road over the past few years. There’s not much Ben doesn’t know about the product and the industry and he is always happy to help with any questions you have about wedding accessories.
How long have you been working at RD?
Since May 2010, so nearly two years.
What has surprised you most about the wedding industry since you started working for RD?
Everybody is so friendly, it is a happy time when brides come to the shop, so everybody is happy. Also I think I had underestimated how much ladies love sparkly tiaras!
What is your favourite part of the job?
I love being out on the road and seeing customers and their shops. When you have been to a shop a couple of times it is lovely to see things change and develop.
What are you hoping to do in the future to improve things for customers?
My main goal is to continue developing my knowledge and understanding of the business so I can offer better advice!
What is your background?
I have a background in Chemistry, with a degree I studied for in Cambridge, before working in the chemical industry for 11 years. However I have been involved with the business way back since 2005, when I would take time off from my job to come to Harrogate and help out the family on the stand – Harrogate was my twice yearly holiday!
Tell us a fun fact about you…
I am getting married in July this year.
If you would like to see Peter, Chris or Ben and the new collections, just give Jennifer a call on 01353 661600 or email jennifer@richarddesigns.co.uk and she will arrange an appointment for you. Remember, all appointments have no obligation to buy and no minimum order, and all our reps are happy to help advise you on the best selling styles and latest trends.
