Alfie and I have not long got back from our Clogau road trip to do a book signing at three of the stores. We were lucky enough to be invited to spend the afternoon with Clogau Boutique, Westfield, London, the Clogau Outlet Store, Bridgend and Clogau Boutique in Cardiff. Our journey began on the Wednesday 31st January and I left with Alfie and his Ted at midday to travel down to London.
Whilst Alfie’s map reading skills were pretty useless, he made a great passenger and slept most of the way. We made it to London early evening and had a fab evening out at one of our regular haunts Shampers.
Day One of the road trip – Clogau Boutique, Westfield, London
We took a stroll up to Regent’s Park and then had breakfast in Sourced Market, Marylebone a fantastic dog friendly restaurant/deli. At midday we took a black cab to Westfield and met Nada the Manager of the London branch. The team had put on a fantastic welcome area including Prosecco, juice, snacks and of course welsh cakes! Alfie and I met some great people including a group of friends on holiday who treated themselves to the Dog Lover’s Dream charm and gifts. The Clogau team were so professional and friendly and I will visit next time I’m down South (although probably not with Alfie as ordinarily dogs aren’t allowed in Westfield!).
Day two of the road trip – Clogau Outlet Store, Bridgend
Having stayed overnight at The Priory in Bath, our morning walk was round the grounds of the hotel, a pretty walled garden. Our journey to Bridgend didn’t take too long at all. Once again we were met by the fabulous Clogau team headed up by Alex. The weather was fantastic and Alfie and I stood outside to meet and greet the lovely people of Bridgend. The charm proved popular as did Alfie and we did a few signings that day. Once again, customers were treated to some fizz and nibbles as well as cuddles with Alfie Doodle. It was great to meet the Bridgend customers and Clogau staff. I must also say thank you to Jozie from the McArthur Glen Marketing team who came to see us, took some nice photos and helped promote the visit.
Day three of the road trip – Clogau Boutique, Cardiff
We found a decent dog friendly hotel, The Novotel, in the centre of Cardiff and started our day with a walk around Cardiff city centre. There was a real buzz about the city as it was Wales vs Scotland in the Six Nations! Upon arrival at St. David’s shopping arcade, we were escorted by security (!)to the Clogau store. Cardiff is their flagship store and there was a special roped off VIP area for our signing. Alfie attracted the crowds and we did plenty of books signings.
Clogau The Brand!
It was really interesting to see how Clogau as a brand has completely captured the hearts so many people. I met some wonderful people over the three days… customers shared some wonderful Clogau stories with us, especially in Wales where the jewellery is often passed through families as an heirloom. I also got to be part of some special occasions as the reasons customers were buying the charm included a 45th Wedding Anniversary, a 40th Birthday gift, a Valentine’s present and a 25th Birthday treat.
Big thank you’s…
I’d like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all of the staff at the stores for making Alfie and I feel so welcome and a part of your Clogau family for the day! I’d also like to thank Ben, Sonia, Rachel, Matt and the team at Clogau, St.Asaph for allowing me to be part of your brand experience.
Don’t forget…
The Dog Lover’s Dream Milestones Charm is still available with a free matching Dog Tag and signed copy of my book. The initial order run sold out within the first weekend of launch, but more are on their way so you can still get your pre-order in!
A Dog Lover’s Dream Social MEDIA
If you want to see more pictures from the Clogau Road Trip and to keep up with mine and Alfie’s adventures, why not take a look at our social pages?