05/01/2023
New Year, New Start 🎇
Introducing the lovely Sarah Murphy, who is our franchise owner for Pop Up Play Village in North of Bristol. Here’s Sarah’s franchise story!
What did you do before you had a career in play?
I have worked in the children’s entertainment industry since I was 15 years old starting with working in my local soft play centre! I have always loved having fun with children and it brings me so much joy to be part of their learning, playing and excitement. I have worked in 3 different soft play centres, created green screen animation films with children, ran hotel holiday clubs, hosted birthday parties and worked as a nanny.
Why did you join Pop Up Play Village?
I had to take several years out of the industry due to having a stroke in 2015. This wiped me out and I was absolutely gutted that I couldn’t keep up with the pace of children’s entertainment. Since having my daughter, my mind had been playing with the idea of setting up my own business, working with children again and specifically running children’s birthday parties. I was on furlough when the advert for Pop Up Play Village appeared in my news feed and I was instantly interested. I’d never even heard of franchising and this was the perfect solution for me. I knew I could create a successful children’s entertainment business but actually starting my own business was terrifying!! This was the perfect option for me, with the awesome support we receive from Becky and the rest of the franchise team I have seen my business grow and flourish – despite the naughty C word!
When you’re not playing, what do you enjoy?
I have a 4-year-old daughter so my free time is spent predominantly with her! We love family days out, walking and visiting family in Norfolk and the Forest of Dean.
What play plans do you have for the future?
I want to give up my day job (which I currently do 3 days a week alongside the Village) and make this my full-time job. My focus for the new year will be gaining regular contracts with schools and EYFS settings to make this dream a reality.
What’s your highlight so far …..
🥳PARTIES! Naturally I love birthday parties, it’s my thing! I have been part of so many “first” birthday parties, even if it’s a child’s 3rd, 4th or 5th birthday. Many children have not had a proper birthday party and finally they get to have their special day, all about them and it really is my privilege to be a part of that. I have developed my party offering to be a 100% stress free experience for the families using my services and the feedback I get from them is amazing.
And finally, what’s your favourite play area?
Oh tricky! I think it would have to be the Café! The children always flock to this area and they absolutely love the variety and toys and play opportunities here. They always choose the cakes and chips and find it so funny to serve mummy a cup of silly tea (ketchup and sausage tea anyone?!)
If you would like to find out more about joining the Pop Up Play Village family, enquire today at our website: https://popupplayvillage.co.uk/franchising/
