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To celebrate World Cupcake Day, we caught up with our client I Love Café. Charlotte Birkett own’s I Love Café in Kinmont Arcade, Carlisle with her Mum Kerry Birkett. Their small café is small, quirky and friendly. They sell homemade food and cakes. Everything is made by themselves and Charlotte’s Granny Janet Blacklock.

How has Coronavirus affected your business?

Coronavirus meant that we had to close our café on 21 March.

How have you adapted your business to the current situation?

We have adapted our business by selling takeaway traybake selection boxes, brownie and cookie boxes and cake jars. We have collections from the café door twice a week and we also deliver in the Carlisle area. This has been so successful and we are totally overwhelmed by the response we have had from our customers.

Have you always wanted to own a café, if not what did you aspire to be as a child?

I trained as a makeup artist at Carlisle College but decided to have a change of direction. After working in the café the opportunity came up to buy the business. My Mum worked as a finance assistant for Cumbria County Council for almost 30 years, but left in February to be more involved with our business.

What do you feel most proud of in your life to date?

I feel most proud of overcoming personal challenges and becoming the owner of my own business.

What drew you to working with David Allen, and how has your business progressed as a result?

David Allen was recommended by a family member. We have been given advice on our tax affairs and purchasing a company vehicle.

Describe working with the David Allen team in three words.

Helpful, knowledgeable and reliable.

What does the future hold, how will David Allen help with this?

In the future we would like to expand our business further, maybe moving on to bigger premises and expanding the takeaway side. David Allen would provide expertise, helping advise us on the best financial advice such as tax and VAT matters.

What is the first piece of advice you would give an aspiring Business person?

I would advise them to get good financial advice and make sure your family and friends are on board to help you.

What is your Monday Motivation?

My Monday motivation is to make people happy in this uncertain time by providing homemade lock down treats.