Living and Running a Business on the Isle of Wight: A Unique Island Experience

Welcome to the Isle of Wight, a place where rolling green hills meet the sparkling blue sea, and where life takes on a slower, more serene pace. As a resident and business owner on this beautiful island, you’re part of a community that cherishes its natural beauty, embraces creativity, and faces some distinctive challenges. In this blog post, we’ll explore what it’s truly like to live and run a business such as Say It With Brownies here.

The Upsides

1. Natural Beauty

The Isle of Wight has breathtaking landscapes, from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches. Whether you’re strolling along the coastal paths or exploring the enchanting woodlands, nature is your constant companion. The island’s beauty inspires creativity and provides a tranquil backdrop for both work and play. There are few places I can think of to match the diversity and beauty of the Isle of Wight.

2. Community Spirit

Islanders are known for their warmth and friendliness. When we moved over in the summer of 2011, we were surprised how friendly and welcoming everyone was. Sometimes you hear horror stories about new people not being welcome, but we experienced the total opposite to this. You’ll find a tight-knit community that supports one another, whether it’s through local events, neighbourhood gatherings, or collaborative business ventures. Networking isn’t just about business; it’s about building genuine connections.

3. Festivals and Events

Summer on the Isle of Wight is a whirlwind of festivals, carnivals, and outdoor concerts. From the iconic Isle of Wight Festival to smaller village fairs, there’s always something happening. As a business owner, these events provide excellent opportunities for promotion and engagement. I prefer to run Say It With Brownies as online only business, but for others there are lots of opportunities to get in front of potential customers.

4. Beaches and Sunshine

With over 500 miles of public footpaths and sunnier weather than most of the UK, the Isle of Wight is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Imagine brainstorming your next business idea while sitting on a sun-drenched beach, the waves gently lapping at your toes. For me, it’s all about horses! I have three horses who I ride daily, and that’s my opportunity to wind down and do what I love when I’m not making brownies.

5. Proximity and Facilities

Despite its small size, the island offers all the essentials. Supermarkets, schools, cinemas, and even bowling alleys are within reach. Plus, you’re never more than 25 minutes away from any corner of the island. It strikes the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. We don’t have too many ‘chain’ restaurants, instead we have an amazing selection of independent eateries and I’d challenge anyone not to be impressed. When we first moved to the island we chose a village called Seaview, on the north east corner of the island. After a few years we decided we’d like to be somewhere more ‘rural’, so moved to a village called Shorwell on the South West side. But nothing is very far away!

The Challenges

1. Delivery Dilemmas

Some delivery companies still hesitate to venture across the Solent. As a business owner, you’ll need to navigate this limitation by finding reliable couriers or considering alternative shipping methods. But hey, at least your packages get a scenic ferry ride! Luckily for me, Royal Mail runs a great service and treats the island the same as the mainland. My brownies usually arrive next day by Tracked24 post, even if they have to go to Northern Ireland or Scotland!

2. Ferry Costs

Ah, the ferries—the gateway to the mainland. While they connect you to bustling cities and markets, they come at a price. Business expenses can add up quickly, especially if you rely on frequent trips. Budgeting wisely becomes essential. Fortunately for me, running Say It With Brownies never involves travelling across the Solent so this isn’t too much of an issue in my work life.

3. Winter Quieteness

When winter arrives, the island takes a deep breath. Tourists retreat, and the pace slows down. For business owners, this can mean quieter months. However, many embrace the solitude, enjoying brisk seaside walks and reflective moments. For me, business tends to take a similar pace all year round. There are peak times at Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter and Father’s Day. But otherwise I tend to enjoy the quiet of the winter months.

4. Healthcare and Services

While the Isle of Wight offers essential healthcare services, some specialties may require a trip to the mainland. NHS dentists can be scarce, and outpatient appointments might involve a ferry ride. Planning ahead is crucial. Definitely something to consider if you are thinking of relocating to the Isle of Wight.

5. Uneven Demographics

The island’s population varies significantly—from retirees seeking tranquility to young families and entrepreneurs. Understanding your target audience and adapting your business accordingly is essential. Many of my customers are island based, but I’d struggle if I was wholly reliant on the island as a market.

Conclusion

Living and running Say It With Brownies on the Isle of Wight has been an awesome adventure and one that I’ve enjoyed. I’ve embraced the challenges, soaked in the beauty, and connected with my fellow islanders. Whether you’re baking brownies or launching a tech startup, this unique island will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

So, dear entrepreneur, raise your cup of tea (or perhaps a locally brewed ale), and toast to the Isle of Wight—a place where community, creativity, and coastline collide.

P.S. Don’t forget to enjoy those stunning sunsets.

Anita – 5th March 2024