It was a few months ago that we came across the ‘Backed By‘ competition run by American Express:
“If you need a boost to get you on the right path towards your goals, having the right kind of support network is key” – explained the competition guidelines.
American Express had partnered up with legendary chef and entrepreneur Gizzi Erskine, so it was a no-brainer that we entered. We sent off our application, but it still came as an enormous shock when we got a phone call two weeks ago, letting us know that we had been shortlisted in the final ten and that we needed to meet up with Gizzi for an interview.
Problem. Clara had a newborn … I was in the depths of Cornwall … but luckily the organisers said that we could arrange a Facetime conversation instead. So it was that I found myself a bit sunburned and sweaty, seven hours into an over-ambitious walk (see above) when I dived off the South West Coastal Path to speak spices with Gizzi.
Her interest, support and words of encouragement meant the world … having spent so long incubating our idea, we occasionally worried that we were existing in an insulated little bubble – so it still comes as enormous excitement (and relief!) when others agree that there’s an idea in single origin spices and blends.
Still, we never expected TO WIN!!!
What a wonderful boost! What’s more, our prize is mentoring from Gizzi, which will begin in two week’s time. Apparently there will be a video camera there to capture the experience, so watch this space and we’ll definitely be sharing more here.