AND THE NERVES HAVE KICKED IN!

[Karan]:  We have only five days to go until our Big Birthday Bash and I'm working from home today, leaving Ian and the boys (i.e.: Eddie the electrician and Simon, Ian's glamorous assistant) installing all of the electrical wizardry.  I'm also taking this opportunity to revel in the company of our children, as their Nanny has been hogging them somewhat recently, and I need to catch up on some kisses and cuddles, as my reserves are low.

I have to admit to becoming more than a little nervous about the weekend, which initially didn't make any sense to me.  As I was an Events Organiser in a previous life, I had assumed I would take all the pressure and demands in my stride, but there's one significant difference about this weekend: this is our event, for our business and ultimately for our future - all of the events I have planned in the past have been for other people and their businesses and futures.

Progress is being made at an impressive rate, thanks mainly to us working with only the best in their respective businesses, but I can't help wishing it was all ready and completed, leaving us only to fling the doors open on Monday morning and uncork the wine.  No stone is being left unturned, and Ian and I have both exceeded the Perfectionism Limiter on more than one occasion, but we have to keep reminding ourselves that whilst the pursuit of excellence is motivating, the pursuit of perfection can be demoralising.

There is such an excited air about the place.  Ian and I are really looking forward to catching up with clients who have been with us from the very beginning. Every now and then Ian will ask if I've remembered to invite Mr & Mrs X, Mr Y and Miss Z, and of course I have as I've been working from an 18 year-old customer database that has been lovingly maintained, updated and nurtured.  As IKD has been trading almost entirely on word-of-mouth recommendations, I think Ian is hoping for something of a reunion amongst our customers, as they all know each other one way or another, and it's spooky how small the world sometimes appears to be.

We're also excited about the possibility of meeting new friends. colleagues and customers, and the prospect of a whole new chapter this event may offer IKD Kitchens and the future.  One thing's for sure, we are certainly blessed with great friends, unbelievably supportive family, and the energy and enthusiasm to get it all done on time, on budget and on spec, as ever.

Please come and say "hi", it promises to be a great event with lots of laughs and great kitchen gadgets and gizmos to look at - we'd love to catch up with you, and it really won't be the same without YOU!  See you soon x