.What students have said about our 'Business Start-up' and 'Entrepreneurship' workshops
'I have been on many courses. This has been life changing in its relevance to an artist with experience, but directionless. I can't wait ti digest all I have learnt and put it into practise. Thank you' Jill Orpen - Photographer
'I have come away from this course feeling so much more confident about what I have to offer as an individual and a creative artist. Very Inspiring' Tamryn de Klerk - Stylist
'This course has inspired me to actually get cracking on my artistic career. I've learned loads of really useful stuff and really enjoyed the group dynamics' Jude Evans - Painter www.judeevenas.theartistweb.com
'Now I feel like being more focused in what I do best, instead of trying to improve all my passions' Maria Sanz Martins - Stylist www.noprovador.com
'I really enjoyed this course, it gave me an introduction to marketing and has given me more confidence in self-presentation' Thea Hoff Damli - Fashion Designer
'Alison teaches an information rich class that is both insightful and hands on. Areas that I need to develop were highlighted. Appropriate and valuable information for setting up in business' Anne-Marie Perks - Illustrator
'I have known Alison through various capacities of which one of them was receiving advice from her vast knowledge of business, which is sound. Her advice is always very clear, simple and precise. If I were to recommend anyone she would be the top of the list for business advice as well as being very supportive person to anyone she meets' Jon Gershon - Artist & Designer www.onart.eu
'I have a much clearer idea about areas essential to the professional business of illustration - I have felt a very definite and positive shift in my mind set and I now feel I have a good foundation to build upon and increased confidence. Thank you' Lorna Barker - Artist
'I found Allison to be really friendly and professional. She made me aware of organizations and benefits I wasn't even aware of. Thanks to her, being an artist in London is a bit easier' James Hayden Smith - Artist
'The course helped me to get started as it covered a broad range of subjects! Thank you!' Chinatsu Sunaga - illustrator
'Alison's advice is invaluable. After 14 years in business, I didn't know what to expect to learn but was shocked at the massive gaps in my knowledge of my own industry and the concrete facts which would have madder life so different had I known them years ago' Kate Wells - Illustrator
"Alison Branagan is the first and only step to take for anyone thinking of stating a creative business." M.Ritzema - Chocolate Artisan
A well thought-out course covering the essentials of good business practice - it's given me fresh confidence - and I've had a great time' Pascale Carrington - Illustrator www.pascalcarrington.com
I think the course was a good introduction to the business world of illustration it taught me a lot about where I wish to be' Roja Kerr - Illustrator
'An interesting insight into the business side of the profession, that no-one teaches you. Very in depth and well presented. Thank you!' Irene Katsoni - Artist www.irenekatsoni.com
e'Alison is a genius- the course was brilliant and has really given me the way forward for my work. It was money well spent and I highly recommend it to anyone in the creative industries' Di Murphy - Illustrator dimurphy.co.uk
'Alison's classes were very well thought out and quite inspirational. She gives you enough information and energy to go out and continue learning yourselves' Leighton Johns - Mural Painter www.leightonjohns.co.uk
As a freelance artist I couldn't think of a more perfect person to go to for creative business advice. Alison Branagan is not only a lovely and very 'user friendly' person but she is also extremely knowledgeable in her field and imparts information in a very easy to digest manor. This has been particularly important for me as an artist as I have the ability to get quite overwhelmed with all the business side of things as it's something that has the ability to addle my brain. Alison immediately identified areas in my business that needed attention and gave me useful suggestions, contacts/resource numbers and literature to take away with me. After a two hour session with Alison I felt extremely inspired and confident to get on with the tasks at hand. One of the other big pluses…and I can't empathize this enough, is that Alison has 'been there and done it' in terms of being a practicing artist herself and could totally relate to where I was coming from…not like some business advisors that I've seen!' Lara Tremayne - artist and workshop leader
I first met Alison on her 'Setting up Business within the Creative Arts' course back in 2003. Since then Alison has been an invaluable source of information, advice and encouragement. She has given me the confidence to help my business grow and has and still keeps me in a professional work mode, including help in negotiating with customers and remembering to value my skills and not to sell myself too short!I totally recommend Alison's business help to anyone thinking of starting up or who are already a creative business and looking for advice or ideas to develop further in their chosen field. She is a good listener and through her experience will help support and guide you to where you want to be' Helen Winder - Poster Conservator
'This course covers a lot of information in a short time and helps point you in the direction of what to do in the future' Monique Luttin - Milliner www.moniqueluttin.com
'Good starting point, very inspiring, really gets you going, a lot ofinformation is givem on the course, fantastic!!!' Biba Fox - Jewellery Designer
'The Course is excellent, extremely informative, yet incredibly fun and enjoyable. I would highly recommend it to any creative looking to start up a business' Jim Church - Eco-Furniture Designer www.scrapdesign.com
'I really enjoyed the course, it clarifies and brings to life everyday marketing techniques that can easily be applied' Imogen Stevens - PR Consultant
'The content of this course is very useful for those wishing to start up their own creative business' Franki Knaggs - Textile Designer www.frankiknaggs.com
'This has been a thoroughly informative course with a fantastic frame of reference provided for starting a business. It really added to the course to have guest speakers/experts in their fields' Bella Towse - Illustrator
'The course was a good eye opener to the knowledge I have been lacking, I feel it has given me the tools to carry on with my work' Damilola Oshilaja - Painter www.grungestudios.com
'This course has inspired me to get on with starting a business. Most of all being surrounded by other people doing the same has made it seem very possible' Eleanor Wilson - Designer
'Alison's course provided the nuts and bolts of business start-up for the clueless artist coming straight out from art schools' Melody Hu - Fashion Designer
'This was a very useful course there was a lot of information packed into the three days and something that was aimed at creative people that you can't find elsewhere' Nerys Pearson - Designer-maker
'Great course, I've opened my mind and eyes in understanding how to market my art and take control of what I have - Thank you' Samuel Alexander Gough-Yates www.myspace.com/mightystreetart
'The Business Start-up was amazing. Crammed full of useful information,to help me in the world of business' Ben Barber - Product Designer (Accessories)
"As part of a programme run by Business Link London, Alison really helped me with the start of my businesses with her advice and many other references she provided. Many businesses like mine would not start up and get on a solid footing without the advice of consultants like Alison"
Talal Malik - CEO Alpha 1 Estates International
"I have stayed in regular contact with Alison since attending one of her courses 5 years ago. She is an invaluable source of unexpected tips, tricks and knowledge, which she shares generously with her clients. Above all she wants her clients to succeed"
David Davies - Artist
"My session with Alison Branagan allowed me to have the opportunity to reflect on my practice in depth and to gain constructive feedback in a one to one environment. After the session I was able to make changes which have encouraged me to become more organised in my work"
Harjeet Kaur - Freelance Artist
"Alison's perspective and honesty regarding the art world keeps things true. She presents her information in a manner which allows clients to embrace rather than run from the business side of this industry. Her "keep it real" approach is a necessary preparation to surviving and thriving in the professional creative arena"
Karl Grupe www.karlgrupe.com
"I attended one of Alison's Business Start-Up courses in 2002 and was extremely impressed with her knowledge and understanding of how to start up a business. What appealed to me is that she is actually has started and run her own business and therefore knows first-hand what she is talking about. She has an easy going, approachable manner (and great sense of humour) that makes one feel quite at ease. The course was a tremendous kick-start for me. I doubt that I would have started my business for another year when, in fact, I started it within a week after completing her course"
Leeann Olivier www.virtuallee.co.uk
"Through Alison's business advisory session I have become aware of how many factors do play a vital role in the process of establishing a creative business and this has subsequently enabled me to take steps necessary to carry the framework for realising my artistic work to the next level"
Martina von Holn
"Having left permanent employment and launched a self employed career within a space of two months, I found Alison's initial advice and continuing support invaluable"
Daniel Lehan www.daniel-lehan.com
"Alison was extremely effective at helping me to step back and take a wider more objective look at every aspect of my creative business. She provided valuable, targeted advice enabling me to focus on key areas. A wholly positive exercise!"
Ranjit Jhita www.wonderfuel.co.uk
"I have received business advice from Alison Branagan on setting up and furthering my business in the creative sector. This advice has been invaluable to me in providing confidence and a proactive approach to expanding my client base. The advice was professional and clear and I am in the process of implementing the suggested targets and seeing positive results."
Emily Druiff MA - Freelance Curator
"If you are a creative looking to make a business out of your art then, I would strongly recommend that you consult with Alison. It is a well known fact that creatives do not think on the same terms as traditional pen-pushers.....and it is therefore important for them to communicate with someone from a creative background.
Alison's advice is clear cut, concise and easy to understand.....especially the business plan! she is encouraging and supportive and will definitely help guide you in the right direction, the only thing missing is her magic wand............she is almost too good to be true!!!"
Edith Flore (Designer maker - Accessories
"A fabulous course, which I would recommend to anyone wishing to succeed as a creative person. You are incredibly generous with your knowledge. Thank you for a fantastic week"
Daphne Day
"Alison's course covers just about everything one needs to know when venturing into creative business"
Samuel Wingate www.wingateprint.com
"A loved the classes - having been in business for myself in a previous life I know my limitations regarding starting again. I feel what I have learnt will enable me to take the plunge - A wonderful experience thank you!"
Alison Flanders
"I thought it was a very helpful business course, and got me started straight away"
Julija Laventa
"On a very intimidating subject, the course made me realise that I knew more than I realised and also learned about lots of business related things; Alison was motivating and inspiring"
Ana Cintra
"Great course - really realistic!"
Melissa Aumar
"I started the course completely naïve and now I'm so much more knowledgeable and only wish I had done this course sooner before diving in! The notes I will keep and look at over time"
Tessa Wethli www.tessawethli.com
"Before the course I was keen but nervous. This course has not only made starting a business feel doable but has brought out confidence and excitement - so that I'm raring to go!"
Sophie Leeds www.shakyturtle.com
"I found the course informative and interesting. It upgraded existing information and helped me to focus my mind on how to progress effectively -Thank you"
Rebecca Wittler www.arkline.com
"This course helped me realise that I am capable of working towards my goals"
Deema Murad
"I was not really interested in arts marketing and just saw it as something that I just had to do. But now I find it fascinating and the course has been helpful. I now wish to study more about this subject"
Monica Navarro
"Very interesting and useful course, rewarding, great handouts, ideas and tips"
Claire Silvestre
"Alison's course was both fun and forward thinking. I had a wonderful week learning confidence and promotional skills. I know I will take them with me to my next venture. Thank you!"
Rachel Kremer
"I found this course life-changing and practical. The lecturer's attitude was 'can do' she kept everyone's attention throughout the course"
Annette Albert
"Alison Branagan has provided an excellent course called 'Creative People into Enterprise' which has been very helpful to me in developing opportunities for self-employment within the creative Industries"
Susan Mary Robertson
"I would recommend this course for anyone who would like to set up a business. Especially for people who have no basic knowledge of business administration. It was a very informative course which gave me a big insight into the business world."
Marion Tomlin
"This course is doubtless the first I have been on, never a dull moment to drift off! All the material was stimulating and very well presented with loads of handouts"
Angela Jameson
"This course is a must for anyone who is willing to make sacrifices to start up a business. Alison Branagan presentation skills are superb and the course contents were great"
Isaac Elesia
"This course has changed my life, Alison was non judgemental, encouraging and filled me with optimism. Yes the journey will be a challenge but I feel fully equipped and prepared to tread this road -Thank you for this a privilege"
Sharon Tomlin
"It is a really great course it gave me what I needed - it's been an eye opener. Personally Alison is not what I expected her to be. She is fun and a huge knowledge base"
Lem Lem (Lily) Mebratu
"This course has really given me more motivation. I always had a vision for my business venture and now I have the knowledge and tools to start-up my business"
Gene Okichi
"Alison saw me after being a professional artist for 7 years. She carefully listened to where I was at and then swiftly bombarded me with priceless information about how I should be working, time spent with her made me re-valuate my efficiency. I left with a huge 'to do' list that I'm still working though 3 months after I saw her!"
Rob Pepper www.robpepper.co.uk - www.dailydrawingdiary.com
"Alison is a good advisor who has given me valuable support and allowed me to both market myself and access the many opportunities which are available to an illustrator and working creatively in a highly competitive industry"
Cecile Grant
"This course has started me thinking about what to do next, and a really interesting bunch of people in a similar position"
Joanna Morley
"At 29 you've got to commit yourself on a direction - this course was the right thing@the right moment"
Franchesca Bartoluca
"As a photographer it has helped me to identify my key skills and how best to interact with potential customers"
James Bell www.bellphoto.co.uk
"Good to organise knowledge to keep updated and make good contacts, not to be missed."
Feliphe Lavon www.brazilian.org.uk
"The course has been interesting and inspiring."
Katie Ellis
"An informative and useful short course with a great opportunity to meet like minded people, this course has given me the confidence to market myself and my designs"
Danielle Zlotogoura - designer
"This course has helped me reflect on where I want to take my career, life and what to prioritise"
Emily Druiff
"I would recommend anyone wanting to start a business to do this course. It was factual and a great insight into a whole new world out there"
Emma Turner - Graphic Designer
"All designers and artists should take this course you will not just stumble upon this in-depth information on your own. A great start for a fuzzy futur"
Will Gurley - Product Designer www.willgurley.com
"Useful and eye-opening I now feel I have a more realistic outlook on starting my own business"
Megan McKay
"This course has given me the kick-start I needed to think seriously about what I really want to achieve from my career. Not just perusing everything that comes my way; practical ways to go about this. I wish I'd had this information years a go. I thought Alison and all the speakers she had chosen were very relevant and the informative. I was surprised about how mush valuable information we received"
Sarah Elwick
"A good course especially if you have questions that you really need answering…which is most of us"
Teddy Keen
"The course has been interesting and inspiring."
Katie Ellis
"Very useful and informative sessions, gives you a good foundation of knowledge to take with you into your new venture."
Andrew Cross www.andrewcrossdesign.co.uk
"Alison explained very clearly with humour and lots of handouts. The handouts have a lot of source information and there were other elements e.g. Slides to convey points in an interesting and memorable way."
A. Marr
"Well worth my time and money, I learned many necessary things that would have taken me years to figure out on my own."
Kevin Ward
"I found all three courses which I attended useful, informative and professionally presented. They have been very helpful as a starting point for investigating the subject of money/tax and self promotion further."
Alex Maroon
"I found the course to be very informative and valuable. Alison's way of presentation was done in an enjoyable and understandable way."
J. Wong www.joannewong.co.uk
"Expertly presented with in-depth knowledge in a wide range of topics. What I have learnt is immeasurable. Highly recommend both course and Alison."
Stephen Wickstead www.pop-portraits.com
"Excellent and informative workshops every time, should I ever attend a more useful and delightful course than this I'll eat my hat (if I happen to be wearing one at the time). Alison is a top lass and if I ever meet her again I'd buy her a pint any day of the week."
Thomas James Robshaw www.tjrobshaw.com
"Brilliant before the course I had almost no confidence in the business area of illustration I have learned so much - I owe you one! Thank you Thank you Thank you."
Samantha Williams www.eyecandy.org
"Practical and relevant material; this course has inspired me to really start on my venture!"
Gemma Warnock
"Alison's course was both fun and forward thinking. I had a wonderful week learning confidence and promotional skills which I know I will take with me to my next venture -Thank you!"
Rachel Kremer www.rachelkremer.com
"The session was very well organised and delivered. There were interesting group discussions and activities plus Q&A. Alison is very down to earth and very professional; thorough in everything she does. I feel like I can now fill the gaps in my professional practise and start to take illustration more seriously/ Good Luck! Many thanks, Jason."
Jason Staurou
"Alison presented us with masses of useful information and has a clear understanding of exactly what we need to know and where the gaps will be in our knowledge. I really appreciated her eagerness to communicate clearly and helpfully."
Portia Rosenberg
"Alison was an excellent teacher. She explained everything clearly and provided hard copies of all relevant materials. She answered individual questions aptly and her friendly manner created a relaxed learning environment."
Jim Jobson
"Phew! I had to face this and Alison has helped me to demystify the tax monster, thanks, very helpful."
Dan Bramell www.thescribbler.co.uk
"Alison's Business Start Up Master Classes are invaluable for anyone starting out on their own. I found the information both useful and presented in a clear and simple way. It's cleared the fog and demystified a lot of Jargon and scary aspects. I also feel better equipped and more confident to know how to start and what to look out for."
Ben Rowe www.benrowe.co.uk
"it was a very useful class, absolutely what I need to know about basic tax knowledge."
Shirley Chiang www.shirleyillustrations.com
"Alison's workshops were a wealth of information and presented in an interesting way. I've had my own business for 5 years and have still learned so much."
Stephen Hall www.magpiedesigns.co.uk
"Fabulous - if I can get this organised my life would be so less stressful. Great info, especially all the publications, web links, etc."
Susan Young
"The courses were very good and very well taught. I would Definitely recommend them."
Harriet Butler
"A succinct and highly practical course full of information you'd normally spend years trying to gather for yourself. It's a real head start."
Thanks, Yasmin Tukmachi
"The course had a practical and well informed approach, which provided me with the essential knowledge for starting out in business"
JL
"Alison Branagan's course has been invaluable source of knowledge and given me the confidence to make my business succeed!"
Paul Chisholm
"Alison's enthusiasm is really encouraging and I actually enjoyed learning about Tax and accounting! The course is very thorough and a good kick-start for anyone who has been thinking of starting up a business, but hasn't actually got around to it. I am pleased to say I have now set up my own photography business"
Deborah Bullen
"Well worth while for any creative person who wants to be their own boss, has an idea, but lacks the nitty-gritty experience of actually running a business. Loads of really practical information and advice"
Tim Hollins
"Alison provides incredibly useful and rich information in digestible doses. After doing the course I felt the mysterious world of the artist in business was a lot simpler and less scary than I imagined. This course was the most useful I've ever done since completing my degree."
Bindy Bonnette
"Entrepreneurship for Creatives' is unmissable! The best course of the year!"
Christopher Reinke - Cyclopz Design
"The course inspired me to take that one step further. The advice was wonderfully practical and we were not just bombarded with lots of theory. I learnt so much about myself, not always comfortable but very useful, through the exercises and workshops. It has allowed me to reassess the way I market my work and given me much more confidence. I also made friends and had so much fun!"
Catherine Fenton
" The Essential Guide to Marketing proved extremely valuable in successfully marketing my creative business. I wish it had been a core module on my degree"
Emma Bacon
"I must add here that after taking four classes at CSM this summer in my opinion this class was electric and fruitful as a group. There certainly has been a special ingredient which united us all and this is why I feel lucky to have experienced that"
KG
"Become visible! - Everything you should know about arts marketing from presenting your work to exhibiting and becoming recognized - all that and more"
Agnieszka Kolek
"It's wonderful that someone is at long last addressing the problem of bringing together entrepreneurial skills together with abilities in the art and design field. Alison's course was highly informative and most useful in helping me with a change of direction in my career"
Janet Caton
"An informative and useful short course with a great opportunity to meet like minded people, this course has given me the confidence to market myself and my designs"
Daniella Zlotogoura
"To participate in the short-course Essential Guide to Marketing with Alison Branagan was an excellent opportunity to grow my knowledge in Marketing, apart from getting more enthusiasm to face actual challenges in my career"
Daigo Leonel da Mata
"Not only did this course prove invaluable in teaching me where to start in setting up a business, but it harnessed my enthusiasm to turn an idea into something real"
AP
If you have attended one of Alison Branagan's workshops or courses and would like to send a testimonial please email her.
