What inspired you to do this kind of event?
I had recently moved to Menorca with my partner and I would network with people in tourist industry, the conversation often turned to how to go about improving the tourism off season? Around about this time I was invited to Ascot in the UK. I was so excited to attend and it was such a wonderful experience. The atmosphere, beautiful dresses, the men all suited and booted, and then there was the hats & horses! It got my mind working overtime and upon my return to Menorca, I discovered that there were a couple of hippodromes ( stadiums ) that held a very unique type of horse racing called 'trotting'. The Ascot experience could be a unifying link between the UK residents and the tourists over here. And I knew I could create something similar and unique. I needed a name that would clearly communicate what we wanted to achieve, and voila Hats & Horses was born.
Are you happy with the results from your two months of planning for Hats & Horses in Mallorca?
Yes, the ambiance was the same in Mallorca as it was in Menorca. It's very much a relaxed luxury, a quality time surrounded in quality elements but never too obvious.
It was perfect! No pressure, lots of fun…..you realise that it's normal that everyone wants to come back year after year.
When and where are your next events?
The next event in 2020 is the 16th of May in Menorca. Mallorca at the end of September. Potentially Mexico DF city. And in 2021 we are looking to add a new location in Spain.
What advice would you give to someone starting up an adventurous business like yours?
You have to love your job and be completely dedicated. Anywhere you go be open minded to the people around you, they may be the next person to help, promote and share your business. Don’t be afraid to try new and mad ideas, if I had followed the advice of some people around me I would never have started Hats & Horses.
Finally….patience and mindfulness.?
Not everyone is good and kind, be prepared for hypocrisy and cruelty…let them go because the good people who find you will make it worth it.
www.hatsandhorses.com