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What is HD8 Life?

HD8 Life is all about championing the brilliant businesses, creatives, events, groups, independent makers and producers that make this little corner of Yorkshire so special.

Our mission is simple: to support local businesses, and the local community, through creative and collaborative marketing that actually makes a difference. And - crucially! - that doesn't cost a fortune.

What started as a passion project on social media - spotlighting local businesses with fun, free reels and collaborations - is growing into something much bigger... Come with us on this journey of creativity, collaboration, exploration and support.

#HD8Life #HD8Love #lovewhereyoulive

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Look what's sprung up in Shelley! @flowers_from_no.5 is a beautiful new nano-scale, novice flower grower right here in HD8 ⚘️

Alexandra, the face behind Flowers from No.5, is excited to be able to start offering her honesty box where passers by can pick up a handtied posy of freshly grown, local flowers to brighten their day 🖤

It's a "pay what you can" concept which will, in turn, help Alexandra tend her garden even more to stimulate and encourage wildlife and pollinators!

Follow Alexandra on Instagram, and drop her a DM to see when the honesty box is operating and to get exact location info.
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #pollinators #shelley #gardening #tulips

HD8 has spent another day basking in spring sunshine, and we're so thankful for @paulamika63 getting out there, exploring the beautiful place we call home.

Here are just a few snapshots of the scenes she has captured lately. Thanks, as ever Paula, for allowing @hd8.life to share them 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportyourcommunity #photography

We loved starting our day yesterday with this message from Andy and Pat, the owners of @jtsbarthaikitchen, just twelve hours after we posted our collaboration.

This is what HD8 Life is all about - connecting our community and spreading those good vibes!

While we won’t pretend that working with HD8 Life - or using social media in general - is the ultimate solution to every local business challenge, we believe it can help.

Now, nearly 48 hours since we shared our collaboration with JT's, the reel has been viewed over 8,500 times across Facebook and Instagram combined!

No, we might not be reaching Kylie Jenner levels of influence (yet!), but we’re proud to be making an impact.

It’s moments like these that make us smile on a sunny weekend 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #denbydale #supportsmallbusiness

Earlier this week, HD8 Life took a little trip to Kirkburton.

We popped into Kirkburton Pre-School for a little collaboration, did a bit of browsing at @dareboutiquestore, and stocked up on tasty bits from @thebutcherslarder.

While wandering through the village, the daffodils outside All Hallows Church were too beautiful to ignore, so I followed them through the gates and into the peaceful grounds.

I’m not religious, but I’ve always found something incredibly calming about churchyards and graveyards. I’ve said before that the geography of a place holds its stories and roots, and this felt like one of those moments. I could spend hours reading headstones, imagining the lives behind the names... in a way, it’s not too different from what I do with HD8 Life - uncovering stories, exploring local lives, and sharing them with the community.

Fun fact: my eldest’s first name was inspired by a headstone I saw years ago in Highgate Cemetery, London!

I hope you've all enjoyed a gloriously sunny Saturday - whether in HD8 or beyond.

All Hallow's Church will be open tomorrow at 10.30am for its Sunday service of reflection.
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportyourcommunity #Kirkburton

Something’s changed on Wakefield Road… Have you spotted it yet?

When @hd8.life popped by to say hello at the newly rebranded @jtsbarthaikitchen, we were welcomed with open arms - and the delicious scent of freshly cooked Thai food!

Previously known as Just Thai, you might’ve noticed the new signage if you regularly travel between Denby Dale and Scissett. While the name may be different, Andy and Pat are still doing what they do best - serving up tasty, homemade, authentic Thai food and refreshing drinks.

But here’s the thing: they’re not just a restaurant.

Only want a drink? Pop in!

Feeling snacky, not hungry? Tapas-style Thai nibbles are on the menu.

Going all out for a three-course feast? They've got you covered, too.

There’s something for everyone at JT’s, and come May, their sunny rear garden terrace will be open again, complete with a dog-friendly welcome. Perfect for the (hopefully!) warmer days ahead!

Andy and Pat told us they love being part of the HD8 community, surrounded by countryside, yet so close to town, and most of all, they love the friendly faces.

They also wanted to give a shoutout to some of their fellow fab HD8 businesses: @gordonandfrankscoffee and @baobros23.

A huge thanks to Andy and Pat for taking the time to share their story and show us around. We’ll definitely be back for that terrace - with Thai tapas - this summer 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #kitchenroyd #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #denbydale #supportsmallbusiness #thaifood #barandkitchen

A huge shoutout to Mike at The Patterson Way - an absolute superstar when it comes to painting and decorating!

This is the second time Mike has worked his magic on the HD8 Life house, and we were lucky to grab a slot in his busy diary. It’s no surprise he’s in high demand as his work is top-notch, and he’s a genuinely great guy (just don’t get him started on Leeds Utd!).

Mike always goes the extra mile to ensure everything is done to perfection. He keeps things tidy, cleans up after himself every day, and even brings the bin in on bin day - lugging it up the steps because, well… house on a hill life! 🤣

If you need a painter/decorator, we highly recommend Mike. Just make sure you book him in advance as his diary fills up fast! 🖤 You can find The Patterson Way over on Facebook 👍
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #lepton #supportsmallbusiness #painteranddecorator

When @hd8.life spent a sunny morning with Kirkburton Pre-School...

Tucked away on Hallas Road, just a short stroll from North Road, you’ll find the wonderful Kirkburton Pre-School - a place full of warmth, learning, and community spirit.

We had the pleasure of meeting Helen, the dedicated manager, who shared the preschool’s long-standing history and deep connection with the local community. The children regularly explore the village on their wellness walks, visiting local shops and amenities as part of their learning journey.

As a charity-run preschool, Kirkburton relies on fees, funding, fundraising, and kind donations to keep going.

Sessions run on weekdays (term time only) from 9am-3pm, with half-day sessions available too.

The national 15/30 funded hours are available with no additional costs - but packed lunches are essential!

On our visit, the sun was shining, and the little ones were busy playing and exploring. We loved seeing the fantastic facilities and engaging activities that make this such a special place for early education.

Helen wanted to send heartfelt thanks to these amazing local businesses that have shown unwavering support for the pre-school:

@richardcharleshairspa
@dareboutiquestore
The Bakery
@coffeemillandcakes
@normans_restaurant
Kirkburton Library
The Co-op Kirkburton
@philpottfinancial
AV Motors
@damianivescoaching
@peak.fitness1
@boostyoga

Spaces are available at the pre-school... If you're interested, get in touch:

📞 01484 606976
📧 preschoolkirkburton@gmail.com
📲 Follow them on Facebook for updates!

A huge thank you to Helen for the warm welcome and to the incredible children who were an absolute credit to their parents and carers. We loved spending time with you all! 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #kirkburton #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #community #supportsmallbusiness #supportlocalcharities

A little Facebook memory from 2022 popped up the other day, and it reminded us just how brilliant @projectsportuk are!

The smallest HD8 Lifer spent years honing his football skills on Saturday mornings with Shelley Stars - he’d have happily carried on if he hadn’t aged out!

But it wasn’t just football. Over the years, the HD8 Life crew have joined countless holiday camps and taken part in school PE and after-school sessions led by Project Sport.

No matter the session - football, holiday camps, or school sports - the kids always felt welcome, supported, and, most importantly, had loads of fun.

If you're looking to kick-start (or continue) your little one’s sporting journey, we can’t recommend Project Sport enough! 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #grassroots

Here we are again, with our (almost) weekly reminder that supporting local doesn't necessarily mean spending lots of money...

… it can be as simple as engaging with local businesses on social media, or by good old-fashioned word of mouth 🖤

A like, a comment, a share, a recommendation - it all helps to boost their reach and keep them visible in our community.

This is the list of businesses HD8 Life has been a top supporter of this week on social media alone!

If you want to support your favourite local spots without spending a penny, get involved! Show them some love, and let’s keep our amazing HD8 community thriving.

If you fancy it, you could even tag a business you love in the comments and give them a little boost today!
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #community

Did you know that Shelley is home to a fantastic amateur dramatic society? The Pierrot Players have been bringing live theatre to our community since 1981, staging two productions a year (with only a few exceptions!).

Their latest show, Give Us a Sign, runs from 16-19 April 2025 at Shelley Village Hall, and tickets are just £10 per person. You can grab yours now at www.thepierrotplayers.com/box-office!

Support local theatre and enjoy a great night out! 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #shelley #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #localtheatre #supportyourcommunity

We know today can be a tough one for many, but we still want to take a moment to say Happy Mother’s Day 🖤

A special shoutout to my incredible mum - the woman who shaped me, taught me my values, and has been my biggest cheerleader every step of the way. Fun fact: she once ran a marathon in 3 hours and 7 minutes! Safe to say, that level of athleticism definitely skipped a generation 😂

I love you, Mum. Thank you for everything.

However today looks for you - whether you're celebrating, remembering, or just getting on with your Sunday - we're sending you good HD8 vibes. If you’ve got something nice planned, enjoy it! Happy Sunday, folks.
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #mothersday

It’s a wild and windy evening in Shelley, but that didn’t stop us from dusting off the big coat (turns out we were a bit too optimistic about spring arriving! 😂) and heading over to Shelley Village Hall for the Shelley Art Group Annual Exhibition.

And wow - what a fantastic showcase of talent! The hall was buzzing with people admiring and purchasing some truly stunning pieces of art. It was lovely to see so many folks chatting, browsing, and supporting local artists.

The exhibition runs tomorrow (Sunday 30 March 2025) from 10am-4pm, so if you’re looking for something special to do, why not pop by? A perfect addition to your (Mothering) Sunday plans! 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #Shelley #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #supportlocalartists

Another delicious vegan meal from @hallroydveganfoodco tonight! 🖤

Vegan or not (I’m not!), this is seriously tasty food - freshly made, delivered to your door, and ready to reheat whenever it suits you. Prefer to pick up? You can collect from Shepley too!

No hassle, no fuss! Just a filling, healthy, and seriously good meal without the effort.
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #vegan #Shepley

Sunshine and longer days are on the way, and there’s plenty happening in HD8 and beyond this weekend!

If you’re out and about, make sure to stop by Shelley Village Hall for the Shelley Art Group annual exhibition - open Saturday evening and all day Sunday.

We can’t wait to have a browse and support our local artists!

See you there? 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportlocalartists #shelley

A sunny morning well spent at @bagdenhallhotel...

Bagden Hall, situated between Denby Dale and Scissett, is a bit of a hidden gem for many HD8-ers - probably because most of us don’t think to stay in hotels so close to home! But wow, what a place. A grand, beautiful building set in absolutely stunning grounds.

I’d been before, but I’d never explored the gardens - and let me tell you, I’ve been seriously missing out!

Bagden Hall isn’t just for weddings or overnight stays, it’s a hub of activity! And I’m beyond excited to say that HD8 Life has been given the green light to cover their Summer Fayre on 13 July 2025. Save the date, because this one’s going to be special!

But that’s not all. There’s so much happening here, from murder mystery nights and 80s parties to Easter farm experiences and princess-themed afternoon teas. Check out their website or socials for all the details.

As for me, I’ll be back in July, camera in hand, ready to capture 40 incredible local stallholders and our community enjoying a brilliant day out. Can’t wait! 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #scissett

ONE FACEBOOK FOLLOWER AWAY FROM 900!

If you're over on Facebook, please try and help us get safely over the 900 follower hurdle by sharing the HD8 Life Facebook page with your friends 🖤

HD8 Life is all about raising our community up, championing our local businesses and groups, and trying our best to keep HD8 alive and thriving.

Thanks so much for all your support. It means the world.
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #900followers

This beautiful photo popped up on my personal Facebook page memories from 25 March 2018 - a time BC (Before COVID), and shortly after emerging from the icy grip of that year's Beast from the East!

Let's all repeat together again - like some sort of HD8 mantra - "Aren't we lucky to live where we do?!" 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #emley

After my busy morning welcoming Mike from The Patterson Way back into the HD8 Life house to paint our kitchen and utility, then heading onto @pic.alily_floristry for a @thirty.sixdegrees meeting - having only eaten a banana - I needed some sustenance.

On my way home from my meeting in Denby Dale, I swung by @taylormadebakeryskelmanthorpe and picked up a delish tuna mayo salad sandwich, which was packed to its teacake rafters! That stopped the embarrassing tummy rumbles 🤣

I love a good HD8 morning 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lepton #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #denbydale #skelmanthorpe #florist #sandwichshop #decorator

When @hd8.life called in the @csscleaning_ cavalry...

I’ll be the first to admit it - I’m not obsessed with cleaning. I’m not a total slob either (promise!), but I really don’t enjoy it.

So, after some unfortunate oven overspills and a particularly rough time for the hallway carpet (thanks to the joys of parenthood - sorry, TMI), I had to wave the white flag and call in the professionals.

Enter Sophie from Commercial Sanitising Specialists, based in Shepley!

Sophie is an absolute gem: friendly, understanding, and most importantly, she loves making things sparkle ✨

Sophie tackled my oven and carpet like the pro she is, working quickly and efficiently, explaining everything as she went, and all at super reasonable prices.

If you need a helping hand with domestic or commercial cleaning - whether it’s carpets, upholstery, or even a deep clean - please keep Sophie in mind. She also offers one-off intensive cleans and even gift vouchers (perfect for that friend who hates cleaning as much as I do).

Massive thanks to Sophie for taking on the jobs I just couldn’t face, and for being so lovely whilst doing them 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #shepley

Oh no, what happened to the weather?!

At least the newest additions to the HD8 Life garden are getting a good soak! 🌿

If you're looking to brighten up your space - inside or out - @yorkshire_garden_centres Pennine Garden Centre in Shelley has a fantastic selection of plants and flowers right now. Well worth a visit 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportlocalbusiness #shelley #gardencentre

We might have woken up to a bit of mist and murk in HD8, so let's brighten our morning with this beautiful photo from @farnleytyascommunitygroup 🖤

Farnley Tyas is our near HD4 neighbour, with absolutely stunning, rolling views over to HD8, and some wonderful businesses to check out too.
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #HD4 #farnleytyas

When @hd8.life joined @thewateringcanflorist on a trip to @marilliamflowersltd...

Yes, we ventured beyond HD8 this morning (I know - shock!) as we accompanied Emley-based florist, Liz, on a visit to the Huddersfield Flower Market.

This visit was part of Liz’s six-week Introduction to Floristry course, giving her students a behind-the-scenes look at a trade-only flower market. We picked up some great tips, saw flowers we’d never even heard of before, and got a real insight into a side of floristry most people never see!

Huge thanks to Liz for the invite - I loved meeting everyone and discovering something new. Wishing all the ladies the best for the final weeks of their course!

P.S. If you want a gorgeous Mother’s Day arrangement from The Watering Can, don’t hang about! Time is ticking away. Mother's Day is NEXT Sunday 🖤

#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #YorkshireFlorist #Emley

It's a beautiful sunny day in HD8! Perfect weather for wandering down North Road in Kirkburton...

I stopped in for a quick chat with @joelthelocalagent at @earnshawestates, before grabbing a drink from @the.urban.kitchen.cafe and having a little catch up with Tracey and Andy (who have very kindly offered to display some of my HD8 Life workshop flyers 🥰).

Lovely to see people out and about, shopping local, buying local and supporting local 🖤

(And I even managed to catch a sun halo on camera 🌞).
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #kirkburton

When HD8 Life met YourYoga...

Yesterday, we spent a lovely sunny morning with Debbie and her YourYoga class at Skelmanthorpe Community Centre.

Debbie is incredibly passionate about Iyengar yoga and its benefits. With over 30 years of practice, and 8 years of teaching locally, she brings a wealth of experience to her classes.

Sitting in on Debbie's class was an absolute pleasure. It was welcoming, fun, and inclusive - perfect for both beginners and more experienced yogis. She thoughtfully offers modifications for anyone with injuries or health conditions, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably. By the end of the session, every single person left with a smile and a spring in their step, ready to take on the rest of the day.

Debbie describes HD8 as the "perfect" place to live and work. She loves its beautiful countryside, easy access to the M1 for those venturing further afield, and the unique personalities of its villages. She also appreciates the wide range of local amenities, making it easy to find everything you need close to home.

A special shout-out from Debbie to these fantastic local businesses:

@the_beauty_haven_rk
@scissett_home_and_diy
@noir_hairsalon2018

YourYoga classes run on Tuesdays at Skelmanthorpe Community Centre (10am-11am & 11.30am-12.30pm), and at Upper Denby Church Hall on Wednesdays (6.45pm-7.45pm).

All abilities are welcome! To book or learn more, please contact Debbie at 07925 054765 or youryogascissett@gmail.com.

A huge thank you to Debbie and her wonderful group for the warm welcome and for letting me experience YourYoga in action! 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #yogaclass #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #upperdenby #supportsmallbusiness #skelmanthorpe

Easter is just a mere month away... If you're looking for holiday camps for the kids, these are the local-ish ones HD8 Life has spotted so far.

Feel free to comment with any others you know of! 🖤

Elm Street Kidz Club Ltd
@projectsportuk
@theartroom1a
@damianivescoaching
@thezonehud
@edensforestcic
@step_up.sport at @emley_afc
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #easter #easterholidays #kidsclub

The early morning mist and frost has made way for sunshine and - dare I say it?! - even a little bit of warmth!

I took this quick snap of The Mast as I was leaving a meeting this morning... Can you guess where I was? 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #emley #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #themast

Honestly, when I started @hd8.life back in August, I had no master plan. I didn't even really know what my immediate plan was other than to share, share, share.

The only thing I really knew is that there is so much to love about HD8; so many amazing stories and businesses and people here, that our area deserved someone championing it with collaboration and community at the heart of that.

Right now, things are evolving for HD8 Life, and I'm trying to formulate plans that keep FREE promotion and collaboration at the heart of HD8 Life but which also mean I can cope with this little side project's unexpected growth and interest.

In the meantime, whilst my cogs turn (can you hear the creaking?!), this comment on my Facebook post yesterday made me smile. It's a little bit of validation that HD8 Life has reached at least one person with the purpose and intention it was created to achieve.

As we enter rockier times in April when costs and overheads will rise for many small businesses, let's keep doing what we can to support local within our own means and abilities. One of the big boys once said that every little helps, and it truly does for our community 🖤
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness #collaboration #community #bloomwhereyouare

With Mother's Day knocking on the door, we wanted to give a little shout out to the amazing independent florists, flower growers, and plant aficionados working from HD8 🖤

If you’re looking for stunning bouquets, seasonal blooms, wedding florals, sympathy work, or even the perfect houseplant, here’s a little list for you!

HD8 Life hasn't personally bought from all these amazing folks (yet!), but we've heard great things about them:

🌸 @pic.alily_floristry
🌿 @springwoodflowers
💐 @thewateringcanflorist
🌸 @floral_moments_
🌿 Jessica's Rose Box at @maitlandflowersuk
💐 @butt.erflynet
🌸 Quality Plants and Flowers
🌿 @the_nurtured_stem
💐 @oak_house_orchids
🌸 @highlands_farm_cut_flowers
🌿 @beech_mastflowerfarm

As always, we’re sure there are more amazing independent florists and flower/plant businesses in HD8 that we’ve missed. If you know someone who deserves a shoutout, drop their name in the comments so we (and everyone else!) can check them out!

Happy independent flower-buying, folks! 💐
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #florists #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #flowers #plants #supportsmallbusiness #bloomwhereyouare

@hd8.life is all about supporting local businesses, but today, we’re asking for a little support in return 😬

Would any local businesses, cafes, community spaces, or groups be happy to pop up a flyer or have a few available for people to take? Even just sticking one up as a poster would be a huge help!

The flyers are for The Social & Strategy Sessions - a series of marketing workshops run by HD8 Life in collaboration with @thirty.sixdegrees (aka me in my business hat!). These sessions are designed to help small, independent businesses, sole traders, and entrepreneurs who don’t currently have the budget for professional marketing support but want to level up their skills.

A massive thank you to @rationsstorekitchen for already getting involved and popping flyers on their menu boards 🖤

If you can help spread the word, please drop a comment or send me a DM - I’d be so grateful!

WORKSHOP UPDATE:
There are only a few spots left for the 19 May session, but plenty still available for 23 June. Tickets and info available from the link in our bio.

Let’s get the word out and help more local businesses grow!
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#HD8 #HD8Life #HD8Love #yorkshire #supportlocal #lovewhereyoulive #supportsmallbusiness

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