‘5 to 9’ boosst team update

As we dive deeper into 2023, here is your next instalment of our ‘5 to 9’ team update!

With a name inspired by the things we have been doing outside of working hours, here you will find plenty of social activities, team achievements and personal touches. This ‘5 to 9’ post is shared by Faye.

We’ve had a jam-packed couple of months here at boosst, and we’re eager to share our latest news with you. Our team has successfully executed a lively festival and a stunning wedding! We know you’re curious, so keep reading for all the juicy details.

CatFest:

boosst is proud to have sponsored the lively and sensational event, CatFest, which took place on Saturday, August 19th. The annual music festival was organised by our wonderful neighbour here at Hulcote to raise money for Action Against Cancer. The charity was founded by Professor Stebbing, who played a major role in the treatment of Julian’s late wife Cat. This was the sixth CatFest but sadly the first without Cat – which multiplied the emotion of the day. The day was a beautiful tribute to Cat’s life and filled with laughter, dancing, and lots of drinking. An incredible total of £74,298 was raised this year and boosst was delighted to support the event by sponsoring all food at the festival. This, alongside the other event sponsors, meant that 100% of ticket sale proceeds reach Action Against Cancer. Keith was once more volunteered to be the auctioneer, adding £30,000 to the fundraising total. Julian can certainly be proud of his efforts and Cat would certainly have been extremely proud of him too.

Julian said: “The total raised for Action Against Cancer from Catfest this year was beyond my wildest dreams. We beat our previous best and when added to monies raised through our other projects Hitmakers Against Cancer and Art Against Cancer, it takes our total now too well over £250,000… I just hope somehow somewhere Cat knows what we have achieved in her honour and what an inspiration she will always be to me and everyone lucky enough to have known her. Keep her in your hearts. There would be no Catfest without Cat. Thank you all. You are marvellous. Julian”

New Opportunities!

We have been pleased to host three students for work experience this summer. We always enjoy offering keen individuals the opportunity to be nosy and learn about our small profession. With just 1,000 Certified Financial Planners spread across the UK, and five of them here at boosst, we are keen to encourage more students to pursue a rewarding career in financial planning.

Jeny & Sathuna, both in their last year at Manchester Met University are studying Banking & Finance and had already completed work experience in banking and auditing. They described their past experiences as dull so wanted to learn what is different about financial planning. They met Keith at a CISI event a few years ago and remembered his offer to come and see what we do at boosst. They had an enjoyable week with the team and were blown away by some of the ways in which we help clients plan for their ideal future. We definitely changed their view on pensions!

James later joined us from Bedford Modern School. He is studying Business, Maths and Film Studies, with a view to leaving school to join a degree apprenticeship programme in investment banking. Having just completed his first year of A-Levels, he wanted to come and gain some real work experience over the Summer. James got involved in a few little projects with us and again spent time with the team learning about what we do. He thoroughly enjoyed his time with us and one of his feedback comments was ‘boosst is a great example of how to build a highly motivated workforce that look out for each other’.

The one thing all three had in common …..when asked, ‘Do you think working in an office is for you?’, they answered… ‘If the office is like boosst’s, then YES!’

We’d also like to say a special thank you to clients who allowed them to join their annual planning meetings to see what we do first hand.

Dawn’s Norfolk adventure:

Dawn was away in Norfolk, staying busy with her dogs on their first holiday together. With the stunning beach just a stone’s throw away, they indulged in long, scenic walks. The weather was also on their side, adding to the overall enjoyment of their trip.

Camping, the Seaside and A Puppy!

Staying on the topic of pets, Mel and Fran recently took their new puppy, Jax, on a camping trip. Camping is a beloved activity in their household, so it’s great to hear that Jax is already getting an early start on becoming a seasoned camper.

Whilst spending a wonderful week in Dartmouth, our travellers explored the surrounding areas of Brixham and Torquay. While wandering through the local spots, they indulged in fresh fish and local ales – a perfect reward after long walks on the beach. The icing on the cake was a steam train from Dartmouth to Paignton, which reminded Mel of Harry Potter. Although Mel is not a wizard, he still thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Sun Soaking and a bit of Adventure

Nick had a jam packed last couple of months, soaking in the sun and exploring new cities. Nick was lucky enough to enjoy a relaxing holiday with Martina and her family in Rhodes. He was busy catching a tan and having a well deserved dip in the pool.

And with a view like that we’re surprised he didn’t stay longer or ask to ‘work from home’!…

After a serene and unwinding holiday, Nick and Martina embarked on another adventure, but this time with their walking boots on. They explored the stunning city of Dubrovnik, appreciating its beauty as they strolled through the narrow side streets. They then ventured into the Old Town, where they indulged in the local cuisine until their hearts were content. Although different from Rhodes, their time in Dubrovnik was nothing short of amazing.

While everyone else was enjoying a relaxing holiday, Laura was out on her friends hen-do in the City of Bath. They hopped from bar to bar and even tried their hand at axe throwing. While some may question the safety of this combination, Laura had a blast!

Everyone in the office now knows never to cross Laura!

Josh and Gabby’s wedding:

Josh & Gabby tied the knot on July 15th, surrounded by family, friends, and the boosst team – here at St Nicholas in Hulcote. The Church is a beautiful old quaint building which we can all see from the office, as it sits between the office and Josh’s family home where Keith & Linda still live.

It was a special day… and despite the windy weather trying to cause a little bit of havoc, everyone dodged the rain and the day ran perfectly to plan. The day was full of special little touches, from custom wine labels in memory of late family members, to the handwritten notecards they wrote for every guest. Funny that… who would have thought two financial planners would have been incredibly organised and well planned for their big day!

Some guests said the music was the highlight (including The Hamptons and beatboxers ‘DUKE’ – yes – really!), others said it was the family feel of the whole day. Our highlight as a team was coming together to see two of our own begin their next adventure together.

I’ve added some photos below… but if you want more, you can access an album of 300 or so by clicking HERE & they wrote a fantastic diary with photos from their trip to Tanzania and Zanzibar, which you can read HERE.