Have I hooked you in with this series yet? Well, you might like to read about Danielle. She keeps it pretty short and sweet. I actually met her donkeys years ago and have re-connected with her more recently as she is a netball mum, has four kids like me (we seem to attract each other) and she has recently launched a new business in Canberra. We caught up at The Jerra Cafe and were looked after Annie who is such a character!
Who are you?
Danielle Cleary, Owner/Director of Danielle Cleary Events (DCE) and mum to 4 children.
How long have you lived in Canberra?
I was raised on horse properties surrounding the ACT and currently reside is the beautiful Jerrabomberra.
What got you into events?
Volunteering at my girls local netball club with sponsorship/events coordination started me off. Then I volunteered at Thoroughbred Park in 2014 with their Face of Canberra Racing and Black Opal Stakes day Fashions on the Field. I raised a prize pool of $50,000 – their highest ever! I thoroughly enjoyed my experiences and decided to sell my commercial roofing business and start my own event management agency.
Have you found it easy starting a small business in Canberra?
Yes, as I previously owned a successful commercial building industry company.
What is the best thing about Event Management in the ACT?
The array of specialist, local small business that I love to showcase in unique events with the support of Canberra’s big business. Meeting and establishing working relationships and friendships.
What do you have coming up?
Recently the DCE team managed the Australian Federal Police (AFP) Legacy Charity Ball for over 300 guests. The following day, saw our signature racing event a “Melbourne Cup Experience, French Connection” showcase the ultimate in race day fashion and knowledge for 200 guests at Hotel Realm. Coming up, I am delighted to be assisting Patissez with their new Civic store opening & the Bungendore Christmas Fair, as well as a private Black Opal Stakes race day fundraising marquee.
You are a mother to four young children, how do you manage to fit everything in?
Great hubby and extended family, as well as good organisational skills.
Any tips for us non-event planner types who are hosting Christmas? What should we be doing now to make Christmas day run smoothly?
Choose a style to make buying Christmas decorations & catering easy. Start thinking and writing lists now of the people you need to buy for and shop on paper so that when you hit the shops, you have a plan. If you know what you need to buy, you can also take advantage of the sales. If you need creative ideas, set yourself up a Christmas board on Pinterst.
Name your favourite restaurant. Why are they so great?
De Brows in Narrabundah, I love the menu and go there just for dessert – hot chocolate coated profiteroles.
Who looks after all your beauty needs?
Beauty by Nikki.
What makes you smile?
Spending time at our coast house with family and friends.
If I could grant you with a superpower, what would it be?
Making my 6-year-old twin boys behave !
If you could change something about Canberra for the better, what would it be?
More Spring and Autumn weather to display the true beauty of the Canberra environment.
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I like Danielle’s idea of stretching out Spring and Autumn! And and I totally agree with her on the fact that Canberra is a great place to be in business. I hope she can make a real go of her new venture and I wish her all the best.
I caught up with Tania McCartney last week. You can read about it here.
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