TGtB Meets... Searcys

Following the glitzy BEHTA Awards on the 9th of June, we caught up with Celebratory Event of the Year Award Winner Searcys' Kayleigh Robbins.

Congratulations on your win! Tell us a little bit about your business?

Searcys is one of the most prestigious catering companies in the UK operating in some of the country’s most impressive and iconic venues including the Gherkin and Blenheim Palace.

Locally, Searcys provide catering at Bath’s biggest attraction – the Roman Baths as well as the historic Pump Room, the Assembly Rooms and more recently the Roman Baths Kitchen.

We pride ourselves on serving first-class British cuisine with a modern twist. We place a huge emphasis on producing quality dishes focusing on local food and flavour. We have a close working relationship with local suppliers and ensure that our dishes remain fresh and seasonal all year round.

What does winning this award mean for you and your company?

There is a lot of planning and organisation involved in running an event and it’s often the organisation and the great ‘behind the scenes’ work that really helps to shape a good event and ensure its success.  

We have a great team ethic here in Bath and everyone works hard to ensure Searcys high standards are maintained throughout, from the initial event planning by the events team through to the execution of the event by the banqueting team.

It is great to be recognised for a key event and for doing it well.

Why do you think you won?

I think we won because we have tried to offer something a little bit different here in Bath; offering a Burns’ Night celebration in a unique venue complete with traditional piper, toastmaster, live music and a sumptuous dinner.

I think the judges could see the level of planning and detail that had gone in to the event and we’re impressed with the feedback we had received from our guests.

The fact that we were also able to raise over £700 for a worthwhile local charity also shows our support for the local community.

How are you planning to celebrate your victory?

There was a lot of celebrating on the awards night itself! We’re still agreeing who gets to display the award in their office!

Business is clearly booming, why do you think so many people visit Bath?

Bath is a beautiful city come rain or shine. Obviously there’s the architecture and the great attractions but I think Bath has a strong appeal. It is the kind of place you want to be and want to live in because it has a certain charm about it. 

What's your favourite thing about Bath and why?

I like the fact that Bath is a small city – nowhere is too far to walk. My favourite place to chill out is Parade Gardens – great for a desk escape for half an hour. Here you can sit back and enjoy your sandwich whilst catching some sunshine.

Tell us a little bit about the role that you play within the business?

I look after the marketing for The Roman Baths Kitchen and The Pump Room Restaurant. It is a fun and varied role and no day is ever the same. There’s lots of interaction with clients, customers and local people.

Generally you will find me updating the website, organising all of our marketing collateral, arranging events, handling reservations, booking in groups, managing our social media pages, snapping new dishes – the list goes on.

What advice would you give to someone looking to succeed in your industry?

Don’t be afraid to try new things – if it doesn’t work out then don’t do it again, if it does then do it again but better!