What do the dreaded Dragons look for when hopeful entrepreneurs come into their Den? Innovative Ideas – Charisma – Strong Business Plans. Who fits this profile? Angel Strawbridge AKA Adoree or Angela Newman as she was know at the time.
In 2014 Angel pitched the Dragons for £100,000 in return for a 40% stake in “Vintage Patisserie”. She made a very grand entrance in her glamorous midnight blue gown accompanied by dancers and music evoking the 20s and 30s. Angel’s proposal was to open a vintage inspired tea shop / boutique so that London shoppers could enjoy retro tea parties, and of course the location had to be Soho.
Dragon Deborah Meaden loved the whole concept however Angel’s excitement was short-lived when James Caan queried her on how she planned to kit out a location in Soho for just £27,000 and Deborah wants details of the lease for which Angel has no answers. Many such questions and negative input ensued during what must have seemed like an eternity for Angel:
Theo Paphitis warned “a “shell” involved huge startup costs”. Duncan Bannatyne flustered Angel and he opted out. Peter Jones opted out after stating from personal experience the reality of costs vs returns. James Caan queried Angel’s experience . . . and on it went, poor Angel!
After what must have seemed like a lifetime of hostile grilling, do you know what Angel said? “I’m not perfect – that’s why I’m here”, and after an eternity of deliberation Deborah made an offer of 50% for a 20% stake followed by Theo who matched Deborah’s offer. And that, as they say, was the beginning of an amazing journey which has seen Angel become the chatelaine of the renowned Chateau de la Motte Husson as well as wife and mother. Who said fairy tales don’t come true? Get inspired ladies!
If you want to read the full story go to frenchkissvintage and for Angel’s pitch to the Dragons click here.
Photo courtesy of French Kiss Vintage: a private boutique specialising in hand picked vintage dresses and accessories that bring a bit of Ooh La La into your wardrobe! You can find our store on ASOS Marketplace: http://bit.ly/lmslXS or eBay: http://bit.ly/gdCu6V. Plus here’s our blog about vintage loveliness! Vintage sourcing and styling available. Please feel free to get in touch: frenchkissvintage@gmail.com Hannah Freeman 07739902177
