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BA5 RECAP | HYGGE AT CLIFTON BAY
The sun setting in the west gave the calm waters off Cape Kidnappers a beautiful warm glow and the fires inside Hygge at Clifton Bay were roaring as owners Robyn and Kerry Brannigan and Marketing Manager William Atkin welcomed guests on Thursday 16th September. Their welcoming smiles, soft chairs around the warm fire, and touches of local art and craft decorating the café showcased the meaning of Hygge they strive to bring to their business. Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is about the essence of what is good in this life: warmth, happiness, enjoyment comfort and peace. All of these and more were experienced in the evening.
After filling our puku with some of Hygge’s homemade arancini balls, halloumi skewers, and a glass of bubbles the group was told the impressive history of Hygge at Clifton Café by Robyn and Kerry. With no hospitality experience, Robyn and Kerry dreamed of a place that felt like home, with home baking and children running on the grass. A location that showcased local charm and was a destination and experience for their guests. They found the former Clifton Café and set to work with a tight goal of opening in 31 days in time for Mother’s Day of 2018. Working practically non-stop and with help from the locals, they achieved their goal and hit the ground running. We also heard of some of their challenges such as getting fast reliable Wi-Fi throughout and the trial and error in finding the correct sales system.
William then helped us look to the future and Hygge’s focus on growing their functions and events side of the business. The Cape End of the building can be closed off fully and seats up to 45 people for a private function. William talked us through the catering options available from finger food to buffet style to plated meals and expressed Hygge’s desire to ensure they can customise the menu and food options for each event. No matter what type of catering you need, talk to William because he is intent on making it available. The full venue can seat up to 130 people or can accommodate up to 300 people if standing. And transportation isn’t a barrier as Hygge has a relationship with local transportation provider, Double Decker Transport. Depending on the transportation package they can even offer door-to-door services for your event.
After hearing about all the fantastic food options at Hygge the group was excited for the Business Card Prize Draw. Hygge generously provided a $100 gift voucher and Vicki Fox from AddClarity was the lucky winner. Congratulations, Vicki!
This Business After 5 event was a warm and cosy evening in a beautiful location.
Don’t miss the next one with Prophecy Networks in Napier on 12th October.
Each BA5 event gives you the opportunity to network with other guests and learn about a local business in a warm and comfortable environment.
