Category: Freelance

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Coworking Creative Creative space Creative studio Events Freelance Office Space Studio Studio hire Studio Rental

The Best Secret Coworking Spaces to hire in London

HotPatch’s Hidden HotSpots

Working remotely or remotely working, am I right? Wait, no. That’s the same thing.

HotPatch has collated a list of some of the more unusual and unique coworking spaces that you can nest in and work at for the day, or by the hour. If you’re a London local, or perhaps you’re visiting and have to decided to chase down a Patch packed with personality, then these co-works will work for you.

For more Patches; from co-works, to gyms and salons, visit HotPatch.com. Likewise, if you own space — get in touch!

Community Centric Coworking Space in Hammersmith

A grand space with a beautiful, ergonomic design filled with natural light, sits invitingly in Hammersmith, ready to host your work plans, and help you find your community.

Designed also as a retreat, to relax and reflect, you can find multiple wellness events throughout the week to help keep your mind active and engaged.

Alongside wellness events, the space features networking events, breakfast meetings, afterwork socials and plenty of opportunities to connect and interact with the people around you.

Broaden your social horizons, work smart and strike the right balance in this lavish community space.

Rural-style Coworking Space
Book on HotPatch.com
Rural-style coworking space
Book on HotPatch.com

Multifunction Coworking Space in North London

This multi-use space in North London, holds music at the heart of its community. With music studios, a content creation suite, event space and meeting rooms, all adjacent to the large coworking area, you’ll find this is the one-stop shop for all types of creativity.

With the slick cylindrical centre-piece, and comfortable, modern studios, this Patch is a one of a kind in the collection.

Coworking space with music studio
Book on HotPatch.com
Music studio
Book on HotPatch.com

Their online community also features webinar discussions, workshops and other types of collaborative opportunities. Their goal is to allow creatives to thrive in the industry.

So join the community, and be a part of the culture today. For coworks in Hagerston, this is top of the list.

Free space
Book on HotPatch.com

Collaborative Workspace with Natural Light in North London

Looking for a unique co-work in North London? This 320 sqft space is located upstairs inside a Georgian Townhouse. A lot of co-works have a real office feel, but this one very much feels like home.

With natural light, a seated lounge, and other breakout rooms, the large space makes for the perfect environment to spend the day, run meetings and host presentations. Other purposes can include, running team-building activities or focus groups and events.

Comfy coworking space
Book on HotPatch.com
Comfy coworking space
Book on HotPatch.com

Not sure if the Georgians were big on co-works, but we love this cowork in Islington.

Are you that person “looking for coworking spaces near me?” Or for coworks to rent in London?

Use HotPatch to browse a full selection of rentable coworks studios today. Or, if you’re looking to make money from your own coworkers, you can list with us by signing up on our website.

For any further questions, please do reach out to us in the comments below, online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

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Coworking Creative Creative space Creative studio Events Finance Freelance Music studio Music studio hire Office Space Photography production studio Rehearsal studio hire Studio Studio hire Studio Rental

Top 5 Event Spaces to Hire in London

Got a do? A shindig? A bash? A bonanza?

Putting on an event can be tricky, but we’re taking one of the most complicated aspects – finding the right space – and making it easy.

Perhaps you’re hosting a big karaoke night for your colleagues, or you require a classy music venue for some friends.

Whether you’re looking for something specific, or need a little inspiration, we’ve got an eclectic collection that will help.

Visit HotPatch for the full selection of London event spaces, or check out our hand-picked Patches below.

Warehouse to Hire | Event Space in East London

Big Space is an industrial​ warehouse available for creative hire at an affordable price. It serves as a multi-purpose hireable space suitable for large-scale commercial or music and cultural events as well as film and photographic shoots.

With both indoor and outdoor space​,​ 24-hour access​,​ 42​,​225 sq ft of inside space​,​ 49​,​881 sq ft of car park space​,​ 22​,​202 sq ft of outdoor garden space​,​ 23m high ceilings​,​ and a staggering indoor capacity of 10​,​000​,​ there is nowhere else quite like it.

Heck, don’t have a big event? Hire this one to read a book in for an hour. You do you.

Warehouse event space
Book Here

Mezzanine Event Space Available in Hammersmith

The iconic ‘Mission Hall’ building has been a hub for the local community for over 120 years.

After years of closure​,​ the building has now been restored to its former glory​​ as a hub of creative combustion within the Brackenbury community. They are now on the look out for creatives, entrepreneurs, yogis and book-worms to collaborate within the space for any planned London events.

Mezzanine event space
Book Here

Cocktail Bar to Hire | Hire Event Space in Central London

A world class cocktail bar and late night party space available to hire.

A stunning bar​/​club area decked out in a luxe pop aesthetic themed around fun musical references — there’s even a disco toilet to boot!

Some of the best cocktails in London are put together behind the bar by a crackteam of mixologists​, ​and there’s a mouth watering menu of artisan pizza and tasty sharing plates to keep the stomach lined while you work your way through the drinks​/​songs menu.

In keeping with its location right in the heart of Chancery Lane​,​ this karaoke bar to hire specialises in corporate, as well as private, entertaining​. It​ offers a unique space for meetings and conferences, as well as full private hire for product launches​,​ press events or the yearly company blowout.

You can even book a special corporate team builder themed around cocktails​,​ karaoke and party games that makes for one of the most unique team bonding experiences in London.

Cocktail Bar
Book Here

Gallery Space To Hire in East London

A unique open space overlooking Regent’s Canal for larger groups of up to 60 people.

Ideal for wellness events​,​ dining or drinks receptions​,​ board meetings​,​ team building sessions​,​workshops​,​ exhibitions or a product launch.

It is available for dry hire or food catered by Cafe Route​,​ serving a selection of mediterranean food to suit all tastes.

This space has numerous additional benefits including:

  • Dedicated events manager
  • Wi-Fi​,​ projector​,​ and speakers
  • Multiple seating options avaliable
  • Floor to ceiling windows with natural daylight overlooking Kingsland Basin
  • Fully licensed bar and catering services
  • Air conditioning
  • Zoom capabilities
  • 5 minutewalk from Haggerston Overground and easy links from the City and East London
Gallery event space
Book Here

Elegant Music Room to Hire in Central London

Overlooking Bloomsbury Square​,​ this Music Room has already been host to many music recitals​,​ book launches​,​ lectures and performances.

It is the main exhibition space at PushkinHouse with some of their previous shows being featured in TimeOut​,​ The Guardian​,​ Evening Standard​,​ Creative Review and GQ.

The room boasts high windows that allow impressive natural light to flow through​,​ as well as original features​,​adding sophistication and refinement to any event.

Elegant event space
Book Here

Looking for more event spaces near me? Or for general event spaces to rent in London?

Use HotPatch to browse a full selection today. Or, if you’re looking to make money from your own event space, you can list with us too. They don’t need to be as enormous, or as fancy. A Patch is what you make of it.

For any further questions, please do reach out to us in the comments below, online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

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Coworking Creative Creative space Creative studio Events Freelance Music studio Music studio hire Photography production studio Rehearsal studio hire Studio Studio hire Studio Rental

7 Music Studios To Hire in London

Your music deserves a studio-quality recording. And where else to get studio-quality sound than in a music studio?

With our selection of studios to rent in London, we’re making it simpler to be able to produce your dream song or album, by giving it the quality finish it deserves. 

Let’s get you the bit there with the space you need.

Visit HotPatch for the full selection, or check out our hand-picked studios below

London’s Floating Recording Studio

My opinion all of a sudden is that too many albums are recorded on land. Why not record your next classic on a 550-tonne ship? This unique London music studio, also doubles as a photo shoot and filming location, and comes with a large live room and deck for recording sessions. 

Best music studio to rent in London? This might be a safe bet. 

Floating Recording studio
Book Here


Writing & Recording Studio in Central London

When you think of top studios to rent in London, we want you to think of this comfortable and aesthetic recording studio & writing space, used by artists, vocalists, producers and record labels. 

Living inside one of London’s “best kept secret” creative houses, this studio is purpose built to have “above industry standard” equipment, software & plugins for you to get the best results.

Resident producers & engineers on standby to monitor your recording so everything runs smooth. It also has tons of breakout spaces (chill out zones) , free Nespresso coffee and Circadian lighting to power you and your music.

Equipment provided:

Aston Spirit Microphone, an original 1983 Rhodes Stage MKII that has been voiced and tuned to perfection, the Audient iD44, iMac pro, a pair of Yamaha HS7 Monitors & two sets of Audio Technica professional monitor headphones. 

Includes: a range of other Professional Microphones Available, including a Shure KSM42 Microphone & a stereo matched pair of AKG C414’s.

A suspended Vocal Isolation Booth, Ergonomic moving workstation, Wall box with 10 XLR channels, 4 headphone channels, 1 HDMI + 1 CAT 6, Acoustically treated, Fully air conditioned, Circadian Lighting & a Philips air purifier. DAW/Software: Logic Pro X, Ableton Live & Adobe Audition. 

Use something different? Just let the studio owners know, they’re happy to add new software depending on how long / frequently you’re planning on using their Studio Spaces. 

All avaialble in a Fine Tuned Acoustically treated studio, Fully air conditioned with Circadian Lighting & a Philips air purifier.

Central London music studio
Click Here

Rent a Recording Studio in North London 

Built for tracking vocals and instruments, this modern recording studio has a control room for music production, plus an in-house engineer upon request. The studio has everything to allow for maximum creativity whilst offering a productive environment for an engineer and artist. 

Professional music studio. This is it. 

Equipment provided:

Universal Audio Apollo x4 

Focal Twin 6BE 

Neve 1073 SPX 

Neumann TLM107 

Aston stealth 

Native Instruments S61 MK2 

Focal Listen Pro 

Logic Pro X 

Pro Tools \ 

Ableton Live 10 3. 

Native Instruments Library Upgrade 

Fabfilter Total Bundle 

Soundtoys 5 Bundle 

iMac 27”

North London music studio
Book Here

Music Studio For Hire in South London

Studio for hire, available for both music production, plus podcast recording and live-streaming. Open and comfortable environment for artists to perform at their best.

South London recording studio
Book Here

Music Studio To Rent in North London

Lively music studio with full backline and acoustic piano. Free tea & coffee, plus a music equipment shop on-site.

Equipment provided:

Drum kit, bass amp, two guitar amps, upright acoustic piano, vocal microphones & stands, PA.

North London music studio
Book Here

Listening, Screening and Mastering Studio

This studio is ideal for writing, production, mastering and listening — easily set up for filming and screening too with its secure & strong connectivity. An in-house engineer is available upon request.

Large modular sofas, impeccable audio, mood lighting and a large LCD screen, make this versatile studio perfect for whatever creative project you’re working on.

Whether you are fine-tuning your latest track, or looking for inspiration for your next one, this room will provide the environment you need.

Equiptment provided:

Focal Trio 6BE 

Universal Audio Twin x Quad 

Native Instruments KOMPLETE KONTROL S61 MK2 

Pro tools 

Logic Pro X 

Ozone Advanced mastering suite 

iMac 27”

Listening, screening and mastering
Book Here

Production Music Studio in North London

Plug in & Play production suites , designed for one person. Comfortable privacy Our ‘hot desk’ style production suites are easy to use andperfect for solo mixing sessions. Ideal for the quick ideas youneed to get down or for an extended private session.

Equipment Provided: 

Focal shape 65

SSL 2+ 

Native Instruments 

KOMPLETE KONTROL A49 

Aston stealth x 1 

Aston halo x 1

Production zone
Book Here

Looking for more recording studios near me? Or perhaps podcast studios near me?

Use HotPatch to browse a full selection of either. Or, if you’re looking to make money from your music studio, you can list with us too.

For any further questions, please do reach out to us in the comments below, online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

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Barber chair to rent Coworking Freelance Hair & Beauty hairstylist chair to rent Make-up Nail Station Nail Station Salon Salon chair to rent stylist space Wellness

10 Salon Chairs To Hire in London

Looking for a spare salon chair to rent? Thinking, ‘is there a salon rental space near me?’ HotPatch has a collection of salon chairs to rent from all across London.

Treat yourself and your clients to a seat in one of our unique Patches, or significantly cut your commute time by finding your nearest local salon chair.

See our selection below, or check out more space to rent on our website.

1. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent in Victoria

In the heart of Victoria, London, rent a chair with this friendly, boutique hair salon. With its distinctive fashionable decor​,​ versatility in music and unpretentious atmosphere, it’s the place to be. 

Book Here
2. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent in Finsbury Park

Busy salon with a chair to rent, high footfall and situated in the beautiful Finsbury Park, minutes walk from the underground station. 

Book here
3. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent in Putney

Scissors and alcohol isn’t normally a winning combination, but the wine selection here is for customers to purchase or sample, which makes this elegant salon, a unique and classy choice for your client. 

Book Here
4. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent in West Finchley

A salon with a stylish, modern and clean aesthetic available to rent in West Finchley. 

Book Here
5. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent — Notting Hill

Need to rent a salon chair in West London? A sleek and contemporary salon available in Notting Hill. Indoor parking available for exactly this one scooter.

Click here
6. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent— Abbey Gardens

With a mirror big enough to reflect upon all of my past mistakes, we’ve got this beautifully designed salon in Abbey Gardens. Impress your clients with this salon choice.

Book Here
7. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent in Morden

Live around Morden? We’ve got a spot in this elegant salon that has hairdresser chairs for rent that might take yours and your clients fancy. 

Click Here
8. Hair Stylist Chair To Rent in Battersea 

Well designed, modern salon in beautiful Battersea. The kind of place you’d walk past and say, ‘I’d love to work there.’ And now, with HotPatch, it’s possible.

Book Here
9. Salon Chair To Rent — White City

Hair salon that will give you ‘all the flexibility you need.’ Great location near Westfield and by the BBC, attract some great customers with a chair in this White City Salon.

Book Here
10. Chair for Stylist To Rent— East London

New​ and​ very nicely decorated, modern salon in East London. Two spare chairs being offered for hair stylists in this friendly Patch, with adjoining kids salon.

Book Here

From cheap, affordable salon chairs to rent, to barber space rental in London, you can now browse more Patches on our platform.

Check us out at HotPatch.com. 

Are you a freelance hairdresser? 

Been asking yourself, ‘can I rent salon space?’ 

Well here’s your answer. 

For any further questions, please do reach out to us in the comments below, online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

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Coworking Finance Freelance Hair & Beauty Wellness

7 Things To Include In Your Contract As A Therapist

Panicking about what to include in your therapy contract? Need to talk to someone about it? HotPatch has a few key suggestions below.

Therapist room

1. Keep it confidential

Confidentiality in this trade is essential. Include information about confidentiality, and also its’ exceptions.

We recommend you get your client to specifically sign this section, or even have them tick each individual exception for further clarity.

2. Personal Information Storage

Let the client know which personal details you are going to hold, why you are holding them, how they will be safely kept and stored, as well as how long you intend to keep them after their sessions have ended.

Inspire confidence in your client that their sensitive data is safe in your hands.

3. Cancellation

Clients, and especially new clients, will likely want to read your cancellation policy before signing up.

Give details on how far in advance they need to cancel, and whether they still need to pay upon cancellation. Provide a description of the best way they can contact you in regards to a cancellation too. If they’d like to end the sessions altogether, what is the best procedure?

Therapy metaphor

4. Don’t Forget Your Fees

One to always keep in mind as a freelancer.

State your fees clearly in the therapy contract. How much are the sessions? When will they be paid? Upfront or retrospectively? Let them know the best way to pay you, whether that is a cash payment, or through a bank transfer.

5. Session Volume

Provide a little clarity on the sessions themselves. Detail their frequency, and the length. Are they always the same length/time for example?

What if the client needs to alter an appointment day or time? If you answer these queries up front, you will save yourself time down the line in answering FAQs individually.

6. Client Responsibilities

The client will be responsible for decisions made outside of the sessions, and for their own thoughts, feelings and actions. You might want to clarify that they mustn’t take drugs, or drink before or during the session, or any other safety stipulations.

7. Digital Therapy

If your classes are conducted online, they will need instructions on how to access the platform you use, and on how the session will be impacted if their internet is shaky, or if they’re unable to access sessions for electronic reasons.

They will need to know that they cannot record the session. Ease any concerns that may arise from the therapy session taking place online, i.e. they are still in a safe space to speak their mind.

Got a therapy room to rent? Need to hire a therapy room near you?

Check out our stock of Hot Patches, including therapy rooms, treatment rooms and more.

Check us out at HotPatch.com

Reach out to us online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

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Fitness Freelance Studio Wellness

5 Reasons To Hire A Fitness Studio Privately

5 Reasons To Hire A Private Fitness Studio

Fitness Studio
T2Studio in Liverpool, available at HotPatch.com

If you were offered the opportunity to hire a fitness studio privately each week, you might say, come off it; I’m not Bill Gates. Unless you are Bill Gates of course, in which case you’re probably thinking, ‘I actually am Bill Gates’ almost all of the time.

Private fitness studios rentals aren’t all as expensive as you might assume, as HotPatch can attest to, with its most inexpensive studio for hire in Liverpool at only £10 an hour.

Most personal trainers may never have considered this studio option; perhaps largely because of the cost assumptions that come with the term ‘private.’ You may not have even realised this was an option available to you in the first place.

So here are HotPatch’s top 5 reasons why hiring a private fitness studio could work for you and your client, over using a public gym.

#1 Peace & Quiet

Private studios are far more peaceful. If you’ve never trained in one, it might come as a genuine surprise to hear only your own, or your client’s movements as you exercise. No more rogue grunts or weird gym music playlists to contend with. This means you can communicate more clearly, and freely too. Feel like adding a bit of sound volume to your pep-talk? Go for it.

Training in silence can also be more focussed and meditative, which will likely lead to a more motivated session.

#2 No Waiting For Equipment

Imagine the feeling of entering the gym and thinking, ‘all we need today is the squat rack and I’m good’ and then being forced to wait impatiently for 30 minutes as a group of four twelve-year olds superset their iffy high-rep leg routine.

But in a private studio, the equipment is all yours. Your options are limitless. You can dive between squat rack, bench, dumbbells and not have to be concerned about any etiquette, or turn-waiting, or being forced to only use the one rear-delt machine no one is using for 60 minutes (you can always tell someone uses a busy public gym when their rear-delts are gigantic).

Rather than bouncing between the left and right side of the gym to alternative your exercises, a private studio has everything you need in one place for a concise and efficient workout.

Get your client to the equipment they need when they need it, and they’ll leave feeling more satisfied too.

Spacious fitness studio

#3 Workout With Just Your Team

Capturing that spirit of camaraderie can make training incredibly fun. And when you’re with just your own team, you can work at your own pace and really challenge one another in an open environment.

So don’t worry about losing that inherent sense of competition you get in a public gym as you randomly compete with the strangers and trainers next to you. When you’re in a private gym, it’s all about you and your trainee, and so staying engaged in the workout will be easy.

#4 Take The Ego Out Of It

As you may have found with home workouts, working out in a private space does help to take the ego element out of your lifts, which can so often be detrimental to your form.

So what if you’re lifting lighter, or moving slower? In a private gym, none of this matters. Film your lifts, check your form, and slow it down all you want. A private gym will help remind your client that a gym workout is about them and their own training, and not their progress in relation to anybody else.

Hopefully this will help grow their confidence, especially if they’re new and want to learn how to use the equipment properly, without feeling a little embarrassed or insecure. Often a big reason people delay going to the gym is due to the public ‘shame’ element, and so mentioning that you have a private studio option, may be a huge selling point to the potential clients you’re marketing to.

Man at gym

#5 You Can Do Those Really Weird Exercises You Weirdo

You know that video you saw of that guy holding a planche on a medicine ball? Well you can all fail that move as many times as you want in perfect privacy. You can messily shadow box, spider crawl up and down the gym and swing that kettlebell like you’re beating a rug, and the only person there to judge you is you. Practice, practice and practice until you’re finally ready to pop into a public gym and do that headstand on the mats you’ve always dreamed of doing.

Home workouts for those that committed to them over the last year or so, proved to have their upsides. A quieter space and a more self-focussed environment were all bonuses. Many of us realised how vital possessing the right kind of space is for exercising right.

Private studios can bridge the gap between the need for solitude, and the need for proper equipment, and all within a budget too.

Check out our stock of private exercise Patches, including yoga studios, dance studios and more!

Check us out at HotPatch.com

Reach out to us online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

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Coworking Freelance Office Space

4 Reasons Why Coworking Works For Your Business

4 Reasons Why Coworking Works For Your Business

Fisheries coworking space
The Fisheries, available to book on HotPatch.com

Businesses over the last year have had the opportunity to take a moment of introspection, and a key takeaway is that most companies could be making a greater effort to actively support their workers in making their space work for them.

One simple way this could be done is the potential of ditching the old tradition of leasing permanent office space year after year, in favour of flexible coworks that can fit around employee’s lives and locations.

Here are HotPatch’s top 4 reasons why startups should hire a coworking space.

#1 Easy on the Budget

Permanent office space can be incredibly pricey. But big businesses have historically stuck with them; perhaps largely out of fear that the alternative of WFH or renting coworks would lead to demotivation in staff or a lack of productivity. What 2020 taught us is that assumption is far from the truth.

The market for coworks remains competitive, and the growth in this industry has led to lower overall prices. Hiring a coworking space can offer a cheaper alternative, perfect for a lean startup company.

#2 Communication & Networking

Zoom and Microsoft Teams proved that communication is possible at any distance, but also that miscommunication is possible at any distance too. Internet lag, and bad Wi-Fi has been a contributing factor to frustrations in the workplace at home.

“The danger of miscommunication with fully-remote working is higher, and companies have realized how important it is to have meetings, brainstorming sessions, and social events actually in-person.” — TechRound

While there are some benefits to remote working from home or working in a traditional office, an in-between is proving favourable to a lot of companies. Providing a space where employees want to spend time and be creative, whilst maintaining regular physical interaction is a healthy solution to either extreme.

Coworking spaces bring together like-minded people, and can provide an excellent opportunity to meet individuals from across a range of industries.

You may meet eventual clients, partners, investors, suppliers, or simply have the chance to trade tips and tricks learned from your own unique business experiences. Many coworking spaces offer exclusive events for this very purpose. Who knows who you might meet in one of our Patches.

Coworking space

#3 Attract the Best

Your business is obviously seeking the top talent out there. But now the top talent has realized they have a choice between a company that allows them to work anywhere, and one that will keep them commuting to an office in an awkward and potentially far-out location.

Allowing your employees to choose their own coworking locations, or having a private office in a coworking space, may very well be the tipping point for talent in choosing your company over a business with more stubborn office space practices.

“HotPatch makes it incredibly easy and simple to be able to do things physically and feel connected to my team in person, after living fully digital!” — Natasha, modelme, London

#4 Flexibility

A standard office lease can be hundreds of pages, whereas coworking agreements are often only 3 to 4 pages. Deciding upon an office space for the next 15 years can be an unnerving prospect with the implicit uncertainty in the world of business. Coworking spaces allow you and your company to be more agile in the way you work. Flexibility is also key when it comes to what you need, maybe you just need a meeting room to hire in London for the day? Maybe it’s hiring a coworking space for a week? Or maybe you just really to rent a desk nearby. Freedom to choose always wins.

It also means you can scale easier within a single cowork, renting only the hot-desks you need when you need them.

Different businesses

A coworking or a hybrid coworking model may very well be the future for a lot of businesses, big or small.

Coworks are affordable, can improve communication and agility, plus they provide opportunities for networking and retaining talent, and may just be the secret sauce in taking your startup to new heights.

If you’re looking for space, HotPatch has the Patches you need.

Check us out at HotPatch.com

Reach out to us online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

Categories
Creative Freelance Hair & Beauty Make-up

HotPatch catches up with Jodie Sheehan: How do you organise your freelance Make Up Artist kit?

HotPatch catches up with Jodie Sheehan: How do you organise your freelance Make Up Artist kit?

What a pain it is for a freelance make up artist when your kit is in disarray: carrying around more bags than you have arms and shoulders for, making several trips back and forth to the car, or leaving an essential item at home.

Fear not freelancers, HotPatch has sought the help of our talented and insightful friend @jodiesheehanmua, who has a few tips to help you declutter your MUA kit and make freelancing an absolute joy. Who doesn’t feel a whole lot better organised?

Make Up Artist Jodie Sheehan

I’ve recently reorganised my kit for when I freelance and I can now carry it all in one go without numerous trips back and forth to the car. Hopefully these tips can help other freelancers going through the same pain!

Main large clear bag

This bag holds all of the makeup in your kit. External pockets are handy for extra storage, and the clear plastic means that you don’t have to dig around for pencils and brushes.

Make Up Artist bag

Clear pencil cases

Yes, these are just pencil cases! 99p ones from home bargains to be exact! They’re so handy I have one for foundations, one for eye products, one for lipsticks and one for powders.

Pencil case
Brush bag

I used to carry my brushes in a regular wash bag and lay them all out on the surface I was working from when freelancing. However, this bag is game changing!

I’m sure all MUA’s will know how limited for space we can be, so anything to help with that is soo welcome. It’s basically a giant freestanding brush pot.
It also has a handy pocket which I keep my disposable applicators, hair clips and scissors in.

Brush bag
Any more essentials?

The best swap I made was from a ring light to a panel light! These are really compact and easy to carry. Then I have a mirror, hand gel, IPA and @isoclean_southwales. Last but not least…. Blitz Roll is a lifesaver! I’ve previously used it to protect surface tops from my products, general cleaning, along with isoclean to clean my brushes and to dry off bouquets before handing them out to bridesmaids… this stuff is essential!

What are your Freelance Make Up Artist Kit essentials?

Reach out to us online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

Categories
Barber Coworking Creative Events Fitness Freelance Hair & Beauty Make-up Office Space Photography Studio Wellness

Stand out from the Crowd: The Definitive Guide to Listing your Patch

Stand out from the Crowd: The Definitive Guide to Listing your Patch

Grab users attention with a few top tips on listing your space to rent with HotPatch.

Is your HotPatch listing getting the attention it deserves?

Patch Tips and Tricks

We have tried to make the process of listing a workspace with HotPatch as simple as possible, but here are a few tips to help you on your way to creating an appealing and successful Patch listing.

1. Name your Patch

Grab all the attention your Patch deserves. Just what is it about your workspace that Users will love so much? Perhaps it’s in a busy and popular part of town? Maybe it is impressively decorated? Or it could be a large and flexible space that caters for a range of activities? Whatever it is, be sure to mention it.

Name your Patch

Examples that we like are:

· Stylish and professional salon in the heart of Newcastle

· Hidden gem yoga studio in East London.

2. Describe your Patch

This is your chance to tell Users all the things about your Patch that they might not be able to find in your amenities list or photographs. A great description can help to build an impressive picture in the mind of a User and lead to more bookings.

Describe your Patch

Be honest and accurate and include any details that might be helpful to a User e.g. the Patch is at the top of a long staircase, the art studio is shared with two other artists, or the Patch is a two-minute walk from Old Street Station. Such details set Users’ expectations and ensures positive reviews.

Examples that we like are:

· A newly renovated fitness studio located on a busy high street that is easily accessible and includes all the space and equipment you need for your clients.

· An elegantly designed beauty salon and creative hub for beauty enthusiasts and industry freelancers. This Patch is on the second floor of a gorgeous Georgian townhouse that overlooks the Cathedral Gardens in Liverpool city centre.

3. Setting your availability

Setting your Patch Availability
Whether you are renting your workspace out on an hourly or daily basis, it is important that you block out the times and dates in your calendar for when your Patch is unavailable. Remember to also update your calendar so potential Users can see your Patch’s true availability.

4. Patch rules

Patch Rules

We have created a list of general rules that we think all Patch Hosts will hope Users adhere to. If there are any other rules that are specific to your workspace, then please include them, as this helps to set expectations and boundaries for Users.

5. How much does it cost?

The cost of your Patch is a major consideration for any potential User, and so it should also be a major consideration for you as the Host.

How much does your Patch Cost

Think about all that your workspace offers, including amenities and location, and then think of a price that offers good value for money.

Some questions that you might want to think about are:

· How much would I pay for my own Patch?

· What is the cost of other similar Patches?

· Would lower costs help to establish my workspace?

6. Take great snaps

High-quality photographs can make all the difference when it comes to Users booking your Patch. Alongside the name of your Patch, your main photo will be the first impression that a User has of your workspace, so make it a good ‘un.

Take Great Snaps

Below are a few tips we have put together to help you take some great snaps.

  • Take the time to spruce up your Patch and remove any clutter (overfilled bins, wires etc.) so that it is looking its best.
  • Try to take photos during the day and when natural lighting is brightest. This will help your Patch look warm and inviting. You can always turn on lamps to illuminate any dark corners.
  • Avoid using the flash on your camera or phone as it can make the photo look harsh.
  • To ensure that the shot is straight, you can use the grid feature on your camera or phone and line the grid up with a wall or piece of equipment.
  • Don’t be afraid to kneel or crouch to get a main piece of equipment or furniture into the photo. Just try to avoid standing on your tippy-toes and taking the picture above your head as this can distort the photo and give a strange, angled impression of your workspace.
  • Walk around your workspace and take pictures from different angles to show off all the best features of your Patch. Add a variety of pictures, perhaps from the entrance of the workspace, the kitchen area, waiting room, or outside area to build a guided tour of your Patch.
  • Ensure that your photos are at least 1024 x 683px, or as high-quality as your camera or phone will allow. Also, be sure to use your camera or phone in landscape.
  • Users will enjoy seeing the features, quirks, and personality of your Patch. Get up close to snap any details like artwork or an arrangement of flowers.
  • Finally, many cameras and phones will have inbuilt editing tools, so don’t despair if your photo doesn’t come out perfectly first-time round. Adjusting the brightness, contrast, and saturation can dramatically improve any image. Just remember not to overdo it as photos should look as natural as possible.

Here is a final checklist of things to do before publishing your listing.

Final Checklist

✓ Give your Patch the perfect name.

✓ Bring your workspace to life with a great description, but remember, be honest and accurate.

✓ Outline expectations and rules for Users.

✓ Set up your availability in your calendar.

✓ Choose the right price.

✓ Take great photos with natural light and take a good handful of them too.

Need help in finalising your Patch listing, or want to have a chat with us about your space?

Reach out to us online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch

Categories
Events Finance Fitness Freelance Hair & Beauty

Budget 2021: What does it mean for me?

Budget 2021: What does it mean for me?

Today, the Chancellor of the Exchequer delivered his Budget statement. The Budget includes a three-part plan to protect the jobs and livelihoods of the British people affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Key points affecting personal care businesses include:

  • The furlough or ‘job retention’ scheme — which pays 80% of employees’ wages — will be extended until the end of September 2021. After July, businesses will be asked for a 10% contribution, rising to 20% in August and September.
  • Support for the self-employed will be extended to September.
  • As the economy reopens in the summer, the government will help people whose turnover has fallen by 30% or more the most.
  • The universal credit uplift of £20 a week will go on until September.
  • The National Living Wage will rise to £8.91 from April.
  • Businesses will be given incentive payments of £3,000 for new hires of any ages.
  • Corporation tax will increase to 25% in 2023. Only businesses with profits of £250,000 or greater will be taxed at the full 25% rate.
  • Small businesses with profits of £50,000 or less will be protected by a Small Profits Rate, maintained at the current rate of 19%.
  • Mentioning the personal care sector, the chancellor announces £5bn for new Restart Grants in April ‘to help businesses reopen and get going again’. Non-essential retail businesses in England will receive a one-off cash grant of up to £6,000 per premises. Hospitality and leisure businesses — including personal care and gyms — ‘will be more impacted by restrictions when they open’ so can receive grants of up to £18,000.

The Chancellor also said that the Government are introducing a new Recovery Loans Scheme as the Bounce Back Loan and Business Interruption Loan schemes are coming to an end.

Businesses of any size can apply for loans from £25,000 up to £10m, through to the end of this year. The government will continue to stand behind these Recovery Loans, providing lenders with an 80% guarantee.

For more info please see here: https://www.gov.uk/

Want to let us know what you think of the latest budget statement?

Reach out to us online or on our social media channels:

Instagram: @HotPatch_ | Twitter: @HotPatch_ | Linkedin: HotPatch