Business Profile: Evoke Digital Entertainment

Name: Paddy Poyntz
Business: Evoke Digital Entertainment
T: 07920140995
E: hello@evokeweddingcompany.com
Business Profile: Evoke Digital Entertainment

Can you describe your business?

We supply visual and digital entertainment for events and weddings. Our Fotopod fotobooths provide a major talking point and centre of fun at every event should that be a wedding, corporate ‘do’ or party. Our wedding photobooth is particularly popular and allow guests not just to have photos taken but also the opportunity to leave heartfelt video messages for the bride and groom. Our light letters are four feet high and add a dramatic backdrop for weddings and events.

Why did you start your own business?

I had worked with similar products with companies in the UK and found that the events market here in Ireland both north and south did not have access to high quality entertainment products. However it’s not just about the product; the service has to be first class as well. I felt that if we could combine both then we would be onto a winner.

What are the best things about running your own business?

Making your own decisions and being responsible for the direction the company takes. I can be as creative as my cash flow allows me! We initially targeted the wedding market but now expanding into corporate and other events. We are going through a rebranding exercise and changing our online and social media marketing content so it’s a very exciting time. Bringing new ideas to fruition and seeing how well they work is incredibly rewarding. It is vitally important that we keep ahead of the game so we are always on the lookout for something different.

What are the main challenges facing the business?

Logistics can be a nightmare as we try to be in four places at once! We therefore need the right people to be committed and reliable working for us. As most of our business is at the weekend it is always a challenge to have the resources available to get everything in the right place at the right time. It can be tempting to overstretch yourself, however we have learned very quickly to limit the number of events we take so that our service side is maintained to the highest level.

What advice would you give to someone starting a business?

If you believe you can do it and enjoy it, then go for it. Don’t think that owning your own company will make you a millionaire – it rarely happens. However it will give you freedom of choice and keep you inspired to develop as a person. Never cut corners and your spending to what you can realistically afford. Don’t be afraid of debt – it’s as much a tool of your business as you and your products are. Review your business plan frequently. The internet and social media services are massively under-utilised especially by new businesses – spend time to see how effective they can be for your business.

Can you describe your experience of running a business in three words or less?

Fast and furious!