Matchsticks or Burning?

Sometimes I am asked how do I stay alert when driving at night time. Many of us have probably seen images of Mr Bean using various means to stay awake when driving a long distance through France through the night. These include using match sticks to keep his eyes open as well as putting his fingers into the cigar lighter to evoke pain to keep him alert.

I can honestly say that I have not tried either of those methods and neither do I intend to!

So, joking aside, how can this be done, when your body is naturally closing down at night time and wanting rest?

I have to say that those of us who work at night as well as day, need to find times to get the rest and sleep that our bodies need before we take to the road. So for me, preparation is key when I know in advance that I am going to be driving at night. My family also help me with this and keep reminding me to get the rest I need.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists, now call IAM Roadsmart, we have what we call a cockpit drill, P O W D E R Y, which is a check list to be used to ensure the car is ready for a journey but also ourselves. It checks the following:

P - Propulsion, is there enough diesel or petrol for the journey?

O - are the Oil levels correct?

W - do the Water levels need topping up?

D - is there any Damage on the body work of the car that needs fixing?

E - are the Electrics working correctly?

R - checking the Rubbers, so, tyres and wipers.

Y - You - so am I fit to drive?

Of the above, the last one mentioned is ourselves - we must only drive when fit to do so. So given this, my top tips that seem to work for me, knowing that these and, or others, work for different people, are the following. When passengers/clients are onboard, the temperature is often set for their comfort and not my own, so the below are the ones that work for me:

• I give myself a running commentary of what I am observing on the route ahead, so that I am prepared for a change in road circumstances. I do not speak this out loud!

• Extra strong mints and Fishermans Friends, help me to sharpen my mind

• My seat is positioned so that it is not too comfortable - often very close to the dashboard

• I alternate my air vents near me so that are focussed on my face or hands

Once I have delivered my clients and I am on my own in the car, I take a break as soon as I can, grab a coffee and then set myself up for the journey back to our base. Then, I do not have to keep the car cosy and warm and I can revert to whatever my body needs, so that can include the following:

• Keeping my fluids up

• Music

• Make the car cool and open windows if needs be

• Take appropriate breaks and rest

I hope the above helps anyone else, but the overriding rule, is that we should only drive when safe to do so. 

No more match sticks and burning fingers!!

From Proms to Sally Army!

As well as exhibiting at some wedding shows, we have been exhibiting at School Prom Shows and I would like to tell you about a very long day at the McArthur Glen Outlet Centre, Swindon when we joined with Prom Day and many other exhibitors.

The day was earlier in February 2018, and was a very cold day indeed.

The position we were given to display our licensed silver Jaguar XFS was just outside the main north entrance to the centre along with KevsKampers, who provide self drive camper vans for both weddings and self drive hire holidays.

One of the great things about these shows is that even though, they and us were both looking to find clients for school proms, there is always a great deal of respect for each other and a willing spirit to help each other.

I was very pleased that I had my travel mug of coffee full, but that soon went down, and this was not missed by Kevin and his team who were very quick to offer me a fresh coffee from their camper van - how kind!

We arrived at the centre at 8am along with others, to ensure we were all set up ready for when the public arrived around 10am. We were not due to leave until after 6pm, so a long day ahead of us.

In addition, we had a table in the main display area inside where our slide presentation was on a loop[ displaying the whole time. The table was manned by 2 of our reserve wedding car chauffeurs swopping over after midday.

Our stand was also shared with Kate Southall from KE Southall Photography who went around the show during the day taking provisional photographs of the events during the day, whom we can fully recommend!

So, now to a few of the funny stories that happened during the day - never a dull moment.

Meeting the public of all ages and backgrounds is usually quite eventful. 

Bearing in mind how cold the day was, I was dressed in my full chauffeur suit along with my cap and overcoat, prepared for the temperature. At one particular moment I was holding my travel coffee mug and handing out leaflets and business cards, catching people’s attention, when a gentleman came over to me, placed a pound coin on top of my mug saying ‘Oh I thought you were the Salvation Army’, and then very quickly took the coin away.

I’m not sure what he thought about the Salvation Army going up market with an executive Jaguar by the side of me!

On another occasion, some older teenage lads came over to me and asked whether I also took escorts in my car. I played it cool and asked him what he meant. He was fumbling around trying to work out what to say when his mate said that he meant prostitutes, to which I replied ‘I don’t think so’

His response then was, ‘Why are you dressed like an undertaker?’, to which I replied ‘because its cold out here all day!’

At that time, I also had my black fleece on under my jacket as well as my black overcoat on top.

I guess a full chauffeurs uniform can look very similar to a funeral director, especially when I wear a black tie!

Lost!

Have you ever lost a significant and expensive item?

Well, this week’s blog is about the time when I was collecting some clients from Heathrow Terminal 5. 

All was going so well and following my SMS to my clients they ordered from me their preferred coffee choice, I queued up at the Cafe Nero in Arrivals and sent another SMS to them saying I was in the coffee queue.

Although my back was turned, I was unaware that they had just come through Arrivals and as I turned, there they were - they had no difficulty finding me as once again, I was the only one wearing a chauffeurs cap.

They were pleased to see me and I was able to present them with their coffees.

We proceeded towards the lifts and after I paid for the parking, we walked the short distance to the car, with me pushing one luggage trolly and they had the other one. All going so well.

I opened the doors for them, and then loaded the luggage into the car. We were soon on the way back.

They were getting comfortable in the back of my car, and I progressed through the terminal and safely negotiated the airport traffic - this can be quite a challenge for those not used to it.

Onto the M4 we went and then, it struck me……………….

My iPad. Oh no, I left it on the luggage trolley. It was then that I felt really uncomfortable, as I already knew my clients needed to be back at their place for a meeting that afternoon, and besides that, I was never going to let them know what I had just done - the level of service and our branding is after all, stress free for our clients. All I wanted to do, was get off the M4 on the next junction and go back and pick my iPad up - after all I knew exactly where I left it. All I could do was pray like mad that it was safe.

We continued on the M4 for the 90 mile journey until my clients were safely delivered to their home, totally unaware of what was going on in my mind.

Next stop for me was LHR T5, again!

Keeping to the speed limits, I got there in good time and managed to park in exactly the same place as I was earlier, but there was no iPad to be seen. Not happy!

Next stop, Lost Property. Their response was to record the details on a form and face the reality that it was most probably stolen. 

I went back home with what it felt like, my tail between my legs. That was Thursday.

Saturday morning, I still had heard nothing from Heathrow, and I said to my family, that I am going to get another iPad and cut my losses. It was then that my daughter Hannah, suggested I call Heathrow, so I did, expecting the worse.

To my utter astonishment, they were asking questions like, ‘what picture is on the front?’ When I said my silver Jaguar, they then asked the model number and after I told them, they then confirmed that they had my iPad!

The relief and surprise was tangible. Overjoyed and I went back to Heathrow that afternoon.

After negotiating my way to Lost Property, I was reunited with my iPad and I can honestly say thank God, and the Heathrow staff who found it and went through their procedures to log it correctly.

Lesson learnt - or I just hope I have!

It's Show Time!

2017 was our first full year providing quality Jaguar wedding cars for many happy couples, 19 in fact, and each one was so much fun. The many reviews on our website bears witness to the high level of personal service we have provided, some of which are part of our 21 5 star google reviews we have received so far.

Also in April 2017, we launched our high quality executive travel chauffeur service and during last year, we completed 44 travel jobs and have again received many testimonials and 5 start google reviews. 

Other activities in the year comprised of building relationships with hotels, local businesses as well as being part of networking groups to widen our exposure helping people and businesses to associate us with a high quality brand of chauffeur services, whether that is for weddings or executive travel.

In addition, we have attended many wedding shows in multiple venues and during the first 3 months of 2018, we continue to exhibit at a number of wedding shows in the area.

I would like to highlight the next one in particular, organised by The Whitewed Directory, the Great Western Wedding Show at STEAM, Swindon on 13th and 14th January 2018.

At this show there will be over 60 wedding suppliers exhibiting and we are taking over the whole of the museum space with such an interesting back drop with all the history that is encapsulated by STEAM. It will be amazing with live entertainment and so many people to see.

I fully recommend coming to chat about your wedding day requirements and, even if you do not have a wedding coming up soon, come along, as there are may suppliers there including ourselves, who do not just do weddings!

The days and weeks leading up to a wedding show of this nature for us as exhibitors, are full of activity such as regular social media posts, ensuring we have enough marketing material like flyers, business cards etc, and also preparing any presentations where on Powerpoint or Keynote, ensuring they are up to date and relevant. Not to mention preparing the cars for show!

Being part of the Whitewed Directory, after the show, we will be sent the Brides List comprising of those couples who have willingly made available their details, so that we can send them follow up emails based on conversation we have had with many of them during the day.

So, that said, the days before the show are spent creating the template emails that after the show, can be used to base our communications back to the engaged couples.

During the shows, we all arrive early to set up and for us with wedding cars, we arrive early enough to make sure that the cars are pristine once again even after the journey there. The stalls are set up and decorated with all our materials, making sure that the Keynote material is working well on the screens.

When the couples arrive, all is calm with us stood by our stands, just waiting to talk to the wonderful couples and discuss their requirements.

We all so much want the day to be fun, informative and interesting for everyone. So much effort goes into making it so, and it really is exciting to chat to so many people and hear about their dreams and hopes for the coming day.

It is always amazing when we who exhibit cars, can clear down so quickly - our personal record is 5 minutes, and after a very long but enjoyable day, we are off home.

The  next few days are all about following up, which we do by means of email and then a phone call. The important thing is that the couples are contacted but do not receive any spam - we make this very clear when chatting to them and keep to our word.

So, here’s to a thrilling wedding show season once again and we look forward to seeing some of you soon!

One final word - we are also looking forward to the Whitewed Awards ceremony on 1st February 2018!

Very Happy Christmas to you all!

During this past week, our family along with millions of others has been trying to complete the final preparations ready for next week as Christmas approaches. It is a very special time indeed and whether you personally celebrate Christmas or not, we would like to wish all our clients and followers a very happy Christmas time and a great New Year!

Happy Christmas to you all!

It is true that the 3 of us have gone down with the common cough and cold, so this has ensured we have spent most of the time this week in our home.

From the business prospective, it has been a valuable time of reviewing the past year and planning for 2018. Time to reflect - what has gone well and where we need to improve.

Generally, we have been immensely encouraged especially from the massive number of meaningful connections particularly on LinkedIn and the 21 5* google reviews that have been sent to us, in addition to the many reviews sent directly by email. 

If you are not yet connected on LinkedIn, do connect and benefit from our regular posts and also from being able to connect to our followers too and expand your own network.

LinkedIn Profile view

To give you an idea, my connections on LinkedIn have grown from around 600 in July to the current level of nearly 5,500 meaningful connections! This is amazing growth in networking and I must give a shout out to Jill Chitty who has helped me in doing this. I can recommend her to anyone wanting to generate an increase in leads on LinkedIn.

Special thanks goes of course, to each one of you who have been willing to watch and connect as our story develops. 

Very special thanks to those of you who have entrusted us for their transport needs either already in 2017 and for the many who have made commitments to use us in 2018!

2017 has seen us provide wedding transport to 19 happy couples and achieve 45 executive travel runs, which has included transport to airports, events and special occasions.

We look forward to 2018 with great expectation as we move this 'start-up' business into a strong brand that will continue into the future providing high quality, reliable and personable executive transport to all - regardless of status. 

We are also so pleased to have been shortlisted for the Whitewed Directory Start Up Business of the Year 2017, and are looking forward to the awards ceremony in February!

Finally, I look forward to seeing more of you in the future and wish you a very fine family and/or rest time over the coming weeks. 

Thank you for your support

Confessions of an Executive Chauffeur

Finally, the plane has landed after a delayed turbulent flight, lasting over 7 hours. My executives all too often experience uncomfortable seating with cabin noise levels and poor quality food that make it hard to actually work, rest or sleep on long haul flights.

Once off the plane, they go through lengthy queues to get through immigration before finally collecting their luggage. Not all my executives have the budget to afford business or first class travel, so fast track is not always an option.

As they enter the arrivals area the automatic doors open and immediately they see me with my suit and cap on, their smile of relief is obvious! With their coffee in hand, I give them a warm welcome back to the UK and take their bags. 

The final leg of their journey begins… 

"Tired, just hope I can now rest and recover" 

• Will my chauffeur be there for me?

• How will I recognise him/her?

• The flight may have been delayed for an hour or more. If he is there, what will the extra charge be for the parking fee?

• How can I get that extra expense approved when I submit for payment?

• I need a coffee and can’t get one as that will only cause more delays. I’m hungry - the in flight food was ‘plastic’!

• My phone battery is flat and I need to let my loved ones know the plane is landed

• I just need to unwind and rest before the next meeting

• I hate travelling in a filthy vehicle as that can give an indication of how careful the driver is - attention to detail!

Preparation before we meet:

Two days before travelling they receive an SMS confirming that I will be there for them,  offering a choice of hot drink

Even after doing a journey before I get to the airport or other pick up location, I clean the car with a detailing spray wax

When a mobile number has been supplied, they know I have SMS’d their dependant to confirm that they have safely landed

Once the plane is landed they receive an SMS confirming I am there with that drink 

Meet & greet

Coming through Arrivals, my executive knows that I will be there, easily  recognisable as I always wear my chauffeur’s cap along with my chauffeur 3 piece suit, their coffee in hand 

It is always a relief to see me, as my executives know they are being cared for - I offer to help with their luggage and after paying for parking (no added charge), I escort them to the pristine Jaguar

Approaching the car 

Once at the car, I open the door(s) and the executive can rest inside while I load their luggage 

Waiting for him in the car, is a bottle of mineral water, snack bar, mints, tissues, quality magazines and a daily newspaper usually of their choice

They can recharge their mobile with charging cables provided using the twin USB points

I confirm that my mobile is on flight mode and the radio remains off, unless they request it

During the journey

Soon after starting the journey, I check that the air con is set correctly for them, and offer a charging cable for their mobile

My executive is able to either rest, make phone calls in private, or work in comfort while I drive them in safety to their destination, making any requested stops en route

I only engage in conversation when the executive initiates it

If they need internet access and their carrier has no reception, I offer them a hotspot off my mobile

On the journey, I drive to maximise their comfort and safety - I plan my breaking and cornering and do not accelerate rapidly

I ensure a steady journey that progresses comfortably within legal limits and at a safe distance from the cars in front

To the door

Once the journey is complete, my executives pay the  pre-agreed amount by any major debit/credit card using our reliable Worldpay card machine. 

No surcharges are added and the price is the same as when they booked initially. They are given an invoice for their records

If raining, I offer to escort them to the door under a large umbrella

How different things are when we are not there. Alternatives being public transport:

After coming off the plane often in a daze: 

Executive needs to find his way to the taxi rank

Stand in a queue not protected from the rain and sometimes next to someone who is smoking

Once his turn comes, often he will have to load his own luggage into the dirty cab, open his own door, and the meter has already started

Then, the executive explains where they are going, noticing that the car is either too hot to too cold and smells of smoke, or worse - ok if you are a smoker but if you are not?

Driving standard is poor and often illegal - the taxi driver is preoccupied with the ear piece which is connected to his mobile (where they use the mobile ‘legally’)

Driver is also known to be ranting about the standards of other drivers

… is talking to his office about the next job or even on his own personal call

… has his arm resting on the door, not in full control the vehicle, braking erratically and swerving from lane to lane carving up others

They are asked about what work the executive is involved in and tells him about his clients he has had in the car before him or discusses the current news having a very strong political opinion that he must share

Close calls

Does all or some of the above sound familiar? Probably, because that has often been my experience in my past employments when I have used a taxi. There are of course, exceptions to the rule and some taxi drivers are far superior to others.

One of the worst taxi trips I have ever experienced was in Istanbul when I was on a business trip for the corporate company I used to work for.

Our team were being taken back to the hotel late at night by two taxis. The drivers drove at an unsafe speed, braked erratically, cornered sharply with the result that we were literally being thrown about. 

Fearing for our lives, for some reason, it seemed they stopped in the middle of the road and refused to go any further. 

We had to pay and get out - I have no idea to this day why and all I can think of is that perhaps we hit a time limit for those particular drivers shift.

That led to me walking back to our hotel alone in the middle of the night through a rather risky part of Istanbul, but that is entirely a different subject!!

On another occasion, I was coming through UK Arrivals and checked through the sea of faces and sheets of paper and card with names on and mine was no where to be seen. 

I checked my emails and messages, and sure enough I had arranged for a lift but he wasn’t there! I rang the taxi company who argued with me but eventually decided to send someone out. I was later home than expected, tired and frustrated.

Other times, a driver was giving me his opinion on an election campaign in the UK, not a great subject that I wanted to engage on when tired from the previous flight and a stressful series of business meetings in a foreign country. “I just want a quiet journey - is that too much to ask for?”

All the above and many more experiences propelled me to offer an entirely different service to my clients once we started our family business.

and finally… 

The options are clear, but the standards are so very different. We provide the high level that defines our executives so that when they arrive they are relaxed, calm and ready to face the next opportunity with a rested mind and body.

ABOUT DAVE

Dave has been working in the corporate world for over 15 years before he decided to set up his own business and provide a much higher standard in chauffeur experience than he ever received himself. As well as being a quality chauffeur for executives and private people, he has also successfully set up a Jaguar wedding car business that exceeds expectations, being selected as a finalist in the Whitewed Startup Business of the Year 2017 - watch this space for the awards ceremony in February 2018!

Additionally, Dave makes sure his driving is of the highest standard and after passing the IAM Roadsmart Advanced Drivers qualification in 2013, he has just passed the IAM Roadsmart Masters qualification as well - demonstrating his commitment to excellence.

Below are just a few of the many recent reviews on our website:

“Earlier this week a colleague of mine and I were at a conference and award evening and decided to travel back home to Fleet in Hampshire and Swindon instead of paying for extremely expensive hotel rooms. We approached Dave and he happily came up with a solution which suited our circumstances along with great value for money. Dave was prompt on arrival and called us and text us to let us know he had arrived and on approaching the front of the hotel, he greeted us like clients and not just BNI members which was great. The journey was very smooth and comfortable in his high quality Jaguar and having a snack bar, water and phone charger made the experience all the more enjoyable. If you are considering any form of travel or booking wedding transport and want to take the worry out of the situation, I would strongly recommend DB executive travel. Thank you Dave" Mark

“The best chauffeur experience we have ever had: exceptionally professional and reliable, for both business and personal circumstances. Could not be any happier with Dave! We will definitely use DB Executive Travel as often as they are available.” Qing

“DB Executive Travel provided me with an airport pick up after a long haul flight and I must say the experience truly was exceptional, every detail was covered including a 'welcome home' coffee. This was no ordinary airport transfer. Thank you!” Adam

Oh I do love to be beside the seaside!

Occasionally, I receive a job that takes me to the coast. A chance to breathe in the wonderfully clean fresh air.

Few weeks ago, that happened again and it was the return journey from Heathrow to Brighton. The plane landed at 06:40 and my clients came through into the Arrivals lounge an hour or so afterwards, and were greeted by coffees which seemed to go down well.

That morning for me started at 04:15 when I left our base and started towards Heathrow, arriving about 06:15. I checked the landing board and the plane was just going to be a few minutes late, so not much different from what I discovered earlier before I left Royal Wootton Bassett. Time enough for me to clean the car with the detailing wax spray.

We were soon on our way out of the airport complex and onto the M25. The usual heavy traffic faced us and we eventually continued down South passing Gatwick on the way.

After being up a long time before, as indeed my clients had, I have to say, I was looking forward to a rest by the sea, before heading back to our base.

I managed to deliver the client to his home by 10am, so I headed off to a place for a coffee and sea view. I found one and was just taking in the fresh air and then the phone rang. 

I received some instructions to get back to our base for the next job, so, no extended rest break before heading back. It is a good job I enjoy my job and have a superbly comfortable big cat to do the journeys in. 

When I do not have a client on board, it is also very nice to spoil myself and listen to some music and the DAB radio. It is also, a time for my own space and I value the times of quiet and silence as I can focus and plan the way the family business is growing.

These times of solitude are so important and I find it helps to clear my head.

It makes me thankful for all the blessings we have in life, very aware of others who are not so blessed.

Typical Admin Day

Having mentioned about what started off as a ‘network meeting’ day last week, I thought I would give an insight into what I do during a working day when not attending network meetings or when I am not sat behind my steering wheel for executive travel or wedding car duty.

Thankfully, the days vary quite a bit, but there is a pattern which goes something like this:

Having already walked the dog and had breakfast, I start the day with cup of tea and do some social media posts which includes Facebook, Twitter and Instagram - I have found for over a year now, it is good to keep our presence on these platforms showing many different types of photographs, usually of the cars on jobs. 

With a good coffee, I’ll then catch up on LinkedIn posts responding back to any inquiries, welcoming new connections and inviting others to connect, thanking for ‘likes’ and ‘profile views’ and responding back on comments made on any of my posts. It is so important to be active on LinkedIn in a way that is personable and shows that I am a real person. I also view what has landed on my wall and like/comment on those that catch my eye. 

During the rest of the morning depending on the weather, I might be cleaning the car(s) from the day/night before, so that they are ready for the next job.

Lunchtime consists of food of course, but also involves taking our dog for another walk. Midday’ish, another post on the 3 social media sites mentioned above.

In the afternoon, I often use that time to catch up on our accounts, emails, or as now, writing a blog, or crafting another post on LinkedIn. 

I am also on the lookout for companies within a local area to our base, where I might be able to develop a relationship that could lead to more business.

The services we provide, can be a genuine help to businesses where, as my LinkedIn profile says, they can receive real benefit from using us.

Of course, all the timing of the above is flexible because I am often with a client on a journey any time day or night or indeed any day. 

As we are running our own business, I have to wear many business hats, and this afternoon, I received a call from a compliance SME who was following up a previous discussion we had, working through our business compliance with regards to the oncoming EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) deadline on 25th May 2018.

Even though we are currently a small family business, we still need to comply and so does every business, no matter how large or small they are.

If you are reading this and are not aware of GDPR, then I urge you to get in touch and I can fully recommend someone who can help. The deadline will come and ignorance will not be a defence. 

'Day Off or Not!'

Earlier this week, I was due to have a networking day. Typically they are a Wednesday which this week started again at 04:15 when I woke on the alarm, took Clover our GSD out for a walk, before getting ready for a BNI networking meeting at Swindon which starts at 06:45. At these meetings it is an opportunity to net work with in excess of 35 local business leaders plus any visitors who have become like colleagues and friends.

After the actual meeting I also had the opportunity in having a 121 meeting with one of the members. After the meeting once back at our Royal Wootton Bassett base, I dealt with a few emails and then went to a 4Networking lunchtime meeting at Chippenham starting at 12:00, but being one of the leaders I needed to get there by 11am. All going well so far.

Then, I had a phone call, before the 4N meeting actually started from an existing client, asking can I pick up his colleague from Swindon at 14:00 to take to LHR T5? Naturally, I responded yet I’ll be there. Question I had to consider is this - Client's needs or networking? Yes, its a no brainer - I gave my apologies and planned to leave for our base.

Thankfully I just had enough time to grab a bite to eat while talking to various people at the 4N meeting, and then had to leave while the meeting continued until 14:00 at Chippenham.

Once back at our base I just had enough time for a quick change of clothes, grab some supplies for my client and then off to Swindon. Thankfully he car wasn’t too dirty, even though it was not as clean as I usually like - the priority this time was the deadline for the ‘last minute.com' for my client! 

The deadline was to get the client to T5 before 15:30. In spite of traffic delays caused by an accident on the M4 with am ambulance weaving through the traffic, we arrived at 15:25 and within all legal road limits.

Objective served and client was happy and relaxed.

This is an example that under extreme circumstances we are always seeking ways to help our clients out even when the notice is short.

On the way back I managed to squeeze in another meeting at Reading to discuss strategy  ]before heading back home.

That evening - it was time to wind down with another GSD walk before getting some shut eye.

Applying the System of Car Control

IAM Roadsmart System of Car Control

Applying the System of Car Control as described by IAM Roadsmart & Roadcraft

The 'System' is a systematic method of driving which, if used correctly, will substantially reduce the risk of a driver being the cause of an accident. A detailed explanation of the System is given in Roadcraft, the police driver's manual, and it is to this book you must refer if you want a thorough understanding. There are five phases of the System which must be considered on the approach to any hazard. A hazard can be the presence and/or movement of any vehicle or pedestrian, a road feature such as a roundabout or a climatic feature such as a sudden downpour of rain.

The five features are:

• Information

• Position

• Speed

• Gear

• Acceleration

The Information phase overlaps every other phase of the System.

• Take information by looking at traffic signs and looking at the position and movement of vehicles and pedestrians. Be aware of observation links i.e. the hazards associated with what can be seen e.g. parked vehicles, a pedestrian flagging a taxi, a garage forecourt, a pedestrian walking to the front of a bus or roadside telephone poles formed into a curved line in the distance. Use your mirrors at any point in the System but particularly before changing position, before slowing or after changing gear i.e. a final check behind before the hazard is reached.

• Use the information you have gathered by making a plan to deal with the identified hazards and making contingency plans for dealing with the unexpected e.g. car doors opening, a taxi suddenly stopping, a car shooting out of a roadside garage, a bus suddenly stopping or a car coming fast out of a bend ahead.

• Give information to other road users e.g. using your indicators to inform them that you are going to change position, using your horn or flashing your headlights to let them know of your presence. Position your vehicle to re-enforce any other form of signal.

Position yourself so that you can pass hazards safely and smoothly. Give a good clearance when passing parked vehicles, cyclists or when overtaking moving vehicles. Follow the advice given in the Highway Code for positioning on the approach to roundabouts. Position yourself when approaching bends in national speed limit areas so as to maximise your view of the road ahead - taking account of oncoming/following vehicles and nearside hazards. Good observation will allow you to make the most effective use of available (legal) road space e.g. taking a clear lane at traffic lights on a dual carriageway. Good positioning smoothes progress.

Speed: Obtain a safe speed to negotiate the hazard. Reduce speed, if need be, by either easing the pressure on the accelerator pedal (deceleration) or by braking. Whatever method is used it is essential to lose speed smoothly.

Gear: Once you have the right speed for the hazard, engage the correct gear for that speed. The aim, almost all of the time, is to have a clean separation between braking and changing gear i.e. no overlapping. Slight overlapping when going downhill into a corner or a bend is acceptable PROVIDED you do the gear change when most of the braking has already been done.

Acceleration: Consider accelerating away from the hazard after taking account of your speed and the position/movement of other road users. The accelerator pedal is NOT an on/off switch to be suddenly pressed to the floor when a hazard has been negotiated. Use the pedal smoothly. 

DB Wedding Cars & Executive Travel shortlisted in first ever The Whitewed Directory Awards

OK so we are super excited to have been short listed for the prestigious award:

It has been announced that DB Wedding Cars & Executive Travel has been shortlisted in the first-ever The Whitewed Directory Awards.
Wiltshire based DB Wedding Cars & Executive Travel is shortlisted for the Start-up Business of the
Year 2017 Award.
The Whitewed Directory is the region’s ultimate resource for grooms and brides-to- be, offering a
definitive directory of vetted and approved wedding suppliers. The Whitewed Directory Awards
were launched in June this year to recognise Wiltshire and Gloucestershire’s best wedding planners and suppliers. 
Creator of The Whitewed Directory, Natalie Lovett, said: “Congratulations to DB Wedding Cars & Executive Travel for being shortlisted in the inaugural The Whitewed Directory Awards.
“We were very pleased to launch these awards earlier this year because we wanted to recognise the high levels of professionalism and incredible standards of service we see from our many dedicated suppliers.
“It’s fantastic that we have had so much interest in the awards and are delighted to have received
many excellent nominations from around the region. All of our shortlisted nominees should feel very proud of themselves for this fantastic achievement and we can’t wait to find out who the winners will be at our exciting awards ceremony in February.”

The judges were impressed with David from DB Wedding Cars & Executive Travel’s professional approach to starting up, and his consistent stream of glowing testimonials from clients.

There are three award categories, Business Person of the Year 2017, Most Inspiring Business Person of the Year 2017 and Start-up Business of the Year 2017.
The winners will be chosen by an independent judging panel made up of three highly respected
industry professionals and will be announced at an awards ceremony taking place on 1st February
2018 at the Doubletree by Hilton Swindon.
The Whitewed Directory covers 40 different types of wedding suppliers throughout Wiltshire and
Gloucestershire, from bands and musicians to cake designers, toastmasters and fireworks suppliers.
Every company recommended has been vetted, approved and accredited with each agreeing to
abide by The Whitewed Directory & strict Code of Practice. Suppliers interested in joining the
directory can call Whitewed on 01793 238921 or email hello@whitewed.directory to find out more.
For more information about The Whitewed Directory Awards and the award ceremony,
visit http://www.whitewed.directory/ww-awards.html
Find out more about The Whitewed Directory: http://www.whitewed.directory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhitewedDirectory
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thewhitewed

Red Sun and Sand Storm

What an amazing week it has been! We have been exceptionally busy and the weather has been extraordinary.

I have been working hard on marketing, especially on LInkedIn, which is a big thing for me seeing as my background was being an accountant for my first 20 years of working life (refer to my earliest blogs), but during the last week, have been busy on the following:

• Friday 13th Pickup a business person from our local area and take to LHR returning late in the evening

• Saturday 14thWedding in Keynsham with the same car as the day before, followed by reception at Ston Easton Park Hotel - meaning early start 8:30 and back around 3:30 just in time to go to our youngest grand daughters 1st birthday party

• Sunday 15thMoonraker Whitewed Wedding Show at Bradford on Avon meaning another early start with Steve, one of our wedding car chauffeurs. Return at 5pm ready to be out again in the evening playing my guitar at church

• Monday 16th Last minute arrangement to pick up an elderly lady who travelled down from Scotland and arrived at Bristol Airport to visit family and bring back to our town. More on this story below.

• Tuesday 17th Lighter day, but a pre-run with my daughter Hannah, when we did the journeys that I will be doing for the Cotswolds wedding tomorrow

• Wednesday 18th Early BNI weekly meeting at 6:45, followed by a lighter day but focussed on marketing

• Thursday 19th Last minute request, meaning an early start at 5am to pick up a business person from Melksham, take to LHR and then a trip to Bath Apple Store to replace my new phone which I dropped a week ago. This is the only phone I have ever dropped, but thankfully I took out Apple Care Plus! Arrived home at 3pm.

So what was different about the Bristol run? It was the day the birds went silent, and the sun shone red and the wind deposited sheds of ‘Sahara’ sand everywhere. It was a very eery experience!

Before I left our base as on every occasion, including the 5am start on the Thursday run, my Jaguar XFS was immaculate, but by the time I arrived near Bristol Airport, when I got out one mile from the airport, I check the car over. 

The car was covered in a dusty film of sand. I had 45 minutes before the scheduled landing time. No time to spare, I just did what I do - I got out my detailing wax spray in the high winds, and cleaned the car off, including the wheels and the door frames.

I then proceeded to the airport short stay parking area, and entered the terminal. I then received an SMS saying the client would probably be last off the plane as she is an ‘assistance passenger’. 

With that knowledge, I approached the assistance desk and inquired about where I could bring my car closer to make it easier for my client. 

I was then able to move the car much closer.

On every journey whether for a wedding or executive travel, our thoughts are for the client on how we make the experience more restful and stress free for them - every time.

There is much pleasure for us in doing this and I trust makes the journey much easier and restful for our clients, whatever is thrown at us, sand and all!

Were you affected by the sand storm at all - feel free to post comments at the foot of this blog.

Airport Transfer Mode - part 2

Following on from last weeks blog on the outward journey to the airport, I thought I would take you all through a typical inward airport journey. The most frequent airports I currently visit are Bristol, Gatwick and Heathrow, although I am able to go to any airport depending on my clients needs.

2 days before, I SMS my client to confirm that I will be at ‘Arrivals’ for them when their plane lands, also confirming the flight number, arrival time and terminal. This again ensures peace of mind that they have not been forgotten.

Once again within 24 hours before I do the journey I ensure that I am not taking in any alcohol whatsoever. to ensure that I am fit to drive within not only legal limits but also within our self imposed limits.

Depending on when the flight arrival time is, I will prepare the car the day before or, early in the day if I am due to meet the client later in that day. By preparing the car, I clean and detail her much as I have described in earlier blogs inside and out.

When it is time for me to leave our base, wearing a black 3 piece suit, white shirt, black tie and a chauffeurs cap, I check the flight to ensure it is scheduled to arrive on time and progress on the journey to the airport.

I arrive in time to once again clean car from the journey there, using a detailing wax spray for waterless cleaning. Since we launched DB Executive Travel, I have not noticed any other chauffeur or driver doing this - it’s attention to detail is what we are focussing on all the time.

Once I am happy with the car, having frequently checked the flight on the monitoring app on my iPhone, I make my way to the terminal with my chauffeurs cap on and iPad in hand already loaded with my clients name on it.

As I progress towards the terminal and as I make my way to the Arrivals area, I am often given a few second looks as they wonder which famous VIP I am picking up. I have now got used to this and I find it quite amusing really!

On a particular occasion, I stood by another chauffeur and checked the landed board (not landed), and as I did, I bid him good afternoon. He responded appropriately and said ‘chauffeurs cap, nice touch. I used to wear one until the car roofs were too low’.

We exchanged chuckles about that and I pointed out that yes, that is an issue and requires careful attention to avoid the obvious mishap, which is why I lower my drivers seat as low as it can go, adjusting mirrors etc and take extra care. Again attention to detail.

I keep watching the landed board and as soon as the status is updated to ‘Landed’ I SMS the client’s spouse to confirm the plane is landed. If it is delayed I SMS appropriately. When landed, I SMS my client to confirm I am here in Arrivals and will remain here until they come through regardless of how long, and ask them to let me know their coffee/tea choice once they get to immigration, so I can get it ready for them. Peace of mind and another nice touch.

As they come through Arrivals, I present them with the drink of their choice and help with their suitcases. As we make our way to the car park I check if they need anything else and I pay for the parking without passing that charge onto my client.

On one particular occasion, when my client came through at Gatwick Arrivals, I heard her very clearly say to her colleague who was not travelling with us ‘Here’s Dave, he’s mine!’ Its good that my clients are so pleased to see me!

The rest of the journey is mostly the same as the outward journey which I described last week in Part 1.

Once we have our first encounter with any client, we aim to do our best to make sure that is not the one and only time they choose us - we are looking for a longer term business relationship by providing exceptional service every time to every client.