Seedrun

Can you give a brief introduction about yourself?

I’m Simon, I am Co-Founder & Director of Partnerships at Ellidore + Thadeus, a luxury lifestyle membership service for the world’s wealthiest people. I also run Blackfords, a Citrus based drinks company.

What inspired you to become an entrepreneur/startup founder?

The desire never to work for anyone else, to achieve my success through my own means. To define how I work & who I work with. My mind works overtime with ideas & plans, so working for someone else never seemed a worthwhile option.

What problem does your startup aim to solve?

We aren’t solving anything, more providing a better option that exists already for the world’s wealthiest people. A “one stop shop” service for them to enjoy life to the max. We are like a family office, except we are helping these people spend their money & enjoy life, rather than investing it.

Can you describe your startup in a single sentence?

A highly personalised lifestyle service for the world’s wealthiest, most fun loving people.

How did the idea for your startup come about?

Over time it has developed into what it is today through demand & a commitment to discreet, honest & value for money service.

What's the most unique aspect of your solution or business model?

We look after and therefor know the spending habits of the top 00.1% of the world’s wealth & for many we facilitate it.

What’s the most challenging aspect of building your startup?

People, finding good talent & limiting overheads.

How have you overcome obstacles and challenges in your journey so far?

Through hard work, being trustworthy, ingenuity & a commitment to providing the best service we can.

What's the most valuable lesson you've learned as a founder?

Culture & hiring the right character is almost more important than experience. The effect a bad character can have on a small business can’t be overstated.

What's the most valuable lesson you've learned as a founder?

Culture & hiring the right character is almost more important than experience. The effect a bad character can have on a small business can’t be overstated.

How do you manage work-life balance, especially with the demands of a startup?

With difficulty as my wife also works full time in a US tech company. We make it work, we work odd hours to get the work done.

What’s the next big milestone for your startup?

Raising £6 million this year.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or startups?

Don’t give too much equity away too soon & be in a hurry but take your time too! Believe in yourself.

Any ideas on how we could improve Seed Run?

Will let you know!