Hay Festival 2013

It's been Hay Festival time again.

 Over the past two weeks writers, actors, musicians, comedians, film-makers and thinkers have all swooped on the small Welsh town of Hay-on-Wye to chat and debate an array of diverse subjects.

 

For years I've wanted to go and see for myself what all the fuss is about. This year I made it.

 

Last Friday I went along clutching my ticket to see Cath Kidston talk about her new book, Coming Up Roses. It's a book celebrating 20 years of Cath Kidston Ltd and tells the story of the highs and lows of growing her global brand.

 

In the line to enter there were women of all ages trying to 'out do' each other with the latest Cath Kidston handbags etc. Now, I have to admit at this point I'm not a massive fan of her products but I wanted to hear a little about how she has grown her business to where it is today.

She came across as a lovely lady who seemed to have no problem taking a light hearted look at herself and her business and answered questions from the audience with honesty and frankness which I really liked.

 

Cath Kidston...(sorry about the picture quality)

 

 

Yesterday I popped over to Hay again and this time I was booked to see Jules Hudson of Escape to the Country fame. I have a little crush on Mr Hudson so when I spotted his name on the Hay Festival website I didn't hesitate in booking my ticket.

 

I was the first person to start queueing for his talk on renovating old buildings. As I stood there talking to the lovely Hay steward manning the door the man himself strolled up and asked if he could take a sneak peek at the venue. Perfect timing! I took my chance and asked if I could have a picture with him and thankfully he said yes :) 

Jules' talk was very witty and interesting. He showed us photographs of his old house that he had renovated and has now sold and some pictures of the house he and his partner are renovating at the moment.

 

 

 I've  had a lovely time at the Hay Festival and I would recommend it to you all, there's something for everyone no matter what age you are. I'll definitely be returning next year but I'll book myself onto more events.