South West-based tech company Black Nova Designs is celebrating a decade in business, and marking the milestone by sharing ten hard-earned lessons from founders Kyle and Danielle Holmes.
Launched in 2015 from their home in Wiltshire, the husband-and-wife team have grown the company into a trusted provider of IT support, web design and hosting services, now working with more than 1,000 clients across the UK.
On Saturday October 18, Black Nova will host a 10th Birthday Bash at the National Self Build and Renovation Centre (NSBRC) in Swindon to celebrate their 10th business anniversary. The event will raise money for local mental health charity Best Mates and bring together clients, partners and supporters for a night of networking, celebration and purpose.
“Only around 30% of small businesses reach the ten-year mark,” said managing director Kyle Holmes. “It hasn’t always been easy, but we’ve learned more than we ever expected, and we hope these insights help others on their business journey too.”
10 Lessons from 10 Years in Business:
1. Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility.
“It’s often overlooked until it’s too late,” says Kyle. “Whether it’s ransomware or hacked social accounts, you must have strong systems and backup plans, no matter the size of your business.”
2. Don’t fear being ‘too expensive’.
Not everyone will value what you offer, and that’s okay. “If someone says you’re too expensive, they’re not your ideal client,” Kyle adds. “You’re the right price for the right people.”
3. Stay curious. IT never stands still.
Technology is always evolving. Danielle shares, “The learning never ends – and yes, it often costs more than you’d like! But staying up to date is essential in this industry.”
4. Cashflow is king.
“Even if you’re not a finance expert, check your bank regularly and track what’s going in and out,” Danielle advises. “Tougher months will come, but knowing your numbers gives you stability.”
5. Self-acceptance is part of the process.
“As a business owner, mindset matters more than you realise,” Kyle says. “Personal growth goes hand-in-hand with business growth.”
6. There’s no ‘perfect’ routine.
“Especially as a working parent, each day looks different,” says Danielle. “Give yourself grace. Do what you can, and take one day at a time.”
7. Being different is a strength.
“Trust the process, but don’t be afraid to do things your own way,” says Kyle. “Some of our best decisions came from going against the grain.”
8. Community is everything.
Danielle reflects, “Running a business can be lonely. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people through networking or peer support makes a huge difference, emotionally and professionally.”
9. Comparison is the thief of joy.
“It’s easy to look at others and feel behind,” Danielle admits. “But success isn’t one-size-fits-all. Focus on your path. You’re doing just fine.”
10. Old tech slows you down – upgrade with purpose.
“‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ doesn’t apply in IT,” Kyle explains. “Old machines waste energy, slow productivity and compromise security. Investing in modern tools pays off in the long run.”
The 10th Birthday Bash is more than a party – it’s a way to give back. All proceeds will support Best Mates, a Swindon-based charity providing practical help and someone to talk to for people experiencing mental health challenges.
“This event is our way of saying thank you to our clients, team and community,” says Danielle. “We’re proud to support Best Mates and celebrate how far we’ve come.”
Tickets for the 10th birthday bash are £75 each or for £90 a ticket, businesses can display a banner around the room. To book visit https://events.blacknovadesigns.co.uk/
Article from Scott Media
