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How to Secure a Luxury Hotel for Your Brand Photoshoot
Business Barbara Ayisi 01/04/2026 Business Barbara Ayisi 01/04/2026

How to Secure a Luxury Hotel for Your Brand Photoshoot

Barbara Ayisi cold-called The Langham, sent seven follow-up emails and landed her first ever brand shoot at one of London's most prestigious hotels. On persistence, preparation and how to approach a luxury venue with a proposal they cannot say no to.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Growing up in Clacton-on-Sea, I didn't see many examples of self-employed women. That was, until I met Dina. She lived across the road from me, and every morning, I'd watch her drive her Mini to the hair salon she owned. She was the first real-life female entrepreneur I'd ever known.

Seeing Dina planted a seed in my mind. Here was tangible proof that building a business wasn't just a distant dream; it was a real possibility. And if she could do it, maybe I could too.

But as I got older, I realised that Dina was the exception, not the rule. Today, eight out of ten young people in the UK can't name a single female entrepreneur. It's a stark reminder of how few visible role models we have. The women who are out there building businesses, chasing their dreams, and redefining success on their own terms are still largely unseen.

And that invisibility? It has a real impact. When we don't see examples of women doing something, it's hard to believe we can do it ourselves. It places a silent limit on our aspirations, a quiet ceiling on what we dare to dream.

That's what High Flying Design is here to change.

We know that building a business as a woman comes with unique challenges. We battle imposter syndrome, shoulder invisible labour, feel the constant pressure to have it all figured out, and face the fear of going it alone. But we also know that there's no singular "right" way to do it.

That's why we share honest interviews with real women in business who are figuring it out as they go. Women who are navigating the challenges, celebrating the wins, and learning the lessons, and generously sharing it all with us.

Alongside these inspiring founder stories, we provide practical business advice from those who've been there, mindset strategies to build resilience and overcome doubt, and valuable insights and tips to help you prioritise your wellbeing and create a life beyond the business.

— Shannon Kate Murray, Founder & Editor

High Flying Design is the online magazine for women building businesses. Real stories from women living it, and honest advice from those a few steps ahead. Written by founders, for founders.

Ranked #8 in FeedSpot's Top 50 Women's Magazines, 2025 & 2026.

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