PR firm that has gone to the dogs

Sep 21 2009 by Karen Dent, The Journal

AN entrepreneur aiming to work with small businesses has taken inspiration from her two Border terriers.

Charlotte Nichols named her marketing and public relations agency Harvey & Hugo after her dogs and says the enterprise has even been based on the terriers’ different personalities.

The 25-year-old, from Darlington, came up with the idea for an enterprise providing one-off PR help for small and start-up firms while working for an agency in Newcastle.

She said: “Harvey is the sensible dog and represents the larger companies who need regular ongoing PR campaigns, whereas Hugo’s happy-go- lucky character inspired Pay-as-Hugo PR.

“This is a new concept I’ve created to make publicity more reachable for small and start-up businesses who can’t afford to be tied into an expensive contract.”

Ms Nichols is currently working from home but says she plans to grow the business enough over the next 12 months to open an office and take on two staff.

She said: “I’ve always had a burning desire to start my own company and it feels amazing that I am now putting my plans into action. Its hard work, but I’m really enjoying the challenge.”