Finalist Lord Lieutenants Entrepreneur challenge

My Honest Day at the Hertfordshire County Show

Last weekend, I took part in the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire’s Entrepreneurs Challenge at the Hertfordshire County Show—and got to the final eight!

I was there representing my business, Creative Scavenger, a children’s outdoor activity kit designed to get kids off screens and exploring nature. I’ve built the whole thing myself—designing, packing, selling, and everything in between—so to be selected alongside some brilliant local businesses felt amazing.

A Bit About the Lord Lieutenants Entrepreneur challenge (and the County Show)

The Hertfordshire County Show has been running for over 135 years and is one of the biggest events in the local calendar, celebrating farming, food, crafts, and small businesses from across the region. It brings together thousands of visitors over two days and has a real sense of community.

The Lord Lieutenant’s Entrepreneurs Challenge is part of this celebration, designed to shine a spotlight on small businesses doing exciting things in the county. The finalists get a chance to pitch on stage and take part in a live judging session.

Getting Ready

The run-up to the show was hectic. I was still prepping stock for my stall, managing childcare, trying to figure out what I was going to say on stage—while running on very little sleep. I didn’t have fancy branding or a slick pitch. Just my product, my story, and a load of nerves.

Bespoke County Show Scavenger Hunt

I created a bespoke scavenger hunt just for the County Show packed with things children could spot around the showground—tractors, sheep, helicopter, and even people eating ice cream. There was sweets and little bugs as prizes for those who found all the items. It was lovely seeing families walk around with their hunt cards, ticking things off and getting involved.

The Pitch (and the Bit That Went Pear-Shaped)

On the day, I did a 3 minute presentation with a supporting powerpoint. I spoke about the importance of outdoor play and how the kits work. The tough bit was the interview. With four judges and an audience watching I was interviewed by Stuart Story.

It felt like Dragon’s Den. I was nervous, flustered, and completely froze. My mind just went blank. I couldn’t explain things clearly, couldn't remember anything about my finances and came out knowing I’d messed it up. I was cringing for days but lesson learnt, next time I do better.

What I Took from the Lord Lieutenants Entrepreneur challenge

Despite the wobble, I’m so glad I went. The highlight wasn’t the stage or the pitch—it was meeting the other finalists. Everyone was lovely. We were all in the same boat, just trying to make our ideas work. The support and conversations between us were the best bit of the day.

It was also a reminder that even if you don’t feel ready or polished, showing up still matters. Being chosen as one of the final eight meant something. It told me I’m doing something right, even if I don’t always feel like it.

Would I do it again? I'm not sure. There were mistakes made by the organisers which meant people were angry and upset. A lot could be improved on and I hope next year there are more women involved in the judging.

The Reality of Running a Business Alone

Running a business as a single parent is hard. It’s just me—no team, no backup, and often no money to fall back on. Some days I feel like I’m winging it. Others I feel proud of how far I’ve come. Getting recognition at the County Show gave me a bit of a boost at a time I really needed it.

Events like this highlight how many women and solo founders are doing brilliant things with very little support. We don’t always shout the loudest, but we’re out here making it work.

What’s Next for Creative Scavenger

This experience has lit a bit of a fire under me. I want to keep building Creative Scavenger, with new kits for different seasons, downloadable scavenger hunts, and maybe even bundles for schools and nurseries. I’d love to improve my branding and finally get some proper videos made of kids using the kits.

I’ve been doing this quietly for a while—selling on my website, on Amazon, at markets and fairs—but I’m ready to push it further.

A Nudge for Anyone Thinking About Applying

If you're thinking of entering something like this, do it—even if you don’t feel ready. I very nearly talked myself out of applying. But stepping out of your comfort zone is how you grow, even if it goes a bit wrong along the way.

Huge thanks to the organisers, and a massive shout out to the other businesses who made it such a supportive space. I left feeling tired, a bit deflated from the interview—but also proud, and more determined than ever.

If you spot me at a local market or event, come say hello. And if you’ve got kids aged 4–8, check out Creative Scavenger—we make outdoor play easy, fun, and full of imagination. Because every child deserves to wander, gather, create, and discover.