Testimonials

Testimonials

I've worked with many people from different backgrounds, professions and careers. Read some of their feedback.


Shonagh Reid -  Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant
Shonagh Reid - Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant

I’ve worked with Val for three years. She has helped me to transition my career from the public sector to creating my own business where I am thriving on a personal level, and financially. Val manages to combine complete non-judgemental support with the challenging questions to move you on to the next level.

Laura Baker - Videographer
Laura Baker - Videographer

I had been a member of Val's Facebook group Above and Beyond the Kitchen Table for a while before I decided to invest in a tailored coaching session with Val, and I couldn't have been happier with the service provided, which was a considered and collaborative experience overall. Val is extremely approachable and knowledgable, and this approach allowed me to take a moment (which is difficult when you're a sole trader running a growing business!), and really think about where I am going, my vision, and how I am going to get there.

Laura Baker - Videographer
Laura Baker - Videographer

I had been a member of Val's Facebook group Above and Beyond the Kitchen Table for a while before I decided to invest in a tailored coaching session with Val, and I couldn't have been happier with the service provided, which was a considered and collaborative experience overall. Val is extremely approachable and knowledgable, and this approach allowed me to take a moment (which is difficult when you're a sole trader running a growing business!), and really think about where I am going, my vision, and how I am going to get there.

Since we spoke earlier this year I have made several changes to my online presence and am connecting with more like minded, eco conscious couples and clients, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Val to anyone in a similar position to myself. Thanks for all your help Val!

David Steele - Florist
David Steele - Florist

The benefit for me personally was you helping me focus on what I wanted to do going forward in our business. Giving me the mindset of we can do this, we have the knowledge. Working with you gave us more of a steer on how to achieve what we wanted to do. Nadia has the drive and is fantastic at doing everything creative me not so much. Working with you meant that Nadia was able to help me focus because you helped her to focus.

David Steele - Florist
David Steele - Florist

The benefit for me personally was you helping me focus on what I wanted to do going forward in our business. Giving me the mindset of we can do this, we have the knowledge. Working with you gave us more of a steer on how to achieve what we wanted to do. Nadia has the drive and is fantastic at doing everything creative me not so much. Working with you meant that Nadia was able to help me focus because you helped her to focus.

When we first met with you we were talking about an internet gifting floristry business, now we have a shop and it’s going from strength to strength! Our experience with you was and is great. Without your experience in business and passing on your knowledge, I don’t think we would have achieved what we have achieved as a small family business.

Sophie Cullumbine - Florist
Sophie Cullumbine - Florist

Val the benefits of working with you have been long lived with me. So much so that I still implement time blocking that you introduced me to, prioritising my work and making sure I set time aside to actually plan (which I would never have done before). This is definitely something that steers me through and helps me focus when I have big jobs on. I certainly don't feel the same levels of overwhelm that I used to struggle with prior to your wonderful guidance.

Sophie Cullumbine - Florist
Sophie Cullumbine - Florist

Val the benefits of working with you have been long lived with me. So much so that I still implement time blocking that you introduced me to, prioritising my work and making sure I set time aside to actually plan (which I would never have done before). This is definitely something that steers me through and helps me focus when I have big jobs on. I certainly don't feel the same levels of overwhelm that I used to struggle with prior to your wonderful guidance.

The results of working with you - I am more organised, more focused and I definitely have a better work life balance.

Natalie O'Dowd - Cake Designer
Natalie O'Dowd - Cake Designer

So I've just had my 1st (I say 1st as I already have another planned) 'Get it Done Today' session with Val. I knew what I needed to achieve and kinda knew how to do it - However, I did not have the motivation to do it on my own. I am excited by the changes implemented in my business (simple but oh so necessary) during our session. I am actually looking forward to putting into practice my new routine.

Natalie O'Dowd - Cake Designer
Natalie O'Dowd - Cake Designer

So I've just had my 1st (I say 1st as I already have another planned) 'Get it Done Today' session with Val. I knew what I needed to achieve and kinda knew how to do it - However, I did not have the motivation to do it on my own. I am excited by the changes implemented in my business (simple but oh so necessary) during our session. I am actually looking forward to putting into practice my new routine.

During the session, I felt so welcome, comfortable and at ease. Allowing me to be completely honest with not just Val but myself about what was needed and what was achievable. For ME and for MY business and MY family life. I've spent some money on lots of 'things' for my business over the years and this was definitely a worthwhile investment. Thanks Val. Looking forward to our next one!

Katherine Howe - Virtual Assistant
Katherine Howe - Virtual Assistant

After attending Val’s ‘Little Brands, Big Business’ event I can honestly say I’ve never felt more sure of where my business is going from here. In the time I’ve known Val I’ve learnt one major thing, and that’s that she always goes above and beyond expectation and genuinely cares about her clients! Every talk that was delivered was so well thought out and taught me things I didn’t know before, and the whole day was full of great atmosphere, people and content.

Katherine Howe - Virtual Assistant
Katherine Howe - Virtual Assistant

After attending Val’s ‘Little Brands, Big Business’ event I can honestly say I’ve never felt more sure of where my business is going from here. In the time I’ve known Val I’ve learnt one major thing, and that’s that she always goes above and beyond expectation and genuinely cares about her clients! Every talk that was delivered was so well thought out and taught me things I didn’t know before, and the whole day was full of great atmosphere, people and content.

A huge thank you to Val and all the speakers; I came away feeling like I was part of a community that really wants everybody within it to succeed, and another bunch of wonderful, inspirational people in my life. Thank you a hundred times!” 

Tara Winter - Photographer
Tara Winter - Photographer

"I have had the best time ever as part of a Boost and Collaborate group over the last six months. It has been enjoyable to work through challenges and ideas with a very inspiring set of people, led by Val. As a person, she is kind, warm and engaging which positively complements her coaching and support. Val takes note of all the important elements of you and your life, ensuring to remind you of why you are doing something and how it fits within what and where you want to go. She makes sure you take care of the whole you, all the while helping you to work your way around, up, over and through barriers.

Tara Winter - Photographer
Tara Winter - Photographer

"I have had the best time ever as part of a Boost and Collaborate group over the last six months. It has been enjoyable to work through challenges and ideas with a very inspiring set of people, led by Val. As a person, she is kind, warm and engaging which positively complements her coaching and support. Val takes note of all the important elements of you and your life, ensuring to remind you of why you are doing something and how it fits within what and where you want to go. She makes sure you take care of the whole you, all the while helping you to work your way around, up, over and through barriers.

Being part of a group has been perfect for me at this stage. Our three are incredibly supportive of each other (not having known each other before) and we all lift each others' spirits and cheer each other on. I feel that we have been taught strategies to help us face difficult times and situations that we can take forward into all aspects of our business and lives.

I've mentioned in a previous review for Half Day Coaching with Val, that it can be scary investing in yourself. I was worried that I wouldn't notice a tangible difference but I absolutely do. I have now achieved goals on my 'dream list' that had sat there for years. With Val and my lovely team by my side, I know I can achieve so much more - because I want to, because I can and not because I feel I should.

Thank you Val! x

Megan Wilson - Photographer
Megan Wilson - Photographer

I had a Power Hour with Val recently and it was so helpful! Val is really knowledgeable and sensible so she helped guide me through a challenging situation, gave me the confidence for the next steps as well as put me in touch with the right person to assist me with the situation. It's really helpful to be able to talk with someone who will be really transparent, honest and no-nonsense. Sometimes you just need a sounding board to talk things out and get some honest feedback which is exactly what Val did! Val, you're a real blessing - thank you for not only being so helpful but also for being kind and caring too. I'm sure I'll make use of another Power Hour again in the future!

Louise Hughes - Venue Stylist
Louise Hughes - Venue Stylist

"Embarking on my business coaching sessions with the inspirational Val Mattinson has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. With her encouragement, guidance and knowledge she has given me the tools and confidence to steer my business in the right direction and totally transform my image. From time management to finding my ideal client she has been amazing since day 1. Her friendly, caring and approachable manner has made every coaching session a joy and I left every one motivated and determined to succeed. Thank you so much Val. A huge 5 star recommendation from me!"

Heather Stanford -  Contract and Business Lawyer
Heather Stanford - Contract and Business Lawyer

When I signed into Val’s new social media group for entrepreneurs…. I did so with a little bit of trepidation, not sure whether it was right for me and whether I was right for it. My connection was Val – someone I’ve known professionally for over 25 years. But did I really appreciate what she now does in her coaching business and all the other fantastic networks that she also contributes to. To be fair, the answer to that is a big fat no. I had no clue. And a feel a little bad about that – as another lawyer who has tried to reinvent herself – I really should have paid some more attention – cos she’s really good!

Heather Stanford -  Contract and Business Lawyer
Heather Stanford - Contract and Business Lawyer

When I signed into Val’s new social media group for entrepreneurs…. I did so with a little bit of trepidation, not sure whether it was right for me and whether I was right for it. My connection was Val – someone I’ve known professionally for over 25 years. But did I really appreciate what she now does in her coaching business and all the other fantastic networks that she also contributes to. To be fair, the answer to that is a big fat no. I had no clue. And a feel a little bad about that – as another lawyer who has tried to reinvent herself – I really should have paid some more attention – cos she’s really good!

I’ve just completed my two complimentary sessions of coaching with Val, the prize for winning (with massive over excitement on my part) a challenge on the group’s Facebook page to stream LIVE what goals I wanted help to achieve. They have been so helpful in clarifying and setting me to action on things that had been twirling and whirling around in my head for a while. Chatting to Val about the goals I had set, what the challenges to achieving them were, and some very practical steps to take to get there, was hugely useful – a proper kick up the proverbial - to actually apply one’s mind and do things – to a plan and to a deadline – with someone to whom you have to be accountable for your actions or inactions.

Generally I’m not one for prevarication. Once I can see what needs to be done I tend to crack on (undoubtedly a woman who GSD) but my problem was in seeing the strategic wood for the trees. We looked at my business and its offering - What to do? How to do it? Who to do it with? Those were the challenges – once Val helped me see the tasks and the objectives - the rest was pretty easy.
If you are thinking about a project or a goal for your business and maybe it needs more shape, more structure, more thinking and certainly more doing, I recommend a session or two with Val. Her clarity and practical application are second to none. Her knowledge of the industries she has been part of – corporate worlds, the third sector and entrepreneur circles - is hugely rich and she is a generous sharer.
I thoroughly recommend her services for coaching small businesses and entrepreneurs and hope you all have as much successful output and activity as I did. Thank you Val – this isn’t the end, just the beginning…

Claire Tomlinson - Domestic & Retail Interior Designer
Claire Tomlinson - Domestic & Retail Interior Designer

I joined Val’s Boost and Collaborate group in 2019 and enjoyed the sessions so much that I joined for another three. Val approaches everything, from business to life issues, in a practical yet nurturing way. She is so busy but amazes me at the time she takes to check in and follow up on subjects we’ve discussed. She’s like my own personal cheerleader! The boost and collaborate group has not only created a collaborative group but one that holds each other accountable. I’m looking forward to keeping in touch with everyone even once we have finished. I would highly recommend Val’s coaching to anyone who is feeling a little lost and lonely in their business!

Alison Fleming - Celebrant
Alison Fleming - Celebrant

I just wanted to share with you all, my personal experience of Val’s coaching. When I signed up I didn't really know what I wanted – or expected, I had never had private coaching before . I knew I was running around like a headless chicken trying to be all things to all...... The very first conversation I had with Val was all about creating more quality time... for me and my family... not 25hours a day on the business only..... such simple things were talked about and put into place.... I used to come away thinking “why on earth couldn't I think of that?”

Alison Fleming - Celebrant
Alison Fleming - Celebrant

I just wanted to share with you all, my personal experience of Val’s coaching. When I signed up I didn't really know what I wanted – or expected, I had never had private coaching before . I knew I was running around like a headless chicken trying to be all things to all...... The very first conversation I had with Val was all about creating more quality time... for me and my family... not 25hours a day on the business only..... such simple things were talked about and put into place.... I used to come away thinking “why on earth couldn't I think of that?”

Val was so easy to talk to, and I felt at ease straight away and could talk about anything without feeling stupid ... I have faced a lot of different problems and hampered by health issues and Val was always flexible in changing times, understanding and helpful... her experience in all fields - her corporate background and of course her industry experience is outstanding. I could notice the difference in the way I dealt with problems so soon after only a couple of sessions.

If you are as passionate about your business as I am, keen to move it in the right direction but really don't know how to - book with Val you wont regret it one bit. Even if you try for a power hour session first......you'll be hooked!!

Val should really be prescribed to be taken on a regular basis. A very lovely friend. Thanks Val!”

Lorena Moloney - Baker
Lorena Moloney - Baker

I first came into contact with Val when I was introduced at a networking event and it was obvious that Val was not only incredibly vibrant and enthusiastic, she has an encouraging nature and genuinely wants to help people succeed. It was a no brainer, that Val was the right person to help me grow my business and even more importantly build my business around the life I want to lead. I started with a day workshop and a few one-to-one power hour sessions, which were invaluable in helping me steer things in the right direction, and then I joined one of Val’s mastermind groups with other small like minded businesses and it has taken my business to new places I never thought possible.

Lorena Moloney - Baker
Lorena Moloney - Baker

I first came into contact with Val when I was introduced at a networking event and it was obvious that Val was not only incredibly vibrant and enthusiastic, she has an encouraging nature and genuinely wants to help people succeed. It was a no brainer, that Val was the right person to help me grow my business and even more importantly build my business around the life I want to lead. I started with a day workshop and a few one-to-one power hour sessions, which were invaluable in helping me steer things in the right direction, and then I joined one of Val’s mastermind groups with other small like minded businesses and it has taken my business to new places I never thought possible.

Val’s mentoring has given me the confidence and tools to pursue different avenues to grow the business, the contacts that have helped me get there and continual motivation, encouragement and guidance that is needed when you work alone. I cannot recommend Val and her coaching services enough, she has become not only a colleague but a life long friend. Thank you Val, you are a diamond!!

Nadia Di Tullio Steele - Florist
Nadia Di Tullio Steele - Florist

When I decided to approach Val, my husband and I were in the ideas stage of a new business, we needed a practical steer on how to make the idea a reality. I’m really pleased to say the ‘idea’ is now a fully functioning business and we are seeing it grow on a monthly basis. It’s fair to say we wouldn’t have gotten to this point without Val’s support, knowledge and helpful strategies. While I still have a little further to travel on my journey to ‘the practical side’ I’m thrilled to say Val will be with me every step of the way, guiding me and my husband through the pitfalls and peaks of owning your own business and being self employed.

Nadia Di Tullio Steele - Florist
Nadia Di Tullio Steele - Florist

When I decided to approach Val, my husband and I were in the ideas stage of a new business, we needed a practical steer on how to make the idea a reality. I’m really pleased to say the ‘idea’ is now a fully functioning business and we are seeing it grow on a monthly basis. It’s fair to say we wouldn’t have gotten to this point without Val’s support, knowledge and helpful strategies. While I still have a little further to travel on my journey to ‘the practical side’ I’m thrilled to say Val will be with me every step of the way, guiding me and my husband through the pitfalls and peaks of owning your own business and being self employed.

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Val to anyone who needs this mentoring. She has insights and methods I’ve witnessed others use but didn’t feel were for me, but her kind and friendly approach has made these processes palatable and ‘do-able’.

Jaswinder Biant - Celebrant
Jaswinder Biant - Celebrant

“Just wanted to give a huge shout out to the awesome Val! On Tuesday Val did a live video asking what people are struggling with and following my DM she gave me a call and spent time talking to me and offering her insights on my business strategy. Like many others, I too got bogged down with the doing, doing, doing rather than being more strategic. The suggestions Val made were 100% spot on and she helped me get on the right back on track again and to top it all she made some brilliant introductions to other suppliers.

Jaswinder Biant - Celebrant
Jaswinder Biant - Celebrant

“Just wanted to give a huge shout out to the awesome Val! On Tuesday Val did a live video asking what people are struggling with and following my DM she gave me a call and spent time talking to me and offering her insights on my business strategy. Like many others, I too got bogged down with the doing, doing, doing rather than being more strategic. The suggestions Val made were 100% spot on and she helped me get on the right back on track again and to top it all she made some brilliant introductions to other suppliers.

I was overwhelmed by the support that Val offered and she really goes the extra mile unconditionally and that's the key. Unconditional support is a rare commodity and Val gives it in abundance. Her knowledge and insight into the industry is amazing and I know if I ever need another boost, a power hour will be the most useful and totally personalised 60 minutes of business support to navigate my journey in the wedding industry.

Really can't thank you enough Val you are a true inspiration!!!"

Monique Fryer – Yoga Instructor
Monique Fryer – Yoga Instructor

Working with Val has been extremely helpful and kept me motivated. She really listened to my concerns was empathetic and very skilfull in helping me find achievable solutions. I particularly love that Val is very supportive, encouraging and although most entrepreneurs struggle with similar issues she does not treat you with a 'one size fits all' answer. Plus, Val has a knack of making business coaching invigorating and exciting! I will definitely be back for a top up.

Karen Mellers - Wellbeing Consultant
Karen Mellers - Wellbeing Consultant

Thanks Val for yesterday and everything! Your help and guidance in my business continues to be invaluable. I used to live to work and now I work to live! Surprisingly as soon as I created space for self care it was like magic - more business than I had ever hoped for - work life balance is back and so is my health. Looking forward to what’s coming next.

Rob Lambeth - DJ
Rob Lambeth - DJ

I decided to take Val's coaching program as my business is still quite new and I felt that I had entered a room with so many doors to choose from but didn't know what door to open. I found that with Val's coaching programme the doors and many paths available to me quickly started to have number on them telling me what order to use them in. She listened to my problems worries and anxieties and was able to put things into perspective for me.

Rob Lambeth - DJ
Rob Lambeth - DJ

I decided to take Val's coaching program as my business is still quite new and I felt that I had entered a room with so many doors to choose from but didn't know what door to open. I found that with Val's coaching programme the doors and many paths available to me quickly started to have number on them telling me what order to use them in. She listened to my problems worries and anxieties and was able to put things into perspective for me.

Coaching with Val gives you a clearer understanding of what direction you need to take your business in. With Val's help, I have been able to secure more work and my confidence level has improved dramatically. I am now more confident when it comes to talking about money and my fees.

Overall I found the coaching has helped me be more successful and has proven to myself that I can do it.