Today, as my fiancée was working from home and Eric had a dog sitter, I decided to venture out into the world like a proper professional.
Ely Work Collective, a new collaborative co-working space in Ely, was holding a free co-working taster day, so I thought I’d give it a try. It made a nice change from working at home, and because I have to drive past the gym on the way back, I optimistically packed my gym kit too. Mainly so I could attempt to offset the large custard pastry I’d just eaten.
Ely Work Collective offers flexible hot desks, stylish meeting rooms and a professional content studio, aimed at remote workers, small businesses and freelancers in Cambridgeshire. It also happens to be something of a holding pen for my ideal clients and potential Business Brew members, which is obviously no bad thing.
Catherine and James, who run it, were both very friendly, and I really like what they’ve created. The main space has eight desks, with a relaxed atmosphere where people can chat, work, share ideas, or just get their heads down. There are also several smaller meeting rooms, a boardroom and a studio that can be used for recording podcasts or creating content.
There was a spectacular collection of pastries and fruit, along with a proper coffee machine using beans from local roasters. Always a good sign.
One detail I particularly liked was the plants. I’m not sure how many meals involving tinned tomatoes were eaten in the months before opening, but all the plants seem to be potted in 2.5kg tins of authentic Italian tomatoes. A lovely touch.
I was also given a branded notebook, pen and sticker when I arrived, which was a nice surprise and made the whole thing feel properly thought through.
I’ll definitely be going back. I can see myself working from there for a couple of half-days a month, especially when I need a change of scenery or want to be around other people rather than muttering to myself at home.
I’d highly recommend giving it a try.
You can find out more here: https://www.elyworkcollective.co.uk/
