Latest News
10th June 2019
Good Evening Samantha,
I met you at the Enterprise East group afternoon tea. I was there to support my uncle – AF
I thought you hosted a fantastic event and felt very privileged to be part of it. What your team has achieved and the time spent with the individuals – was very humbling and I am very proud of my uncle. Thank you for taking your time and efforts with our community.
It was fantastic to see him smartly dressed and the skills he learnt are life changing for him. It was a proud moment for him – and for us to watch. Thank you.
3rd June 2019
Hello Sam
Enterprise East
Thank you for taking the time to review my CV and cover letter.
The tips and pointers you gave with my CV and cover letter are really good. Also your positive approach helped me a lot.
Thanks again
22nd May 2019
Dear Sam,
I just wanted to write to thank you and your newly trained events team on the success of completing their Inclusion and Thrive programme.
I was very impressed at how beautifully laid out all of the tables were with the all of the tea sets and the wonderful sandwiches and cakes that were provided. It was a delight to be able to attend such a lovely afternoon tea. All of your team were professional and confident. Terry took my order and kindly served me a fantastic mocktail, which was delicious and I was like being in a very posh restaurant.
I enjoyed the opportunity of reading all of the skills that were displayed on your skills tree which was full of new learning and talent. I couldn’t believe that all of the flowers had been arranged by your team, they looked as if you had paid for a professional florist.
Wishing you all every success for the future and once again thank you for inviting me to be part of your achievements.
Kind regards,
20th May 2019
Dear Sam,
I just want to thank you and your whole team for inviting me to share in the achievements of everyone in Thrive Programme today at Rhodes Center. The service from start to finish was top class. Special thanks to Terry who greeted me and served our table. He was extremely attentive and professional. Those certificates were extremely well deserved!!
Many Thanks
26th March 2019
Bishops House is a multi-purpose Day Service for adults with learning disabilities, mental health issues, physical disabilities, dementia and age related conditions. The service provides friendly support and opportunities help people to have fulfilled lives and achieve their goals. Enterprise East contacted us towards the end of last years and following a meeting with Sam McReynolds we were able to understand the huge benefits of running the Inclusion & Thrive workshops with our service users at Bishops House. We therefore approached a number of our service users who we felt would be able to take part and the course started on 11th March. We have 5 of our service users attending along with an external attendee. Our service users absolutely love the sessions. They are talking about them throughout the week with both staff and their peers. Only this morning a service user came up to me to say how much he had enjoyed yesterday's session and asked what they would be doing next week. You can clearly see how much the sessions are building their confidence and self-esteem. The sessions take into account different learning styles and are giving the attendees the opportunity to improve existing skills, learn new skills and overcome fears & uncertainties. In turn they can see how they can contribute positively to the wider community, along with the potential for voluntary or paid work. We are all very much looking forward to the community event at the end of May where our service users will be able to show case their learning to local employees, their community & families. We will definitely be looking to run further courses in the future.
6th March 2019
I wanted to thank you and let you know that I really appreciate the effort and time you both have put in running the Takeley and Stansted Community Tea Parties. Those two events would not have happened without you. You both are truly inspiring and getting the most out of the skills Enterprise East have helped you develop.
I also wanted to let you know that a number of community members who attended the Tea Parties expressed their gratitude for your work and praised your courage and skills. Personally I could not believe how you have transformed both venues. Thanks to your excellent customer skills and creativity, you have created a truly magical, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at both events.
15th January 2019
Happy New Year to you and all your hardworking team. We used Enterprise East to put on a MadHatter Themed Tea Party at 2 different venues. Sam, the organiser had thought of everything and they came kitted out with fabulous decorations, activities to keep children occupied and all the necessary crockery, refreshments, etc. Her team worked tirelessly at both events, ensuring that everything was suitably prepared and cleared throughout both events with customers being warmly welcomed and served very efficiently. The team looked and acted very professionally always with smiles on their faces, making sure customer’s needs were attended to. We received very complimentary feedback from customers, many of whom took time to thank the team members and can only add our thanks to these.
17th December 2018
Dear Samantha,
I just wanted to thank you and your team of amazing young people who have recently supported us in the delivery and running of two Community Tea Parties. These Tea Parties were part of our South Uttlesford Community Builder Pilot, the aim of which was primarily to reduce loneliness and isolation and to increase the communities’ connectedness. Over the course of these two events we had over 100 local people attend and thoroughly enjoy themselves.
I would like to highlight how professional your young staff were and it was clear to me how well they had been trained to operate in such an environment, they were a credit to themselves and your organisation. I would not hesitate to use your team again, please could you kindly pass on our sincere thanks.
Kind regards
17th August 2018
Thank you for all your hard work in supporting our rehabilitation and vocational programmes, your professionalism and enthusiasm was reflected within the positive outcomes achieved.
19th August 2018
Sam and Karen are fantastic people to work with, they have a clear idea about what they want to achieve and work hard to make it a reality.
22nd August 2018
Thank you so much for all the encouragement & support you have given to our customers, one quote reflects many, “I really love my new job and couldn’t have done it without you
29th August 2018
We have no hesitation in recommending Enterprise East to any company seeking support and business development guidance. We found them to be a highly efficient, professional and enthusiastic organisation.
17th September 2018
We are delighted to have been working with Enterprise East for some time and cannot recommend them highly enough. Karen and Sam have the perfect balance of friendliness and professionalism which is a credit to their organisation. Both demonstrate an expertise in their work, which means that we can feel confident that our event will be delivered successfully. We would happily recommend Enterprise East to any of the organisations we work with.
11th October 2018
Myself and colleagues from the Chelmsford Education, Learning, Skills and Staffing Group attended the Enterprise East Celebration event on September 26th In Great Dunmow. It was an amazing experience where the learners could showcase their newly learnt skills and confidence in a hospitality and events environment. I really enjoyed the afternoon tea and celebrating the learners’ success. The Mocktails were developed by each individual learner and tasted fantastic! It was a very well organised event and I hope that this will lead to further employment opportunities for the learners in the future. It showed that perceived barriers to employment are just that- perceived! Thanks to Sam, Michelle and the rest of the event staff. Well done Enterprise East!
25th October 2018
Samantha’s support has been a godsend. Being out of work and job hunting is a lonely and isolating experience and Sam’s expertise, warmth, encouragement and confidence building has been invaluable. All of that along with practical help and guidance kept my spirits up and gave me optimism at a time when I needed it the most. I had good days and bad days but Sam was always there to listen and remind me of my goal and to keep me going. I am really grateful and cannot thank her enough and would recommend that anyone who finds themselves in the same position make use of everything that she and Enterprise East has to offer.
30th October 2018
Enterprise East did a superb job with the training for all candidates, which was evident not only by the trainees themselves but the comments their parents made. I spoke with almost every parent at the event and when asked if their child had enjoyed it every single one had responded with praise of the programme. It’s a testament to Enterprise East, and I know ECL would love to partner with you again should the opportunity arise. Our focus will always be on growth and providing as much opportunity as we can for our customers. Each customer who completed the programme with you now has an even better chance of paid employment and has grown in confidence and skills from the training provided to them by Enterprise East.
27th November 2018
Good morning Sam thanks for giving Carl the opportunity to work with you, he certainly came out of himself after a shaky start. He is sitting counting his wages and thinking of what to buy. Many Thanks
Testimonials
29th August 2023
I eat here several times a week as it is by far the best cafe/restaurant in the area. The food is incredible with very generous portions and a varied choice. The atmosphere is relaxed and extremely comfortable. Staff are warm and friendly and the students are a credit to the cafe and themselves. Having used the cafe for some time, I have had the privilege of watching the students develop and gain confidence. Would highly recommend Cafe Cornell. It's unique and a worth while place to eat at.
7th January 2022
Meet up Monday sessions at Café Cornell - This is fantastic my neighbour who is 94 lost her husband last year, I told her about this and she came on Monday, Thank-you so much it makes me feel so much better knowing she can have some company and meet some new people 🙌 💕💕 xx
31st December 2021
We've been working closely with Enterprise East since they started out as a great idea, and very much value our partnership with them. It's been a pleasure to support their Cafe Cornell Christmas Gift initiative, and contribute practical items to their parcels that will help Uttlesford residents keep warm this winter. Well done all!
25th December 2021
Thank you so much for our goodie bags you all looked brilliant in your costumes when you knocked on my door I was so very touched by your wonderfully kind presents it made my Christmas so much more special so thank you all.
31st August 2021
Hi, a friend and I had lunch at Cafe Cornell today, our first visit, it certainly won't be our last! I wanted to say thank you to all the staff for a delicious meal which was beautifully presented. We were impressed by the whole experience. Congratulations to everyone, you're doing an amazing job. We also liked the idea of Sandy's meal, what a great thing to do. We were happy to donate to such a good cause. Best wishes for the future,
28th July 2021
The people at Stanley Wilson Lodge were super excited to go on a small outing to Café Cornell in Saffron Walden!
Café Cornell is a community café, which operates as a work-based training academy for people who face challenges and barriers to gain employment. This made the outing all the more special, as the service that they received was second to none!
28th June 2021
Dear Sam and the team,
What can I say but a huge thank you for yesterday….The food was excellent and I am still getting emails complimenting you all on it, sausage rolls get a special mention for being so delicious.
It helped me enormously to have your generous support and fantastic organisation, which allowed me to just enjoy , and it was so very kind of you to go above and beyond , leaving us the urn and tea/coffee for the afternoon tea.
I have honestly had so many compliments on you and your team and I think a few people will be calling in the near future to discuss their own events.
It has been one of the joys of this time to work with you Sam and I know we will do more together.
Now on to business, please send me your invoice and bank details and I will transfer the money to you asap.
Thank you all again for being part of it all and working with such care, passion and skill,
Much love
10th April 2020
Thank you so much for the loveliest treat today Sam.
Our middle daughter has autism and I always prey there will be room in employment for individuals who think and operate differently to the norm.
Left feeling very emotional, but very hopeful and inspired.
What a triumph Tea Leaf is.
Thank you for taking action.
You are so brave.
I admire you for taking the leap and applaud you for succeeding.
Truly inspirational.
25th February 2020
Hi Sam,
I’ve been offered a job, at DST in Chelmsford. I would just like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to be able to volunteer, it’s really helped with my confidence. However, I don’t want to stop volunteering with you, so I was wondering if I could still come in on a Saturday when I’m free to help out.
20th February 2020
Hello All,
An act of kindness story 17.2.20 - The Tea Leaf - a Social Enterprise Cafe based in the Hub in Dunmow, had been donated (by Fair Share Scheme) a large amount bread which they were only able to use some of and had a considerable amount over - a big bin liner full - and asked me if I could help distribute it to a worthy cause.
The bread went to both the Dunmow and Thaxted Day centres to make bread pudding and also the attendees of the the Dunmow Dementia cafe. A lovely story that started as one act of kindness - The Fair Share Scheme, followed by another, The Tea Leaf, and enjoyed by many......
19th December 2019
Hi Sam, Just to reiterate our huge thanks for making our Christmas Team lunch so special yesterday! 😊
The whole experience was fantastic from start to finish, the food was amazing, and the service we received was outstanding.
You are doing an amazing job Sam providing so many people with a chance to achieve so much in their lives. I have already been spreading the word and will certainly be popping by for a coffee, or lunch when I am in the area.
18th December 2019
Hi Samantha, greatful thanks to all your team who worked extremely hard in making the Young People with Disabilities team Christmas lunch so special.
The food was delicious and the service outstanding. Well done all of you. X
12th December 2019
As the CEO of an infrastructure Charity CVS in Uttlesford, Essex I have had the pleasure of working with this organisations CEO Sam McReynolds and her team as a whole. Our first experience of working with EE related to a Summer Ball we were holding, for which EE agreed to provide the staff for the event and to run other aspects of it, as well as organising the venue, catering, bar and other logistics. As part of this process and with the support of a Big Lottery Awards for All grant that supported the training of the staff in preparation for the event EE were fundamental to the event. The Ball took place in June 2019 and was an outstanding success, and I must say that one of the primary reasons for this was the involvement of EE and the young people and adults who are the furthest from employment they support, train and enable to overcome their life challenges. We received considerable positive feedback about the contribution and involvement of the EE team in this event, by those who attended. It has become very evident to us that the founder and lead for the organisation possesses the passion and determination to make something very special happen through the delivery model she has developed; the care she applies to make a significant difference in these people’s lives. I have witness the change that has occurred within the people who are too often marginalised, due to the unique support and program EE offers them. Their confidence, self-esteem and self-belief are increased, along with the acquiring of new skills. The icing on the cake is the fact EE can then offer them a job, in which in some cases is the first one they have ever had. This organisation has brought so much to a section of our community that was and is so much needed, they are caring and extremely professional, they are empowering people to achieve. In a very short time they have developed a concept and approach that is having a significant impact upon people’s lives who have enough challenges already, but through this inspirational organisation it is making a real difference.
10th December 2019
ECVYS are based in Uttlesford community hub alongside Enterprise East and we have witnessed first-hand the incredible work that Sam has been doing with her young people. One of the young people was very shy and unsure of themselves when they first started and you could tell that they were used to their disability holding them back. Now they are bubbling with confidence and so excited to be learning catering skills and the prospect of future employment is something they may never have thought possible without the investment into their lives from Enterprise East. It’s a privilege to watch Sam develop and train her young people as she is a natural and expertly brings out the potential of each of the young people who come through her doors. I highly recommend Enterprise East and am proud to see all that Sam is achieving.
15th November 2019
My daughter had a magical party at the Tea Leaf tea room. The theme of Alice in Wonderland was simply magical and the effort and execution provided by the team was fantastic - from the tree with the tea cups on to “Alice” greeting them by the entrance.
After being greeted by Alice the children went and sat on beautifully dressed table complete with themed props. The children had their tea and I was impressed by the variety of the food as well as the quality -the children thoroughly enjoyed their tea. After tea the children went on to do some singing whilst the table was set up for an activity. The activity was thoroughly enjoyable for all the children (and adults) who got to make sweetie bouquets. Sam made this great fun and it was also a great alternative to a party bag. The children then went on to play party games before we sang Happy Birthday where the party was the wrapped up.
The energy and enthusiasm from the team meant that all the children had a fabulous time and left saying it was the best party ever. Sam made Teghan feel that she had had a very special evening
25th August 2019
Essex Chelmsford Rehabilitation Centre manages individuals convicted of crimes such as shoplifting, burglary, harassment, motoring offences and domestic abuse, who are assessed as low or medium risk of harm. We work with people serving their sentence in prison and in the community. Our purpose is to reduce reoffending and risk of harm, and to improve the quality of life of those under our supervision and care.
We have recently been lucky enough to work with Enterprise East and have had the opportunity to support our service users through their fantastic programme aimed at supporting long term unemployed individuals back into work. We were initially looking to facilitate the group for 8 group however attrition rates were high.
This resulted in the course running with 3 group members, this was not ideal and we did consider holding the course start date to find a larger group. However Enterprise East were dedicated and decided to continue with the course to ensure that those motivated members were given the opportunity to continue in their training and improve their chances of finding future employment. They felt it would be unfair on those motivated people to have to wait.
During the start of the course all group members were showing some signs of anxiety. Enterprise East staff spent time gaining the trust of the group, working with each member to support them through their hesitations and issues, this proved invaluable and enabled the members to return each week ready to tackle the task at hand. Although the individuals considered themselves work ready at the start of the course, it became clear that the group faced real barriers and lacked in confidence.
Although the three who completed had the capability to work, their unease about re-entering the workforce continued to be a theme in the early sessions. Enterprise East used appropriate exercises to get group members on side, gaining their trust and providing practical solutions and support to allow them to feel confident in their abilities.
It is a Testament to the Enterprise East ethos that of the three members who completed the course there have been positive outcomes. One has gained Full time employment in the private sector and at the time of writing anther is being interviewed for a post as a mentor . Both have mentioned that they would not have had the confidence to do this prior to this opportunity. This is evidence that with the right help, support and a little reassurance those with criminal convictions can be supported to obtain future employment. Enterprise East has been fundamental to supporting these individuals to reach their potential.
15th July 2019
Dear Sam,
I just wanted to let you know what an excellent job you and your team did in supporting the recent Celebration Charity Ball at Saffron Walden Town Hall. I thought the team were enthusiastic, professional and delivered great service with a smile. They clearly played a large part in making the evening a great success. Well done to you all!
6th July 2019
I would just like to send in my honest review of Enterprise East . I finished a course with these guys today and I have to say I was genuinely upset to leave . Samantha took her time getting to know us personally and supported us with everything from the course itself to just being there to listen if we had a bad day . Everyone actually wanted to see you thrive and it was a really relaxed positive environment to be in . I felt really nervous on my first day but I was made to feel at ease and looked forward to each session . I tried new things that I never would of had the opportunity to do and I gained a qualification giving me something to be proud of . Enterprise East really do just want to help people . Thank you for all the time , effort and funding you all put in . I would recommend the courses 100% .
