On 6th May 2006, I opened the doors to 12 Degrees.

At the time, there wasn't a grand plan for what it would become. I simply knew I loved events, the pace, the people, and that moment when everything comes together exactly as it should. More than anything, I believed that if you worked hard, paid attention to the detail, and treated people properly, you could build something that lasted.

Twenty years later, we're still here. And that still feels quite special.

The industry then vs now

When I think back to 2006, it feels like a very different world. Smartphones weren't part of daily life, social media didn't shape event strategy, and hybrid events simply didn't exist. Sustainability, while always important, wasn't yet a central part of industry conversations.

In some ways, events were simpler, but they were also harder. We relied far more on experience, instinct, and strong relationships. There was less room for instant fixes or last-minute updates. You had to be prepared, think ahead, and get it right.

Today, the industry has evolved significantly. Events are more strategic, more experience-led, and more closely tied to wider business objectives. Technology plays a huge role, and expectations are higher across the board. And yet, at its core, the role hasn't really changed. We're still bringing people together, creating moments that matter, and being trusted to deliver something important.

The moments that shaped us

Over the years, there have been countless events, but it's not always the biggest ones that stay with you. Often, it's the moments behind them.

The early opportunities where someone trusted us when we were still finding our feet. The projects that pushed us out of our comfort zone and made us better. The long-standing relationships that grew into genuine partnerships built on trust.

Of course, there have also been the more challenging moments — the ones that didn't go entirely to plan. But those are often the experiences that teach you the most. In this industry, it's not just about what happens when everything runs smoothly; it's about how you respond when it doesn't.

What the pandemic taught us

"Events aren't just 'nice to have.' They bring people together in a way that very little else can."

Like many in the events industry, the pandemic was one of the most challenging periods we've ever faced. Almost overnight, everything stopped. It forced us to rethink, adapt, and in many ways, simply hold our nerve. But it also reinforced something we had always known: connection matters.

When events disappeared, people really felt the absence of that connection. Coming through that period reminded us why we do what we do — and why it continues to matter.

What hasn't changed

For all the changes in the industry, some things have remained constant.

Thank you

On a personal level, I've also been incredibly supported throughout this journey by my family and friends. My husband has been a great source of support, especially through the more demanding and unpredictable moments that come with running a business like this. Our twins, Felicity and Samuel, and our dog Sunflower have also been a huge part of life along the way, bringing perspective, humour, and a reminder of what really matters outside of work. Alongside them, I've been fortunate to have a circle of friends and family who have always shown up, supported the highs, and helped steady things during the more challenging times. None of this would have been possible without that foundation behind me.

Reaching this milestone as an events professional isn't something you do on your own.

To our clients: thank you for trusting us, whether it was for a single event or over many years. To our suppliers: thank you for your consistency, your support, and everything you do behind the scenes. And to everyone who has been part of the 12 Degrees journey in any way — we are incredibly grateful.

You've all played a part in getting us here.

What's next

Twenty years gives you perspective. It helps you understand what matters, what lasts, and what's worth holding onto. We're proud of what we've built, but we're just as focused on what comes next. The industry will continue to evolve, and so will we. We'll keep learning, adapting, and doing what we've always done — delivering events that are thoughtful, well-executed, and built around people.

Because that's what has always mattered most.