By LISA S. KING

FN Asst. Editor

lisa@nasguard.com

After 30 years of planning some of Grand Bahama's most prestigious events, a local businesswoman is now using her organizing skills to build a new establishment in which she can provide 'hassle-free' service to those who want to host activities for special occasions.

Heather Strachan says for many years, she had a dream of opening a company that would cater to special events such as parties, weddings, christenings, bachelor parties, banquets and balls. Her dream became a reality last Friday when she officially opened Bootsie Limited, a company that would give her the opportunity to show the public that it is possible to hold an event without worrying about every detail that goes into it.

"My dream was to have people sit back and relax as me and my professional staff do everything else," she said. "We have been open for the last two weeks and now we have 88 functions lined up including 27 weddings."

Satisfied that she finally followed her dream, Strachan said she decided to venture into such a business because for the last 30 years, she had been coordinating memorable events like the Special Olympics, Salvation Army and Red Cross balls.

Located in the Regent Centre, Strachan is confident that she has what it takes to ensure Bootsie Limited takes flight in the Grand Bahama community and is certain that even though she is doing it alone without a business partner, she will succeed.

"It was always my dream that instead of just planning events for charitable organizations, I would also attempt to do it as a business of my own," she said. " I come with some 30 years of experience and I would say that I am definitely self-motivated.

"I believe in being resilient and know that I can be a good businessperson. I am very satisfied, elated and overjoyed about being able to finally open this business."

Strachan said her long-term plan for the future is to build Bootsie Limited into a 'top-notch' company where it will lead the way in offering event coordinating services. She insists that not only will her company be known in Grand Bahama, but will one day be able to service the entire northern region of The Bahamas.

Bootsie Limited offers a total package that includes everything an organization or individual would need for that perfect party or function. For a customized fee, persons can purchase various packages that can include the services of an M.C., having pictures taken, video taping, music, soloists, food, drinks, tables, chairs, tents, etc.

"For persons who want to hold a function, we would sit down with you, discuss your needs and then sign a contract," she said. "We will then offer an overall fee for the event based upon the number of persons projected to attend."

In fact, Strachan is seeking ways to ensure that her business is like a 'one-stop shop' where all the aforementioned services are provided solely by her company. For bachelor parties, the shrewd businesswoman says she can even provide the strippers!

"It is like having an entire package, everything is included, all I need is your colour scheme and I can work from there," she said. "It is very important for the public to have access to such services because if persons have worked extremely hard, all they need to do is show up and allow my professional staff to cater to their every need. Our main aim is for persons attending these events to relax and enjoy."

For those who may be interested in having Bootsie Limited handle your affair, you will be pleased to know that if you have not already thought of a venue, you don't have worry about that either as Strachan is in the process of building a place that will be more than capable of facilitating the event.