RED CARPET HISTORY
In 2008 I set out to build a small independent two-screen cinema and café bar where people could enjoy a value-for-money two-course meal and a film under one roof. The idea wasn’t new, but I believed it would resonate more if guests could eat and chat in a relaxed space, then wander over to a peaceful little cinema with their especially reserved seats. It felt like a romantic, enchanting concept. I envisioned gliding through it with measured optimism, solid business sense and realistic plans.
By the time I opened in August 2013, I looked like I’d stepped straight out of a “Grand Designs” disaster. Slightly wild-eyed and completely consumed, I had bought land without finance. I battled through four rounds of planning, was rejected by seven banks, sold everything except a ten-year-old car, revised the architecture 53 times, and acquired two digital projectors I couldn’t operate. I had no home, no job, no pension. I barely slept, rarely ate, and made frantic lists at 4 a.m. I was, without doubt, utterly bonkers.
That was twelve years ago. Twelve extraordinary, terrifying, life-changing years. Miraculously, I opened on time and on budget, spending £956,000 on the project. The support I received from the community was astonishing. Every bump, crash and detour shaped The Red Carpet into something I'm deeply proud of, both as a business and a part of the local fabric.
Since Covid, the flow of films into cinemas stalled. Turnover fell across the industry. Despite the strain, I kept all my staff and focused heavily on the business culture. Things were financially tight, but when films returned in late 2024, the hard work paid off. Turnover rebounded strongly in 2025. That said, food inflation, rising utilities, national insurance contributions and minimum wage increases continue to pose challenges. I try to lead calmly, with clear goals and emotional steadiness. I’ve also taken on more charity work, raising nearly £2,000 for the village Teddy Festival through marina businesses, and pledging £15,000 from charity screenings to support rebuilding Holland Sports Club. Challenges still appear but I’ve got used to them, and I feel I have some incredible community support, thank goodness. So cheers to the next 12 years and all the films that delight us.
To everyone who chooses The Red Carpet, I can’t thank you enough for your support.
Kate