A new events business celebrated its launch with a gathering for friends, family and the business community.

Self-confessed event enthusiasts Donna Emery and Verity Pitman have combined their love and skills of business, project and event management to create Poundbury Events.

Both have strong backgrounds in supporting and managing businesses.

Donna is a consultant and mentor at Saving Grace Business Support.

She spends her spare time with her husband and two boys and enjoys planning and arranging social gatherings for friends and family.

Verity is a Project and Programme Manager at Janus PPM.

Outside work she enjoys the outdoors, socialising with friends, family and her three nephews.

Donna said: “Verity and I met at BNI a year ago and knew that we would be able to collaborate on a project.

“We didn’t dream that it would lead to us setting up a company together.

“We’re obviously thrilled that we can pool our talents and resources.”

The launch event at Poundbury’s Bonjour Cafe, pictured left, was also attended by members of the Poundbury, Dorchester and Weymouth business communities.

Highlights of the evening included an acoustic set by Hannah Robinson Music and magical trickery by magician Chris Howat.

Guests also received a complimentary canned cocktail created by mixologists at PlayYard Weymouth.

A raffle with prizes donated by the local business community raised around £300 for Weldmar Hospicecare.

Verity said: “Now we’ve officially launched, we’re raring to go and looking for some exciting events to create and plan.

“If anyone is thinking about holding a corporate function, perhaps an awards ceremony or ball to celebrate a hardworking team, or a community event that you’re looking to launch then get in touch with Poundbury Events.”

• Email donna@poundburyeventsmanagement.com or verity@poundburyeventsmanagement.com to arrange an appointment.