It is always best to check on a subjects suitability for your group. Some are more technical while others are aimed at less keen gardeners and some are designed for those simply wanting an entertaining session but have no gardening knowledge. Also it is sometimes necessary for technical reasons such as a change in legislation or a change of information to take a subject off the list until it can be updated.
Initially please check with me on suitability when choosing subjects before putting out any information.
When booking I like full details of the venue with close by parking along with a contact number for the date of the event. Closer to the event please send me a reminder 10-14 days before by email or telephone. I do take a long while to set so would like access to the venue 45 minutes before start time in or to allow me to tape down cable and test system etc.
I sometimes need one table otherwise I provide all my own equipment and all my electical equipment is PAT tested regularley.
I do lecture all over the country, having traveled to Haverford West, Hampshire and even Aberdeen. However I prefer not to drive more than a total of 200 miles without an overnight stay. This is subject to discussion and am happy to stay with members of the group or in local bed and breakfast. On longer journeys my wife sometimes acommpanies me and helps with equipment etc.
This is always a difficult one, having been ripped off many years ago I decided to charge within three bands:
up to 75 people from £90
76-125 people from £110
125 upwards from £130
However, these are for guidance and subject to negotiation.
Travel and other expenses are charged in adition, currently I charge 45p for mileage plus any toll or zone charges. I do vary traveling per mile according to fuel costs, this only seems fair when groups are booking years in advance.
It is very rare not to be able to attend an event or lecture, looking back over many years the two problems that have arisen are either inclement weather and when advised not to travel or work by a doctor. Taking inclement weather first, I often think if it is unsafe for me to travel it puts it is also unwise for members to risk turning out due to snow or ice. Health wise only twice in many years have doctors advised me not to go out. In both cases I have friends who usually will stand in for me and likewise i will do the same for them. it is always worth contacting me if your speaker is unable to attend as I may be able to help you out.
Depending on the subject and time of year, I often bring surplus plants form my various plant collections such as herbaceous subjects to variegated zonal Pelargoniums,, Aeoniums and Echeverias.During the inclement weather in winter and when certain plant groups are not at their best then I will not have plants along for sale.
