Success Stories: Memory Catcher

Creating a treasured keepsake to capture those special occasions is the idea behind ‘Memory Catcher’ a memory book created by Leeds Metropolitan University Graduate Tom Hook.

Memory Catcher is a professional book that contains photos and memorabilia from special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and graduations that are digitally scanned and printed onto high quality paper and are ideal gifts for family and friends.

Tom explains;

“the idea evolved when my mum wanted a special present for my sisters 18th birthday, something special, personal and unique, that would mean a lot on the day and be a keep sake forever, so I collated lots of old photos, letters and souvenirs from relatives and made books, so all the family could share the special memories.”

After producing a number of books Tom decided to turn his idea into a business and entered the Business Concept Competition run by Business Start-Up at Leeds Metropolitan University and was short listed as a finalist for the £2,000 prize money. 

“Gaining as much advice and support is crucial in the early stages of starting a business so after discussing my idea with the business mentor I entered the Concept Competition and applied for the Proof of Concept grant available through Business Start-Up, where I was awarded £1,000 to produce leaflets and hire a trade stand at the Ilkley Carnival to advertise my product and get my name out there.”

“As well as targeting the general public I have also started contacting funeral directors and distributing leaflets and demonstration books to funeral homes across Leeds, as the Memory Catcher will be a wonderful keepsake for those who have lost loved ones” said Tom.

Tom has also started offering the service of transferring video camcorder and VHS tapes onto DVD so he plans to promote both businesses over the forth coming months by attending trade shows, contacting car clubs, and introducing the service into chemists, newsagents and convenience stores across West Yorkshire.

June 2010