Brand photo-shoot in Lincolnshire - hospitality trainer and consultant - Dan Barnes, Flourish Hospitality
Meet Dan - founder of Flourish Hospitality, trainer, consultant, speaker, karaoke enthusiast, and coach for teams who care about making moments that matter. With over 25 years in the hospitality industry, Dan has led Learning & Development for luxury hotels, restaurants, and private members’ clubs, creating tailored training that grows confident teams and exceptional service. Now he’s started Flourish Hospitality to bring his knowledge and expertise to a wider range of clients.
“Throughout my career, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful great training can be, not just for improving service, but for shaping culture, growing confidence, and helping people feel proud of the work they do. Flourish is about more than training delivery, it’s about partnership. I work closely with clients to understand their teams, their values, and their guest experience goals. From pre-opening support and onboarding design to leadership workshops and guest experience training, everything I create is tailored. I deliver meaningful learning that helps people grow, and businesses thrive.”
We spent a brilliant spring day capturing images that truly reflect who Dan is and the unique balance he brings to everything he does – professional yet warm, thoughtful with just the right touch of fun. From the get-go, it was clear that showcasing his personality and values through the shoot was key. That’s one of the reasons why we chose to shoot at the fantastic Westgate Bakery in Grantham – an independent gem with seriously delicious food and drink. It was the perfect backdrop, not just for its aesthetic but because it aligned with Dan’s passion for supporting independent business and the hospitality industry. We carefully selected locations and tones that would speak directly to Dan’s ideal clients, using a clean, stylish palette of navy and off-white to echo his brand colours.
This shoot was all about bringing out Dan’s infectious energy, his wicked sense of humour, and his deep love for food, people, and the industry he’s proud to be part of. We laughed our way through the day – grumbling at the sunshine for being TOO sunny (yes, really!), dodging unexpected gas works next to one of our locations (the joys of working on location!), and swapping endless Friends quotes.
“Huge thank you, Karina, for being an absolute star behind the camera. You managed to take a nervous, slightly awkward grown man and help me feel relaxed, confident, and completely myself.”
Dan, it was such a joy to work with you on this – thank you for trusting me to bring your vision (and that brilliant energy) to life on camera. Could I be any more excited to see what’s next for you? 🚀
Curious to find out more about Dan and his fantastic work? Follow him on Instagram or connect with him on LinkedIn for uplifting and thought-provoking learning.
See more from Dan’s shoot below:
