A Change of Pace at Larchfield Estate: Reflection on Building a Sustainable Business and Leadership

Not often am I at Larchfield Estate without a prep list in hand — but the Building a Sustainable Business breakfast was well worth the change of pace.

I’m usually there in full catering mode — delivering event catering in Northern Ireland for Intimate Weddings, Corporate Retreats, Birthday Celebrations and more. As a trusted catering partner, I’ve served everything from relaxed grazing lunches to formal dinners at Larchfield Estate.

It’s one of those rare venues that manages to be both impressive and genuinely welcoming — with flexible indoor and outdoor spaces that suit all kinds of events.

But this time, I wasn’t working — just attending. No equipment, no service, no kitchen to head to… I even drove in through the guest driveway, which felt strange in the best way.

Building a Sustainable Business: The Event

The Building a Sustainable Business breakfast was hosted in the Orangery at Larchfield Estate — a light-filled, calming space that matched the tone of the morning perfectly. Organised by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council and the LCCC Entrepreneurs’ Network in collaboration with Podiem, the event brought together local business owners and entrepreneurs for an honest, insightful conversation around long-term thinking and sustainability in business.

Gavin Mackie shared the journey he and his wife Sarah have been on — building not only a carbon-negative venue, but also a business rooted in purpose, heritage and responsibility. It’s not just about the environmental side of sustainability; it’s about people, relationships and the ripple effect of values-led decisions.

“Work with people who reflect your values” — a simple line that stuck with me and really applies to what we do in inclusive event catering too.

The session was a brilliant reminder that legacy isn’t only about land or buildings. It’s about intention, leadership and how we build businesses that last — for the right reasons.

Taking a Moment to Explore Larchfield Estate

After the session, I took a rare moment to explore the estate in the sunshine. I walked over to see the alpacas, wandered through the beautifully kept gardens, and had a quick peek at the on-site accommodation — which many clients use for overnight stays or full weekend events.

It’s not often I get the chance to take it all in without an apron on!

Why Larchfield Estate Is Ideal for Corporate Events, Retreats and Weddings

If you haven’t yet explored Larchfield Estate as an event venue, it’s well worth your time — whether you’re planning a corporate away day, team-building retreat, strategy session or a wedding weekend.

• The Orangery and The Barn is ideal for leadership breakfasts, planning meetings and networking sessions.
• The Old Piggery is a flexible space for smaller team events or creative workshops.
• The luxury on-site accommodation sleeps up to 43 guests, perfect for staff retreats, intimate weddings or weekend-long events.

The team at Larchfield have created a venue that balances warmth with professionalism — and as someone who regularly provides corporate event catering and wedding catering in Northern Ireland, it’s a pleasure to work alongside a space that aligns so well with thoughtful, purpose-led hospitality.

Looking for Catering That Reflects Your Values?

At Table, we believe great food and genuine hospitality go hand in hand. If you’re planning a business event, retreat or celebration at Larchfield Estate or elsewhere in Northern Ireland, get in touch here — or explore our Corporate Catering and Wedding Services pages.

We’ve catered a range of events at Larchfield over the years — small weddings, corporate lunches, relaxed family gatherings. It’s a venue that works well with our approach: straightforward, good food served with care. Whether it’s a sit-down meal, grazing boards or something more informal, we build menus around what the day needs. We’re used to working with dietary requirements too — without making it a fuss. Larchfield’s setup makes service run smoothly, which is always appreciated on the day.