Meet LJ: A New Chapter of Cat Cuddles and Career Joy
When LJ welcomed her first feline guests to Longcroft Creeting St Peter in October 2024, it marked the beginning of a purrfect new chapter – one rooted in her love for animals, family, and a complete change of pace from the corporate world.
Nestled in the picturesque village of Creeting St Peter in Mid Suffolk’s Gipping Valley, LJ’s eight-suite boutique cat hotel enjoys peaceful rural surroundings, mature gardens, and breathtaking views of nearby farmland. But it’s not just the setting that makes this hotel so special – it’s the heart behind it.
After many years working in tech, LJ made the bold decision to make a change of career, choosing to focus on what truly brought her joy: caring for cats. Encouraged by her husband Jon – her partner of 34 years – and inspired by a stay her own pussycats had at Longcroft Orpington, LJ decided to follow her dreams.
“I thought ‘wow, life goals’ when I saw Daisy’s hotel,” LJ recalls. “I was blown away by the whole experience, and my husband said, ‘Do it – follow your dreams.’ So I did!”
At home, cats have always been part of the family – from rescue kitties to pampered pedigrees. LJ and Jon currently share their lives with four furry residents: Roo the ginger tom, Trudy the gentle Scottish Fold, and their mischievous Maine Coon brothers, Bert and Ernie. They also keep six chickens for good measure!
Longcroft Creeting St Peter is truly a family affair – with LJ’s grown-up son and daughter, and of course Jon, all playing a part in daily cuddles and care. Each guest enjoys personalised, one-on-one attention in a tranquil environment designed around feline wellbeing.
“There are so many benefits to running my own hotel,” LJ says. “I get to bond with gorgeous cats and support their individual needs, especially our long-term guests. The work is varied and rewarding, from chatting with cat parents to enriching the lives of our furry visitors – and there’s no commute!”
LJ hasn’t looked back since making the leap from tech to tails – and her advice to others thinking about it?
“Do it! You’ll still use your people and professional skills, you’ll meet an amazing community, and you’ll have a team behind you for guidance and support every step of the way. It’s truly life changing.”
Interested in joining the Longcroft family?
Call us on 020 3887 2443 or email franchise@longcroftcathotel.co.uk for an informal chat with our friendly team.
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