Running a shop

Running a Shop: Trends Boutique

Running a shop is a dream business for lots of people, here’s the low down on what it’s really like to follow that dream.

What’s your business called?

Trends Boutique Limited

Can you describe it in one sentence?

On trend day, evening wear, shoes, bags and accessories for affordable prices under one roof

When did you start it and what inspired you?

I opened Trends at the beginning of 2015 after being made redundant from a clothes shop in Billericay High street, knowing there was a hole in the local market for reasonably priced up to date fashion for all ages but predominantly aiming at ages ranging from 25-65

How did you find your start up?

Hard work, with lots of planning, creating a business plan is a must.. What do you want to achieve? And stick to it

How do you manage working around your children?

With the help of good friends and my eldest child giving up his time to look after his younger brothers until I was able to cut down my hours once I had become established

Can you describe a typical day?

Meeting and greeting, stock deliveries, keeping abreast of what’s in for the new season, customers are my priority, I genuinely care for every person that walks through my door, I wanted to create a warm, comfortable shop that just feels like a bedroom, no hard selling, honesty and friendliness

What have you found hardest about running a shop?

Accounts, which is why I have a great accountant to do it all for me

What’s the best thing about being self employed? It’s mine, I work hard, but I now have the perfect balance around my 3 children, hard work pays off although it may take time

What are your plans for the future?

Possibly to move to another shop where I am seen, most of my custom comes from those that know I am here, passing trade would be great, that said, I’m grateful for what I have now and loving it

What advice would you give for someone just starting out?

Sit down and create your business plan, what do you want out of your business? Who are you targeting? A business plan is an absolute must

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?

Just that I love what I do, being made redundant was sad at the time but I’m a true believer, everything happens for a reason

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