It’s been a while but I’m thrilled to introduce another Design Diva business mum, Nichola who runs a gorgeous vintage inspired online gift boutique.
What’s your name? Nichola Watson
How many children and old are they? I have one hilarious little boy called Stanley who is 16 months and I’m 7 months pregnant with my second
What is the name of your business?
What is your business and when did you start it? An online gift boutique I started back in 2010
What was the inspiration behind your business? I come from a pretty Yorkshire Village on the outskirts of Kingston Upon Hull, famous for its fish trail and the House Martins and definitely NOT for its shopping. With a background in design and experience working in the buying department at John Lewis I decided to make my own gift boutique online, a wibbly wobbly world filled with all the things I love and covered in my own personality. I had also just returned from a year of travelling the world where I had spent time contemplating what I wanted from life, which was children and being able to stay at home to raise them but also still work.
Can you share 3 positive aspects about being a business mum?
Being able to stay at home and raise my children whilst still contributing financially to the household. Keeping my independence and being my own boss after working for other companies for over 10yrs since graduating
Any downsides?
It’s hard to switch off on an evening or weekend and relax. If I’m not thinking about what Stanley needs I’m thinking about what I could do to improve the website and its infinite!
How do you keep motivated?
Being creative motivates me – so if I’m getting bogged down with stock and sales sheets I design some new marketing material or take some product shots.
Would you change anything you’ve done in building and developing your business?
My business is continually changing to try and keep up with social media and peoples tastes, its busy busy busy!
What tips would you give anyone wanting to start their own business?
Go for it! Its daunting at first, but once you get started its worth it to be your own boss!
Nichola was actually kind enough to send me one of her Wash Bag sets to try out for myself and it is just lovely. The set retails for £16.99 and comprsises of a smaller bag ideal for make-up and the larger ideal for toiletries on your travels.
But I’m quite tempted by the gorgeous Owl and Otter set too!
If you’re looking for gifts for your loved ones this Christmas do check out Nichola’s lovely website; you know it’s great to support small businesses, particularly at this time of year.
And thank you to Nichola for sharing her story with us, I hope others have been inspired. You can follow Spoilt Rotten Gifts on social media at the following places:
Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
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