Christmas maybe upon us but for one start up client the planning of the festive season began during a heat wave.
Muriel Williams has always had a passion for crafts and in 2012 with the help of the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) Muriel’s Creations became established.
Examples of Muriel’s Creations
Selling unique handmade cards and books throughout the year for any occasion Muriel began making her Christmas stock in June, Muriel explains:
“I hate to say it but when the heat wave was upon us I was sat with the patio doors open playing Christmas music to get me into the spirit of cutting out snowflakes and making seasonal Christmas cards and books. It is a busy time of the year and I have a lot of Christmas fairs to attend but I must admit it was hard to stay focused on Christmas in the height of summer!”
Muriel visited the BIC and was appointed business adviser, Debbie Simpson and has gone from strength to strength ever since, she continues:
“Debbie was wonderful she supported me with everything I needed to do to become my own boss, from business planning to finance.
“My skills have certainly enhanced along with the growth of the business and looking back I feel very privileged that the business is still here.
“I couldn’t have done this without the support of the BIC and my family.
“A lot of hard work and long hours go into running your own business but I think it is paying off. I now have a lot of return customers and many bespoke requests. All my products are made from scratch and you can’t buy two cards the same. I also ensure that I only buy British, I believe in supporting our own suppliers.
“At the moment I am concentrating on the Christmas fairs and come next summer it will be Christmas again in my house as I plan for the next.”
