How Aoife turned her wrapping skills into a professional service
How would you describe your business and what inspired you to go self-employed?
I run a professional gift wrapping service which includes hosting workshops, creating bespoke gift wrapping for brands, running fun ice-breakers for team building sessions, pop-up wrapping at events and markets and wrapping private clients’ and corporate gifts.
My career to date has been in various roles within PR and Marketing, but I find practical working with my hands really enjoyable and needed a flexible job I could do around family commitments. I combined these factors with my passion for paper, colour and ribbons, a gap in the market and decided to give it a go.
What barriers and challenges did you have when it came to getting your business off the ground?
I found it difficult to make the move from talking about my idea to actually starting it. I needed the confidence to give it a go and trust my instinct. I also needed the funds to market my service professionally with excellent photography and branding.
How did you find out about The Business Factory and our Start-Up Grant Scheme?
My friend recommended The Business Factory for initial support and advice and I learnt about the grant scheme through my first conversation with one of the team. Then I attended an event that helped me understand more about the details for applying etc..
How did you find the process?
Very straightforward! – I had lots of help and advice from the team and actually found filling out the forms really helped my planning and thought process.
What has this grant allowed you to achieve in starting up your business?
The grant has enabled me to start up really quickly – in time for the Christmas season. I have been able to invest in a graphic designer and photographer (both local) and the supplies I need to create promotional materials. It would have taken me at least a year to complete this myself, if at all, and it has meant I could do it altogether, which is much more impactful.
What does the future hold for Forbes Finishings?
At the moment I am working on building my brand awareness, connecting with collaborators and hosting workshops. In the Spring I will focus on building corporate links, rolling out a PR plan and hopefully wrapping a lot of gifts beautifully!
Would you recommend The Business Factory services overall, and in particular would you encourage others to get in touch to find out about our new Start-Up Grant scheme?
Absolutely. Not only have I secured funding which has changed my start-up pace dramatically, but I have also met other start-up owners, attended really beneficial events and have been given the support to launch my service with conviction.
Has Aoife's story got you thinking?
Find out how we can help your business by calling us on 0191 643 6409 or drop us an email on info@businessnorthtyneside.co.uk
