Small Business Saturday: Case Study - Lesley Ashworth
Published on Friday, 04 December 2015
A small business specialising in ladies accessories and wedding hats.
What makes being a local, independent business in Solihull special?
For us it has to be our personal service. Our buyers work in the shop and see customers every day. We find out what the customers are really looking for when they shop. At the shows we try to source what our customers want. As a small business we take time and pride in talking to the customers and building up relationships. Some of our regulars we know exactly what new stock they would be interested in and can steer them to the right product.
Our main service in the last few years has been Wedding Hats and Fascinators. We encourage our customers to bring in their outfit for the special event then we try different hats, bags and shoes till we find them the perfect combo. Big stores rarely have the staff and time to give the customer the one to one attention they deserve and desire. Weddings are a very special lifetime event and we believe the preparation before should be just as exciting as the big day.
Have you accessed any local support and how has this benefited you as a business?
We use the Solihull BID opportunities from time to time and Mell Square Marketing for social media and emails.
The last two years Solihull BID provided us with free stalls at the Christmas Market which helped up advertise the shop and boost sales.
What are your top tips for someone looking to start up a new business?
Patience and invest carefully. Don’t think you will become successful overnight.
A small business cash flow is key. We find buying small quantities and re-ordering regularly when items sell out has worked best for us.
Any interesting facts/figures?
Lesley has had her business for over 12 years.
We are the biggest stockist of Hats and Fascintors in Solihull.
For more information about Lesley Ashworth, please contact:
Manager Samantha Smith or Owner Lesley Ashworth - 0121 7056925 -
Samantha@lesleyashworth.co.uk -
www.lesleyashworth.co.uk