Eleanor Gardener
Style-ID
Bangor
07876793825
info@style-id.co.uk
Eleanor Gardner heard about the Ffatri Fenter through her friend who was also an ex-client to the Ffatri Fenter. After she read our web-site, she soon realised that this was exactly the type of help she needed to start up her own "personal stylist" venture.
After spending some time in London, studying Fashion Design Technology and Fashion Textile in London College of Fashion and then working for some of the biggest names within the fashion industry, she began feeling confident that she had something special to offer the people of Wales. She had the exclusive information straight from London.
"In the beginning, I felt very excited, but I knew I had to follow everything through thoroughly. I wanted to return to Wales to carry out my idea because I felt that there is a need for this kind of service in Wales. I have a lot to offer."
Eleanor established Style-ID in May 2006. She has many contacts within the media industry and has successfully broken through and is now working as a clothes stylist on various television programmes for presenters and actors.
"I would have started my own business in any case, although with the help of the Ffatri Fenter, I felt more confident whilst developing the idea. The coordinator was always there for me."
Eleanor received help to write a business plan and help with her cash flow forecast. But she stated that the marketing grant was the biggest help of all.
"Knowing that there was financial help available was a relief; I would never have been able to pay from my own pocket. The marketing materials were more expensive than I anticipated."
Whilst working with a local graphic designer, Style-ID has developed a professional brand and a unique identity. She has also given the web-site design work to another client of the Ffatri Fenter, Owain Searell, amalgam8. She is now organising a launch party in Cardiff to promote Style-ID. She feels rather frustrated that she has no time on her hands to promote the “personal shopper” side of the business.
It hasn?t been an easy process, but she said that working for London?s biggest and smallest businesses has prepared her for the stress.
"I still worry about things like tax and insurance - I'm not good with figures! Figures are the most daunting part of starting your own business!"
She reveals that the most positive aspect of working for her-self is the flexibility. She loves working on various projects.
"Each day is so different. I'm over the moon."
