From market stall to shop in nine months - Sutton stallholder to open new business

Linda Ashmore started with a small unit in Sutton Indoor market in January, is opening her first shop All things Nice and Beautiful on November 15.

Mum of one Linda, 46, said: “It was frightening at first and it has been hard work and a real struggle giving up a good job but it has paid off and I think things are going to get better and better. I am now really excited about moving into our new shop.”

Her stall selling giftware, home accessories and unique personalised handmade signs and plaques, opened in January this year.

It soon became apparent that there was a real demand for my her products, so with the help of grant funding for new, small businesses from Mansfield District Council’s Regeneration Department, she decided to expand.

Linda completed the lease on the shop at 13 Low Street, last week.

The shop also has a second floor with a large workspace, in which she intends to hold a variety of crafting workshops for customer for jewellery making, soap and candle making.

Would she recommend starting a new business?

“If you have the drive to succeed - go for it,” said Linda.