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Case Study - Caroline Brown

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Member Name: 
Caroline Brown
Company Name: 
The House of Rose & Brown
When did you start your business?: 
1 May 2007
What do you do?: 
I have a vintage boutique and gallery at 16 Victoria Road, Saltaire. I also organise related events around the region including the Saltaire Vintage Home & Fashion Fair. There are three lined up for this year - 23 February, 5 July and 13 December 2008 at Victoria Hall in Saltaire.
What made you want to set up your own business?: 
To use my creative and organisational skills, to be fulfilled, to be my own boss, to be in control of my own time and my own future.
What is the biggest problem you have faced?: 
The most difficult aspect was setting up and starting to run the business whilst still working in a full time office job - this was not only tiring it also meant that my home life was somewhat neglected! Concern about still being able to pay my household bills and personal financial commitments is always at the back of my mind. But the loss of security is worth the gain in motivation and reward, and will help to push me on to succeed.
What is your greatest success?: 
Responding to the hugely positive reception and support given to The House of Rose & Brown, which started off as a temporary two-week showcase, by taking the plunge and leaving my full-time job in order to make it permanent.
What is the most important quality you need to work for yourself?: 
Motivation
What do you love most about working for yourself?: 
Being in control of my own time and making all the decisions, plus being able to follow through an idea from conception to fruition!
How has Bradford Kickstart helped you?: 
Support from knowledgeable and enthusiastic mentors and advisors. Contact with other fledgling businesses. A general awareness that there are lots of people who want me to succeed.
What advice would you give other people about setting up a business?: 
Take the time to think about whether it’s what you really want; talk to lots of experienced and positive people and listen to their advice; if the opportunity of a lifetime comes along – GO FOR IT; believe that anything is possible; be prepared to eat, drink and sleep your new business; never be afraid to ask for things - my motto for this year has been ‘Be cheeky’ and so far it has worked!
Website: 
The House of Rose & Brown Website