Each week, we ask small businesses key questions. Here we speak to Christine Fraser, who owns a boutique, Xanadu Ladies Fashions, on South Street, Elgin.
How and why did you start in business?
In 1995 I lived in Glasgow but my husband was working as an engineer, spending most of his time in the north-east. We moved to Elgin and although I worked in property management, there seemed very little likelihood of me finding a similar position in the area.
The change in circumstances was the perfect opportunity to go into business for myself.
Having used the services of a dress and hat hire agency in Glasgow on many occasions, I researched the market and decided it was something that would be a welcome addition to Elgin.
The good people of Moray welcomed the business with open arms and we immediately built up a regular base of clients wishing to sell and buy fabulous, nearly-new outfits.
About 10 years ago we decided to cease operating as an agency and expanded our stock of new occasion, evening and bridal wear, while still offering our hat service.
How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been lucky to have loyal customers who have continued to recommend me to friends, family and colleagues.
I have also adapted the business in line with trends, allowing me to build on my original client base.
School proms are a big deal now and for the past 15 years I have stocked a fabulous selection of evening dresses which attract customers from the islands to the central belt.
Who helped you?
When I initially thought of opening my shop I approached other similar businesses to ask for advice.
I was very lucky to meet a lovely lady who owned a successful shop in Glasgow and she steered me in the right direction.
I also met a fabulous fashion agent who gave me lots of advice and who I still do business with 24 years later. Support from other small businesses has been extremely helpful and I’m pleased I’ve been able to help many other start-ups over the years.
I joined the Federation of Small Businesses shortly after opening and its help has been invaluable.
What has been your biggest mistake?
There have been no major mistakes. However, this is partly due to advice I’ve received and by careful monitoring of trends and stock.
What is your greatest achievement?
Dressing some incredible women for some of the most important events of their lives.
When I help a customer find an outfit they love and feel confident in it’s a very rewarding experience.
Being an ever-present on the high street during very competitive times for almost 25 years is also a huge achievement.
If you were in power in government, what would you change?
Lots of things and one of them would be the taxation system for small businesses. The VAT threshold should be applied on a sliding scale basis to encourage more small businesses to grow.
What do you still hope to achieve?
I dress brides who came to me 10 years ago for their prom dresses and hope I can still be here to help this year’s prom girls find their perfect wedding dress in years to come.
I’m quite content just now and wish to simply continue having a great time and meeting and helping customers find the perfect outfit or hat for their special occasion.
What do you do to relax?
I drink wine. Spending time with great friends and family helps to keep me laughing.
What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
This Is Us on Amazon Prime is the best series I’ve seen in years. I’ve laughed, cried and laughed some more – and the soundtrack is fabulous.
What do you waste your money on?
Foreign holidays. I also love nice hotel breaks around Scotland, which are definitely not a waste.
How would your friends describe you?
I’d like to think reliable, loyal and always up for fun.
What would your enemies say about you?
Hopefully I don’t have any enemies but if I do, I don’t really care what they have to say.
What do you drive and dream of driving?
I drive an Audi A1 which I am more than happy with. As long as it gets me from A to B I don’t care.