Each week, we ask small businesses some key questions. This time we speak to Liz Thomson, who owns and runs My Beautiful Caravan in Stonehaven
How and why did you start in business?
We have many visitors and locals in Stonehaven with great taste and style. They need more choice and a variety of places to go shopping. The week I had my “lightbulb” moment a small shop unit came up for rent in a prime location, so I decided to give it a try. We sell gifts, cards and a range of hand-picked vintage items.
How did you get to where you are today?
I trained in my dad’s intellectual property law business before becoming a mum. It gave me an insight into the importance of good customer service. I love art and design and am passionate about individual artistic expression. I love having the flexibility to explore new opportunities, and running your own business is a great way to achieve this.
Who helped you?
My friend, Jennifer Davidson, agreed at the outset to come on board – I realised that, with my family commitments, I would struggle to man the shop by myself. Her role has evolved into shop manager. Jennifer has a great eye and is amazing with the customers. I am very proud of what we’ve achieved in a short time.
I continue to get great business advice from my dad, Ian Murgitroyd, and Therese McKeon of (fabric importer and wholesaler) Texcraft, who gave me a crash course in retailing.
A big thanks too to my lovely family and friends who have been a great support throughout many late nights and weekends spent unpacking orders, pricing and generally helping out.
Liz Pirrie at Business Gateway has given superb book-keeping support and the Federation of Small Businesses has been great – I got fantastic free legal advice from its helpline.
I have certainly learned that talking to as many people as possible for their views and experience is invaluable.
What has been your biggest mistake?
A few product lines we initially stocked were not suited to our market. We have learned from that and concentrated our efforts on getting in more of what we love but will also work for our customers.
What is your greatest achievement?
There are many high points, including good reviews on our Facebook page and returning customers. My personal “woohoo” moment was when the manageress of (online retailer) Oliver Bonas said she wished she had a shop like ours. There is no greater praise than being likened to the sort of shop you would find in Glasgow’s west end.
If you were in power in government, what would you change?
I would clamp down on rogue traders targeting businesses. A dishonest broker duped me into verbally agreeing to an electricity contract which was going to cost us a fortune. It was before we even opened the doors and started trading. I managed, eventually, to get released from the contract but it caused weeks of stress. There is so much in place to protect individual consumers but not much for businesses.
What do you still hope to achieve?
My passion is improving the overall experience for locals and visitors. There are a few nice places in Stonehaven now but we definitely need more.
What do you do to relax?
Yoga – I recently qualified as an instructor.
What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
When I can, I love to watch Modern Family with my two older children, Connie and Dylan.
What do you waste your money on?
Food – we like to sit down together as a family, so I don’t see it as a waste.
How would your friends describe you?
I dread to think. Fun-loving, adventurous, creative, a good mum and a bit mad.
What would your enemies say about you?
I try not to care what they say.
What do you drive and dream of driving?
I’ve got a Range Rover Sport. It’s bright red and I love it.