Each week, we ask small businesses some key questions. This time we speak to Belia Biesheuvel, owner and resident potter at the Findhorn Pottery.
How and why did you start in business?
I came to Findhorn in 1996 at a crossroads in my life. My previous career as a singer was drawing to a close and I was looking for a new creative outlet. I walked into the Findhorn Pottery and fell in love.
I apprenticed myself to the then owner/resident potter and learnt the craft from him. I have had business experience in retailing as a “proper job” before I became a singer. This experience enabled me to see the potential of the pottery not only as a studio but as a business.
Therefore, when the previous potter wanted to retire, I took the opportunity to take on the business and steer it into its next phase of development. In 2006 I totally refurbished the studio, creating a well appointed modern shop in one end. The shop is open to the public seven days a week and offers high quality pottery at very reasonable prices.
How did you get to where you are today?
I would say by taking risks, tenacity, hard work, luck and grabbing my chances as they come along.
Who helped you?
I have good friends who have mentored, encouraged and generally supported me. I am also a member of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and it has been a great help in networking and other support.
What has been your biggest mistake?
Not listening to my intuition. I put my trust in, what turned out to be, some dubious characters, who started trading as Findhorn Pottery behind my back. I am very thankful to the FSB legal team whose advice helped me during this difficult time.
What was your greatest achievement?
Making a successful career change at age 50 and still going strong 18 years later.
If you were in power in Government, what would you change?
Re-establish ceramic degree courses as well as re establishing arts/crafts curriculum in all schools. With the closure of all ceramic departments in colleges and universities, there is a great danger that pottery will become yet another lost craft.
We try to do our bit by offering hobby classes as well as in-depth study programmes for those who want to take their pottery more seriously.
What do you still hope to achieve?
I would like to see the pottery become a highly regarded and well-known, supplying a number of retail outlets.
What do you do to relax?
I like to garden, read, listen to music and watch TV.
What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
I am currently reading a compilation of Rumpole at the Old Bailey and have loved the Great British Bakeoff. Currently Strictly has me glued to the telly.
What do you waste your money on?
As a crafter, I don’t have money to waste. If there is any spare, I spend it on the latest pottery must have.
How would your friends describe you?
I would hope that they would describe me as kind, loyal, hardworking and fun.
What would your enemies say about you?
I am not to be messed with.
What do you drive and dream of driving?
I drive a Citroen C1 and am happy with this little run a round although a Mercedes Sports would not be rejected if it came along.