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How Elgin woman Hayley Kessack turned a crafty hobby into a business

H &M Designs owner Hayley Kessack is happy with the growth of the business. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson
H &M Designs owner Hayley Kessack is happy with the growth of the business. Image: Jason Hedges/ DC Thomson

Everyone has a hobby they wish to turn into a business.

For Hayley Kessack, it became a reality as she took the plunge in May 2022 to set up H & M Designs in Elgin.

She has always been full of creativity.

At first, it was a part-time hobby at home to spend more time with her daughter.

Then it developed into a business and last June, she moved into premises at Elizabeth House after her business grew.

H & M Designs’ Hayley Kessack is happy with the growth of the business. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

Hayley said: “I have always been crafty. “What initially started as a hobby has now turned into a full-blown business.

“I started off with knitting t-shirts and soon I bought a few machines.

“After that people started asking me for t-shirts and it snowballed from there.

“We needed to find premises as there wasn’t enough room at home for machines and supplies.

“I have really enjoyed it.”

Hayley Kessack with partner Mike Ogg. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

The former contract administrator admits she is surprised about the roaring success of the business.

She added: “We have been a lot busier than I ever thought.

“I always fancied turning it into a business.

“I am glad my partner pushed me to go for it.

“Also having my own business allows me to see my daughter Orlaith more which is important.

“In my last job, I was hardly seeing her.”

Equipment inside the offices at Elizabeth House. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

This firm provides clothing and accessories for all industries such as workwear and school wear.

They also offer a full in-house personalisation service as well.

Here you can have a look at our interactive map pinpointing new independent shops: 

Got a new shop opening in Elgin? Let us know and we can add it to the map!

Going forward she is positive about the future of Elgin.

Last month, we told how three businesses had moved into Elgin High Street units deserted by retail giants.

She added: “It is really encouraging to see a lot of new businesses popping up in Elgin.

“Many people have thought ‘why not?’ Just bite the bullet’ and set up their own business.”

H & M Designs is based at Elizabeth House. Image: Jason Hedges/DC Thomson

Are you interested in all the latest news and updates from Elgin? If so, why not join our new Facebook group here.

They are part of the Moray Gift Card scheme.

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