We've all heard the adage that women can multitask. Well, Sally and Lisa Brown can testify to this. Vale Life caught up with the long-term friends and full-time mums to find out more about their successful business, Ruby's Drawer.
THE LAST WORD
Who are you and what do you do?
Sally and Lisa Brown have been friends for over twenty years; both are married as well as being full-time mums. Ruby's Drawer sells costume jewellery and accessories at events/parties across South Wales. We offer a party-planning service and online shop and support many local charities, workplace events, school fayres, etc. We do a monthly event at the Red Dragon in Cardiff Bay.
Ruby's Drawer is a great name. Where did it come from?
We were on our way back from our first trade show chatting about names and it just clicked. We love the name and have received many compliments.
Where did the idea for Ruby's Drawer come from?
We came up with the idea on a family holiday to Spain. It was meant to be a part-time hobby, something for us mums to do together, but it has quickly become a business of its own.
How long has the business been running?
The business has been running for over eighteen months and is going from strength to strength.
What are your roles in the business?
We both work together; we love fashion and accessories and we choose the products personally. By listening to our customers we are able to react to the market quickly, always ensuring that we have up-to-date trends available at reasonable prices. We are fully aware of the economic climate and bear this in mind when procuring stock.
What is it like working together?
It has been a very busy 18 months with lots of laughs and tears, we have met some great people who have inspired us along the way, however we have had our ups and down but we are both strong characters and we have overcome them to create a great friendship/business partnership.
Who does your jewellery appeal to?
We have been delighted by the response of all our customers - we seem to attract ladies of all ages. As you will see from our online shop, we cater for almost every lady. We feel that we are an alternative to the High Street whilst keeping up with the latest fashion trends. Our chunky heart and silver range has proved to be a massive hit with clients of all ages.
Any new developments this year?
We launched our new website before Christmas. It took a lot of stressful late evenings, but it was worth it. Since launching we have been delighted with the fantastic response and feedback from customers.
Are you excited about 2011?
Absolutely! We now showcase a small selection of our products at The Academy Spa - Coleg Morgannwg, which has proved to be a huge success. We have built up a loyal returning client base and we will continue to support charities such as Help for Heroes, Y Beythin, Ty Hafan, CLIC Sargent and many more.
