Jane Nelson of Stirling-based Jane Nelson Interiors talks to Courier Business.
Q How and why did you start in business?
A My children were both at school and I did not want to be tied to a nine-to-five, but couldn’t sit still.
I had originally worked in architecture for firms in Glasgow and London before moving into conservation.
I missed the creativity of my profession and loved the interior element of my previous roles, so decided to launch Jane Nelson Interiors (www.janenelsoninteriors.com) six years ago.
Q What do you do?
A I’m an interior design architect, which means I get involved in the whole design process: from initial concept and drawings to pulling walls down and putting the finishing touches in place, such as a vase on a table.
Q Who has helped?
A Many friends; without one in particular I wouldn’t have the business that I have today.
My mum has been great, my daughter Susan has always believed in me, and my husband ‘lets me get on with it’.
Business Gateway has been a great source of information.
I went to them when I first launched and the seminars, as well as Women into Business events, were immensely helpful, with the latter helping me secure work.
They have been helping me with search engine optimisation and I am about to start a social media course.
Q What was your biggest mistake?
A Not employing an accountant from day one. When I eventually took on an accountant I couldn’t believe the difference it made.
I’ve learnt that I should spend my time doing what I am good at, and let others help me in areas that aren’t my forte.
Q What would you hope to achieve in the future?
A Helping more commercial clients increase the rental and capital value of their properties.
For instance, on one commission last year my work which had involved giving a property a complete facelift doubled the rental value of the house in just six weeks.
Q Do you want to recruit in the future?
A Absolutely. Although I’ve no definite timescale for this, it is something I would like to do.
Q What is the hardest thing about running your own business?
A Time, or the lack of it.
Q Any advice for wannabe entrepreneurs?
A Yes: grab every opportunity you can, and if there’s any aspect of your business that you aren’t good at get help so you can focus on what you set up to do. And keep your passion alive.
Q Who and what provide your inspiration?
A Everything and everyone.
I carry a camera and snap everything I see that I like: a colour, a flower, a doorway, piece of furniture etc. I draw inspiration from all around me; everyday life.