From Hiking Boots to High Heels - Best Young Person in Business Award.
What an incredibly exciting week this has been! I’m still absolutely buzzing! Last Thursday something truly amazing happened. I won the ‘Best Young Person in Business’ at the Causeway Chamber Awards. It truly was a night to remember.
Having found out three weeks prior that I was a finalist in the Best Young Person in Business category, I had been eagerly awaiting the big night. I was truly honoured to be attending as a finalist, I was so proud to attend this fantastic Black Tie Gala Dinner having gained recognition for my business. It meant so much. In the weeks prior to event night, talk in-store turned to dresses, make-up and hairstyles! There was of course much speculation as to what I would wear, as you would know, I’m more used to hiking boots than high heels! So, I had a lot to learn and even more to buy! We thoroughly enjoyed the whole build up. Each day that went by got us closer to the big event, until finally it was awards night.
Eventually it was time for the winner of the Best Young Person in Business category to be announced. It was a very difficult category, there were 10 talented finalists. What a marvellous testament to local young entrepreneurs, it’s amazing to see so many young people start businesses and thrive, especially during a global pandemic. I was proud to stand alongside each of them.
I can’t explain the excitement (and shock) of the moment my name was announced as the winner. I’ll never forget what that moment felt like. Pure joy is the only way I can describe it. I had done it! It was a big moment. I have been on such massive journey with my business. Having started my business in a field in Ballintoy out of my car boot, to becoming an award-winning businesswoman - it’s been quite the journey!
I hope someday you get to hear my full story, some of you perhaps already have at some of my business talks. Determination has been key. There were hurdles along the way but what I’ve realised on my journey, is the key to success is having the determination to keep going, to not stop fighting until you achieve your dream. Success is a mindset.
What started as my hobby, has become my career. I’m living my dream. I’ve watched as my business has gone from strength to strength and my confidence has grown with it. It’s been an amazing adventure. However, I have not been alone on my mission. I’ve had so much support and encouragement along the way and that’s always one of my tips to anybody thinking of starting a business. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your capabilities. People can achieve amazing things if others believe in them enough to give them an opportunity.
‘All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them’.
If you are reading this with a business idea, if you have a passion in life that you’d just love to become your career. I’d encourage you to go for it - You can do it! It’s hard work but it’s so incredibly exciting! To wake up every morning excited about going to work, to get to share your passion with others. There’s nothing like it. If you have dream and I can help in mentoring you to your goal – then get in touch. It’s always a joy to support other entrepreneurs on their pathway, it’s a part of my business that I love.
Thank you all so much for your support on my journey. Every print sale, every commission, every photoshoot means a lot. I have the best customers! Your support has meant the world to me. I wouldn’t be here without you all. Thank you.
Laura x
