Why did you choose to start your own luxury business?
Having started my career in luxury 5-star hotels in Australia, gave me a solid understanding and the training needed to appreciate what is needed to run a luxury business. I have always had an entrepreneurial drive having set up numerous serviced businesses – however it was my absolute love and passion for flowers which gave my the drive to start Wildabout with my floral husband Andrew Devonport. Flowers are an art form, it’s not always glamorous, you need resilience, dedication and a genuine love for what you do!
What is it about British luxury that means new, female-led brands thrive?
British luxury is about excellence, intricate attention to detail, always evolving with creativity. Women can combine strength with intuition, enterprise with passion, creativity with empathy. We adapt well to change, are very people orientated and like to create inclusive working environments. With our drive we are always willing to keep learning and evolving yet still confident enough to share our knowledge.
Tell us about the women that inspired you on your journey?
I look up to women like Jo Malone – coming from a council estate struggling with dyslexia to building a global perfume empire sold to Estee Lauder….to then follow through and re-invent with her new brand Jo Loves. Hard work, determination, passion and reinvention are key.
What advice would you give to the next generation of female founders looking to set up their own brands?
My advice to women setting up their own business would be – believe in yourself, stand strong, take educated risks and don’t be scared of failure. We all have had failure, the key to success is to learn from it, pick yourself up and keep striving. You will get there!
I work hard to inspire my daughter to give her the confidence that she can do the same – the world is her oyster!
www.wildabout.co.uk
