I think it is fair to say that the world of sewing and art, is very much part of my ancestry.
As far as back as 1913 one of my grandfathers attended Art School while 3 of my great aunts were very accomplished seamstresses. One became a tailor and the other two worked for the company that undertook the beadwork on the Princess of Wales Wedding dress!
As a child I loved any sort of creative needlework. At sixteen I visited my Aunts’ place of work, located behind Tottenham Court Road and was offered a job there and then. However I decided to play it safe, stay at school and complete my A levels. My teachers also recognized my talents and encouraged me to attend the Royal School of Needlework, but at that time I couldn’t think how this would aid a career!!!! (little did I know)
My father ran his own Estate Agents business Cracknells in Watford and thought I should go straight into the world of work. On finding an advert in the local paper for a trainee Motor Underwriter with the Prudential I began an 18 year career within the Insurance Industry, culminating in a Sales and Marketing role with Allianz Cornhill. A far cry from soft furnishings and sewing, this initial career path encompassed my love of cars whilst providing a valuable business foundation in preparation for running my own company.
During this period I maintained my interest in sewing and was busy making cushions, blinds and curtains for home, family and friends. Realizing that I wanted my own business and benefit from the flexibility of a career with raising a family, I began to attend courses to equip myself with the necessary professional skills required for a soft furnishing company.
When my son went to school it seemed the perfect time to make the permanent switch from the world of Insurance to Soft Furniture Entrepreneur. The final decision was made when an opportunity was presented to purchase an existing business based in Shefford whose owner had just retired. Some 14 years ago Panache Interiors was born and I have not looked back since!
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