Name: Emily Wear
Business: Tile and Wear
How did you first develop a passion for what you do?
I’ve always been good at DIY, even as a child I could be found in my grandfather’s shed using an old fashioned drill and chisel. It has never occurred to me that it’s something a lot of women wouldn’t necessarily do. But now I’ve set up my business, I’ve found it can be a real advantage.
What were you doing before?
I’ve been concentrating on raising my two lovely daughters (now 10 and 13) and have worked part time in the school they where at.
What gave you the courage to step out and do your own thing?
I wasn’t getting enough job satisfaction and was finding working to other people’s set hours was too limiting for my lifestyle. So I decided to do a professional tiling course and just go for it!
What have been some of the struggles along the way?
At first, it was a real worry that I just wouldn’t get any jobs, but I’ve found a niche market of people who prefer having a woman in their house, and that seems to be working for me.
What do you love about what you do?
The best thing about my job is being able to choose my own hours. It’s so great to be able to be at home for my kids whilst still working. It’s also great to meet new people and be challenged each week as every job is different.
What’s made you feel proud of what you have achieved?
I’m really proud of the fact I’ve created my own business, on my own, from nothing, and for being a strong role model for my daughters.
What would you say to another woman contemplating doing her own thing?
Go for it!! The sense of achievement and feeling of self control and self confidence is priceless.
