Email to a FriendTo celebrate International Women's Day 2022 we are shining a light on our fabulous members and their stories.
Each and every single one of them has an inspiring story about starting their own business. So read on to find out more.
Victoria Cozens, owner of Perky Blenders
What first drew you to starting your business?
I think from an early age I was drawn to having my own business, and it was a dream that never really left me.
When I look back now, getting my own chickens in my parents back garden and selling the eggs to save up and buy a sewing machine was just the start.
I didn't take up Chicken Farming or start a Sewing business but I think the thrill of producing and selling something is powerful I went on to have a career in IT with a break in between when I got the amazing opportunity to work on a family-owned flower farm on St Martins in the Isles of Scilly.
I learned so much and the experience of being part of a family business was inspiring. The opportunity to really start something came when I moved with my husband to Waltham Forest, in London. We arrived there feeling a buzz in the community, a new movement was happening and we knew we wanted to be part of that and we started to look at ideas of what that might be. The rise in Specialty Coffee in London was happening and we were able to take a part in this, build a locally loved brand into a nationally known coffee subscription service.
What is the best thing about being your own boss?
The best thing is knowing that you employ and empower others to be part of our business. It is so rewarding to have others join the journey and input to it as well. Also, it has given me the flexibility to bring up my family alongside working, it has by no means been easy but I have felt I have always been here for my boys and family.
What's your advice to other women going into business?
Take learnings and experience from all your past roles or endeavours and apply them to your new venture. Understand that you will never stop learning and it is ok to make mistakes.
There are many resources to help but ultimately it is the biggest learning curve of your life. Grab the opportunity and follow your heart with a backup plan.
What is your top tip for success?
Networking! It's so important to meet up with others and share experiences.
You really never know who you might meet and what it could lead to with your business. It has been hugely important to me and where we are today.
Tell us something about yourself we might not expect?
I started my own wedding flower business in my twenties and have made all the bridal bouquets for close friends and family.
I didn't drink coffee or hot drinks until I was in my thirties!