Amy Lindsay studied Fine Art at Northumbria University and became frustrated with the lack of opportunities in her chosen sector when she finished her degree.
Unable to find work Amy approached Five Lamps in October 2011 to discuss the possibility of starting her own creative business.
As a skilled artist and calligrapher Amy had often looked at wedding stationery and felt she could use her talents to produce higher quality designs at a more affordable price. When the Five Lamps Enterprise Team saw samples of her designs they quickly agreed with her.
With no previous business experience Amy needed guidance with the practical aspects of setting up and running her own business, Amy also needed financial help to purchase materials and equipment. During her business planning with Five Lamps Amy learnt lots of new skills, her creative talent shone through and she developed an excellent advertising and promotion strategy, including a national advertising campaign with Perfect Wedding.
Amy said
”I can’t thanks Five Lamps enough for what they did to help me in setting up my business. They were always on hand to offer guidance, advice, encouragement and even networking opportunities. I felt my mentor Carol Sanderson went above and beyond to help me make the most of the resources that were available to me and I knew she was always a phone call away if I was struggling with anything. Being self employed can be a very isolating experience and I found having someone to talk to one on one on a weekly basis absolutely invaluable. I love being able to do something I feel plays to my strengths and talents everyday and I feel like I am constantly learning new skills and achieving things I didn’t think I was capable of”
Amy started trading in April 2012 and her business has gone from strength to strength, she is now a preferred supplier to prestigious Wynyard Hall. You can find out more about Amy’s designs at www.yarmcalligraphy.co.uk or find her on facebook.