Blooming in business

Omagh florist proves it's never too late to bloom in business

The winter may be drawing in fast, but Judith Kempston, proud owner of 'Floral Temptations' in Omagh, is proving that it's never too late in the year for a new business to blossom.

With the support of Invest Northern Ireland's Go for it programme, Judith, who has more than 14 years of experience as a florist, is out on her own.

"It's something I have always wanted to do," said Judith. "I've spent most of my career as a florist, gaining experience and steadily building up a customer base.

"I've had jobs in the leisure and tourism industry and considered those as a career path in the past. I have also worked in the civil service and as a hotel receptionist, but I always kept coming back to my love of floristry. Setting up on my own was the natural thing to do."

Despite the economic climate, Judith said sales have been rising steadily since she opened in March.

"I've not been open all that long, and I'm delighted to say that I've more than 40 weddings booked in already! I also supply to several local undertakers, schools, hairdressers and offices with their floral needs. Orders from my regular customers have also been much better than expected.

"I think a lot of this is down to being good with customers, giving them exactly what they want at a price they want."

But before Judith put her name to the lease, she signed herself up for the Go for it programme, which she said provided her with the kick-start she needed to put the business on a sound footing.

"I had been thinking about doing this for so long but I only had half a business plan drawn up. The programme provided me with all the practical advice I needed – from marketing to accounts – and, thankfully, it meant I was able to finish off that business plan properly!"

"The programme really helped me believe in myself and it was great for networking – I now know that I can achieve anything I want."

So has starting a business made any difference her life?

"Absolutely," laughs Judith. "There is absolutely no time for any housework! Seriously though, I'm much happier. I get up every morning happy to be going to work. It's tiring of course, but I know I'm on the right track to building a successful business. It's been well worth all the effort."

The Go for it Programme is provided by Invest Northern Ireland and is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund. For details, log on to www.goforitni.com.