Q. How many years has your business been trading?

A. 15 years

Q. How would you describe your business? What services or products do you offer?

A. Modiste is a contemporary womenswear boutique. We source brands that you don’t see everywhere and that offer something different to the run of the mill. We sell clothing, jewellery, bags and accessories. We also provide a bespoke and alteration service.

Q. Why did you start your business? Whats your favourite thing about being an owner?

A. I’ve always liked fashion and started the business originally with a partner, but it didn’t work out so I bought her out. Having the freedom to be able to put my stamp on the business.

Q. Describe what a day in your business looks like. What routines do you follow each day?

A. My primary task is to ensure that all the stock is arranged and displayed in an appealing manner. If necessary, I replace any items that are missing or need replenishing. I also take care of general cleaning duties when needed. Additionally, I assist customers visiting the shop, providing varying levels of help depending on their requirements. Once I become familiar with a customer’s body shape and personal style, I can suggest suitable outfits for them. Some days I dedicated to sewing, this is when I need uninterrupted focus to complete my tasks. These tasks may include simple alterations, more complex modifications, or creating custom-made garments from scratch.

Q. What makes your business unique?

A. Probably that I am able to alter garments for them to look better, once they’ve tried them on.

Q. What’s the biggest piece of advice you have for people interested in starting up an independent business like yours?

A. Attend as many trade shows as possible in order to discover your personal style. With countless brands available, you have the opportunity to curate a unique and distinctive look. Open your store at the beginning of a season and ensure that all your purchasing decisions are made well in advance.

Q. Tell us something we may not know about your business and its offering.

A. I would say that one of the lesser-known aspects of my services is that I provide alterations and offer bespoke options. Many people are still unaware of this. Additionally, I actively participate in charity fashion shows twice a year. These events not only showcase the available stock but also serve as opportunities to raise funds for charitable causes.

Q. Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.

A. I had the incredible opportunity to appear on the ‘Oxford Road Show’ in Manchester, where I participated in a segment alongside other Siouxsie Sioux lookalikes. We discussed the iconic Siouxsie Sioux on camera, and later, I was fortunate enough to meet her in person while watching the show playback.

Q. What is the best thing about the location of your business? why did you choose the Village Square?

A. I choose Bramhall as my preferred location due to my familiarity with the area from my childhood. After exploring several options within Bramhall, I ultimately settled on the Village Square as it offered the most suitable unit for my business and aligned with my goals and aspirations.