In this article I interview the business owner of adibainteriors, who sells unique Moroccan furniture and gifts to discover what it takes to launch a business from home, I discover her story behind starting her business as well as her top tips for success.
My first question to Mrs Lazraq is "Why did you decide to start your business?" She explains to me that she was actually a customer for the gifts she now sells “I saw them in a mall when I was visiting home (Morocco) and really liked them for how unique they were and what a nice gift they would make, I thought to myself I would like to see these in the UK."
After receiving encouragement from her husband and sisters when sharing the idea, Mrs Lazraq found her current supplier at an exhibition in Casablanca the October of 2017.
Next, I ask "What are your biggest achivements since starting just a little over a year ago?" Mrs Lazraq responds by saying "landing my biggest order yet with Pattiserie Patchi (London) was definitely an achievement for me as seeing my products at one of my favourite restaurants felt really rewarding”.
I asked Mrs Lazraq how she networked to find her customers, I participate in many bazaars around London the latest one took place in the Nadi Park royal (picture 3), I also hosted my own cultural event with some friends in October which had over 150 visitor’s." Mrs Lazraq explains that although her social media platforms have helped her network, she says "I prefer the direct interaction with my customers that I can get in bazaars as well as the atmosphere of small businesses coming together."
"Have you experienced any downsides since starting your business from home?, "I have." she replies, “time management can get tricky... I’m a mum of four you know so balancing that with managing social media, business phone calls along with organising bazaars can get difficult to balance!"
Mrs Lazraq kindly agreed to share 6 top tips for anyone looking to also start a busienss from home:
1) Don’t be shy! Be ready to talk to people and make links and contacts as this is how get recommended and grow.
2) Don’t expect success straight away it takes time, patience, hard-work and determination!
3) It might be tempting but don't spend profits to treat yourself, re-invest in your business!
4) Start a business in something you are passionate about, or have a good skills set for.
5) If you really want your business to thrive you have to make yourself known online, set up a social media account and get a website.
6) A good phone camera and some sunlight can go a long way, it can save you money hiring a photographer.
Find updates on adibainteriors new products and upcoming cultural bazaar taking place in January on instagram: @adibainteriors and facebook: @Adibainteriors.
