Home, Garden, Outdoor Living Products And Gifts For Special Occations

When I was asked to write 750 words about my business, Swings & Pretty Things I wasn't sure I would be able to, 750 seems rather alot. Upon voicing my worries it provided much laughter to those that know me - most people said "Ha 750 words didn't know you could say anything in as little as 750 words"...

So here we go, a story of sorts, about my business...

I started Swings & Pretty Things in June 2008 after deciding I wanted to do something but not really sure what. I drove my husband insane with different ideas until he suggested, with a patient smile, that I write a list. So I did - the list consisted of all random things I either liked doing or thought I might like to try... horse riding, reading, gardening, eating chocolate, drinking wine, going out for dinner, owning a children's shoe shop. I then thought that an internet business would be just the thing and before long I had a list of things I thought might sell - all based on garden and outdoor living, I figured it had to be something I loved if it was going to take up a lot of time.

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It was in 2007 whilst on maternity leave with my first daughter that I first thought seriously about setting up my own business.  Sure, in the past I’d often wondered what it must be like to work for yourself but the usual day to day responsibilities like paying the mortgage and the bills made it seem impossible to leave my job as an HR manager.

However, as I had already financially planned for the year’s maternity leave I thought ‘Why not? It’s now or never’.  I also knew that there were major changes happening at my work as well and that there was a possibility that I might be able to negotiate an exit from the business on mutually agreeable terms.  After some discussion with my manager I left on great terms and with some much needed extra cash in my pocket.