Got a fashion-forward little one? Looking for the perfect gift for a small person? New NE1 business, The Simply Small Co. is the place to be - specialising in lovely things for little ones.
Local mum, Natalie Sullivan from Hebburn is the brains behind the business, inspired to start up The Simply Small Co. after struggling to find unique and personal clothing and gifts for her own kids Samuel, 7 and Sally, 3.
Natalie, who is a former marketing manager for English Heritage explains: “When I had my son, my love of shopping for myself was transferred to shopping for baby and toddler things. I soon found that if I wanted something a little bit different or extra special, I really struggled to find things that didn’t have a designer price tag to match.
When my daughter came along, my passion for shopping was amplified! I like to buy things that are classically designed but also practical and affordable. It was then that I started to think seriously about developing my own children’s brand. I like my children to look nice, but also not having to worry that they might wreck expensive clothing. The motto of the business is ‘let them be little’ and I’ve worked hard to source a range of clothing, toys, nursery furnishings and gifts that are classic, affordable and fun!”
Natalie started her business online in 2016 with the help of Transmit Start Ups who mentored her through a business plan and start up loan. She initially ran it from home while still working and also regularly traded at markets and pop up shops around the North East including the famous Newcastle Quayside Market.
It was on the Quayside where she received lots of great feedback from customers, many saying that she should open her own shop. When the opportunity came up to apply for a unit in the Grainger Market, Natalie grabbed the chance. She left her job and decided to take the plunge into full time entrepreneurship.
"The Grainger Market is such an interesting, diverse and historic place," says Natalie.
"I've learned a thing or two while I've been cleaning and painting! In recent years the market has developed with lots of new and exciting food and retail businesses opening up to compliment the traditional market traders.
"There's a real sense of community in the market and it's an exciting place to be right now."
You'll find this little kiddies fashion boutique in the Grainger Market. It's affordable and it's fun - check it out!
