Ilona Biggins
How long have you been in business?
20 years plus a few to many to count.
Do you have a company by-line?
"Specialist in Semi Precious Beads and Pearls."
What brought you into the business?
Started off as a designer Jeweler back in the eighties and then branched out into pearls first and then 20 years ago into semi precious beads.
Have you noticed many changes over the years?
Yes, in the last 5-10 the beads have taken off.
What stands out as the best part of running your business?
Traveling and sourcing the beads and successfully finding clients special and if not unusual requests.
What’s the worst?
The early starts and setting up for a show.
Is there anything you’d do differently if you could do it again?
No
What do you hope to achieve in the next 10 years?
Continuing trading successfully
Do you have a memorable funny (business) story?
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What are your favourite crystals?
Don’t have a favorite crystal as such, but by favorite bead would agate. It is so versatile.
What do you look for in a customer?
Someone who knows what they want and like.
How do you source your stock?
All my stock is hand picked by myself or my daughter, Harriet.
What preparation do you do for a show?
The list is endless, but mainly stocking up from the last show and loading the van.
As an experienced exhibitor what advice would you want to share with others?
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Tel/Fax: 01923 282998 www.ilonabiggins.co.uk
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