Redundancy — then dreams came true

KAREN Hamilton is a classic example of following your dreams.

She first got her hands on a needle and thread when she was only five — but, 40 years later, after the blow of redundancy, she’s swiftly establishing a highly-regarded clothing and alterations business.

Karen has always had an interest in dressmaking but it was always just a hobby.

“Three years ago I was made redundant from my desk job and thought: ‘well what do I do now?’

“With the children growing up I realised this was the opportunity to do my own thing.

“I signed up at Dundee & Angus College for an National Qualification in Textiles and followed that with an HNC and then an HND.”

Karen, who lives in Ardler, had the skills and motivation, next came the business “incubator” space at Enterprise D&A.

This is a facility at Dundee and Angus College which fosters people starting up their own businesses, with benefits from mentoring in fields such as business, finance and selling.

She also signed-up for the Coca Cola 5by20 programme – a new scheme which aims to get five million women into their own business by 2020.

This led to an intense week-long workshop of advice and guidance as skills alone are not enough to operate a business. The support given by Enterprise D&A and Coca Cola 5by20, enabled Karen to establish her business.

“By this time, I was getting work thanks to word of mouth,” said Karen.

“I do alterations and bespoke tailoring projects, creating everything from holy communion to evening dresses, suits, wedding dresses and bridal wear.

“Now work is under way to create a website and spread the word even more.”

“When I became redundant, I saw it as a new opportunity and wish I had done this years ago.

“I’m loving the work because I am creating garments for my customers for an event or special occasion.

“I enable them to get exactly what they want and allow them to wear clothing that makes them as unique as their event. “If you have a passion then pursue it. “There are people who can help you develop your skills and there are chances to get the qualification.”

They always say, get a job you love and you’ll never work another day in your life.

It seems Karen’s doing just that.