Business This is only just the beginning for Chloe
This week we hear from one of the current InCube businesses, Chloe Nalwoga. Chloe designs wallpaper and wall coverings for people’s homes. She’s one of the recent intake of InCube businesses. The project is by Renfrewshire Council and developed by Invest in Renfrewshire and supports creative businesses by providing free practical advice across areas including ecommerce, social media, website set-up, and self-development. Over the last four years, the programme has supported 50 talented entrepreneurs in the area working across retail, fashion, textiles, jewellery and crafting.
What does your business do?
I design luxurious digital and handmade wall-coverings that tell a story of their own. The wallpapers tell stories and change and elevate the way people feel and view their spaces. The business provides a bespoke design service to help customers create unique patterns. Designs and colourways which suit their interior style and requirements.
What are you most proud of when it comes to your company?
I am most proud of the fact that it is in my own name. My surname is a form of identity. I was born in Uganda and a surname is used to identify who you are and what clan you are from.
So, to me, my company is part of my identity. I am also proud of the fact that I can share my feelings, emotions and thoughts that I couldn’t share with words in the designs.
What do you find most enjoyable in day-to-day business life?
I truly love designing new wallpaper designs and coming up with new ideas for collections.
What are your ambitions for the future?
I want to become a successful designer who has a voice of her own within the industry. I want to produce more and more products that better the lives of people by improving how they view spaces around them, and create beautifully designed wallpapers that
tell a story.
RENFREWSHIRE GOES TO WORK
How has the business changed over the years?
The business is in its early months but I know that it is going to grow. The clientele is growing and the business is finding a place of its own within the market.
What are your top three priorities? Good customer service, high quality products that are designed and made with care and business transparency and honesty.
Can you offer three tips to new-start businesses?
Have the courage and believe in what you want to do. It only takes one step. Also, there are so many grants and programs available so make use of them. And finally, make as many connections as you can.
Why is Renfrewshire a great place to run a business?
Renfrewshire is growing and developing. Many small businesses are being formed in the area. There is so much potential for small businesses and upcoming businesses.
Has anything weird or wonderful happened in your working life?
Yes. In February I showcased my collection at the Surface Design Show in London. I was one of the new talents that showcased their collections this year. I was so honoured to receive the New Talent Award for 2019. I didn’t expect at all. This really boosted my confidence.
What is the main thing you have learned since being involved in the business?
I have learnt perseverance and discipline. Things wont always go the way I expect them to, but I have to persevere through it and know what my aim and goal is at the end of the day. Discipline is essential within a business. No one is watching over you so you have to be disciplined with how you manage your time and finances.