Julia Lawson

If Julia Lawson is not teaching school children then she is usually behind the counter at the Clock Stop Café. Being a part-time teacher, the cafe is the culmination of Julia’s efforts to fully occupy her time away from school, also achieving a lifetime’s ambition to run her own catering business.

This is Julia Lawson’s story…

1. Why did you want to start your own business?

   The opportunity to start my own business came at the right time. I wanted to cut my teaching hours so that I could spend more time doing things that I enjoy. The property that I wanted to use for my own business came on the market and I felt ready to start up my own business

2. What was the deciding factor for you?

   The availability of the property that I wanted. It was perfectly located and I felt it was the right time to do something different. I have worked for many people for many years and I wanted to start something myself.

3. How did you get the business off the ground?

   I received some financial help from the Enterprise Team to purchase a brand new security shutter for the café. All I can say is that it takes a lot of hard work to get a business going.

4. Best bits about working for yourself?

   I get a lot of self-satisfaction providing a great service to my customers. As a part-time teacher, it helps to keep me occupied when I’m not at school, though I’m usually serving the children if I’m not teaching them! The new business also helps to provide additional income to pay the bills, which is always a good thing.

5. What have been the biggest challenges so far?

   I would have to say getting customers through the door and providing a competitive service. There is always going to be competition in any business but sometimes that’s good, you just need to make sure that you’re providing a superior service so that customers will come back to you.

6. What would you have done differently if you could go back?

   Nothing really, because everything that’s happened so far has gone well. The premises, the support and the confidence to set up my own business all came at the right time and I’m really pleased with how things are turning out.

7. How does it feel to be your own boss?

   It’s very rewarding, though it can be stressful at times. With the business still at an early stage there are hills to climb and bridges to cross. We’re constantly trying new things and gradually building a clientele. However, the good news is that we’re always receiving positive feedback which reassures me that I made the right decision.

8. A piece of advice for those thinking about starting up?

   Look into everything before you put plans into action and make sure you are fully aware of what you’re getting into. Be prepared to give 100 percent because it’s not always easy and although there are really good times, there are equally bad ones. .

Top