In our ‘Inspiring small businesses’ series, we share and celebrate great stories from small business owners who started and run their own business. By bringing you closer to these inspiring businesses we hope that you find motivation, tips, and ideas for building yours. Next up, we had the pleasure of speaking to Sophie Bainbridge, Owner and Founder of Stanley Biggs Clothiers a heritage clothing brand.

Stanley Biggs Clothiers is a gentleman’s heritage clothing brand, located in the heart of England. The Biggs Collection, unashamedly inspired by the past, captures the spirit of the icons who epitomised the bygone era of the early 20th century. Tradition and quality flows through the very heart of the Stanley Biggs brand and style; bringing together the finest in British manufacturing, textiles and design. The result; timeless, sustainable and versatile clothing, made to the highest quality that will stand the test of time.

What's the story behind your business?

Our story starts in 1919, When Stanley Douglas Biggs was born in London. During the Second World War, he served as a an orderly in 181 Airlanding Field Ambulance, Royal Army Medical Corps; an Airlanding Unit that took part in the Battle of Arnhem during Operation Market Garden in September 1944. Tragically, he succumbed to his wounds on 25th September 1944 and is now buried in Oosterbeek Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery. The store will bear his name to ensure that he, and his comrades, are not forgotten.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I have always worked. Like any other 14 year old, I had a weekend job. But unlike my peers, who worked for pocket money, I had to work to support my single mother and younger sister. My wages went straight into the pot to pay for bills, food or petrol. It was a harsh reality and for someone fiercely independent and proactive, it was a tough pill to swallow. But it only made me more determined. I didn’t like the idea of being beholden to others.

At various stages I have always been surrounded by powerful female role models. My mother, my aunt, my surrogate mum, but also my first boss. I was her first ever employee and played a part in her achieving her lifelong her dream of setting up her own business. It was being part of her plan that encouraged me to never abandon my ambition.

I had fantastic teachers, who instilled and encouraged me to belief that I would achieve and should achieve anything I put my mind to. Of course, having and talking about your hopes and dreams is easy compared to making them a reality. Real life often comes crashing around you, creating barriers between your dreams and making them reality. You often forget that fearlessness, that belief that ‘I can do anything I want’ – I certainly did.

When I founded Stanley Biggs Clothiers I was 32. My colleagues and friends thought it was a rash and quick decision, with me leaving four weeks after I had ‘chucked in the towel’. But in all honesty, it was a decision that was a long time coming… the 14 year old me would be very proud that I had finally done it.

What is the most difficult aspect of running your own business?

Stability and Belief. Whatever the business, you must have stability and belief.

Stability comes from all the leg work and hard work. Knowledge of your industry, your products, your business, your customers. This is never-ending. If you think you have mastered it, you have to start again to ensure you remain stable.

Belief in yourself more specifically. Belief that your hard work will pay off. Belief to keep moving forwards, to not be afraid to question yourself and challenge yourself. To be your own constructive critic and your own personal motivator. You have to be all things to yourself and the energy required to do that is exhausting! Keeping up those positive and proactive levels are where the magic happens though.

What is the best thing about running your own business?

That the best thing about running your own business is also the worst thing about running your own business!

Your independence.

How has your business been affected by coronavirus and how have you adapted?

We had our first birthday on 4th April 2020. We had been working and building momentum for the year ahead – we were just getting into our stride when the lockdown happened.

Along with our factories closing, so stock being limited, the biggest impact has got to be our marketing content. Being an online business, we also rely heavily on photographic content to spread the word about our business. The lockdown put a stop to a lot of the marketing and advertising campaigns we had scheduled. This has perhaps been where we have had to adapt the most – so instead of organising photoshoots, we took the approach of asking our customer base for content, as well as reaching out to influencers and sending them complimentary products to photograph.

It has enriched the brand and widened its reach. We also have some new partnership and collaborations that probably would not have happened if circumstances were different.

 What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own business?

Anyone can start a business, but only a few will make a success of it… Completely believe in yourself and what you can achieve. Wake up each morning and give yourself a motivational kick start to the day. Tell yourself how amazing and brave you are – because it is true! Embrace the risk and the fear – this will help you to keep focussed and moving forwards.

Research – knowledge is power. It is your business, you are the expert. What you don’t know, find out. You will be empowered by learning more and your confidence will grow with that knowledge. When creating your business brand, logo and website, imagine it in 5 years time and compare it to the big guns. You don’t want to revisit your branding too soon because you have outgrown it.

Be prepared to face some of the biggest negativity from your close circle and family… people don’t like change (and worse, they don’t like those who force change). Those closest to you will probably find it hardest to see you in your different role. Don’t be afraid to seek help and guidance. Play to your strengths but be sensible. It isn’t wrong or bad to employ professionals to help you achieve your vision. You can’t take over the world by yourself!

To find out more about Stanley Biggs Clothiers visit their website or follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.