Partner Article

Monkeying around with baby clothes business

A school nurse, inspired by a fruitless search for original baby clothing, set up an online children’s clothing business with the help of Business Link.

Melanie Smith, of Crook, County Durham, decided that she would provide an alternative to the high street by launching www.themonkeyspyjamas.com, an e-commerce website selling an original range of babies and children’s clothing, gifts and accessories.

Melanie said: “When my brother’s daughter was born I was disappointed that I couldn’t find original, fun clothing for her. A lot of people rely on the high street and end up making similar purchases. I knew there must be something more original out there, but didn’t know where to find it.

“Setting up a business can be daunting, complicated and time consuming. I was working and studying at the time and I wasn’t sure if I could manage setting up a business too. I was also nervous about cash flow and taxation. Business Link helped me identify what I wanted to do. They put me in touch with a company to set up the website and helped me source and apply for financial support towards the cost of setting up the website.

Launched in February, the website can be used to purchase a range of British made clothes, toys and accessories by brands such as Inch Blue, Bob and Blossom and No Added Sugar. Melanie plans to extend her business by sourcing unique items from America and Australia.

She also wants to continue the relationship she has begun with Business Link and intends on seeking advice on marketing and advertising The Monkeys Pyjamas.

Stephanie Campbell, Business Link account manager, said: “Melanie had the ideas, she just didn’t know how to get started. In addition to helping her focus, we also advised Melanie on effective time management, ensuring that she was able to launch her business while working full time.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .