Online jeweller aids new designers (From The Northern Echo)

Online jeweller aids new designers

8:27am Saturday 3rd January 2009

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A CEREBRAL palsy sufferer who started her own online jewellery business after struggling to find work, is using the site as a free showcase for the region’s upcoming designers.

Karen Khan, 34, set up beadsandbling.

co.uk after believing her disability was holding her back from finding a job.

The business, established in November, sells jewellery and bags online.

And Ms Khan has established a separate area on the site to promote new talent from the region.

She does not make a profit from these sales, but feels it is important to showcase their talents.

She said: “Beads and Bling is committed to supporting new North-East and North Yorkshire talent and we’ll be featuring some great designers over the coming months.

“The Designer Showcase gives new jewellery designers a gallery to show their pieces.”

Ms Khan previously worked for The Northern Echo for five years as an internet assistant, then left to work for a disability arts project in Newcastle.

But after that ceased, she found it difficult to find other work.

Ms Khan, who lives in County Durham with her husband, decided to go into business for herself out of frustration in her job hunt.

She said: “I wanted the venture to reflect something I really enjoy. I love finding different jewellery designs, an original piece of jewellery is kind of like a piece of art.

“But more than that, I think if you look good you feel good and your confidence soars.”

She started the business after a Google search put her in touch with the Pinetree Trust. which guides disabled people into self employment.

From there, she made contact with Business Link, Be Enterprising and East Durham Business Service (EDBS).

The network of agencies worked with Ms Khan to start her business.

Katie Kiddle, marketing advisor with EDBS, said: “Karen developed the idea for Beadsand Bling as she wanted to start a business she would be passionate about and that would allow her to vary her working hours and physical activity.

“Karen loves jewellery and shopping and believes that if you combine the right piece of jewellery with the right outfit it can make your confidence rocket.”

Ms Khan, 34, described the business support she has received as fantastic. She hopes to grow the business and branch out into ethically sourced and eco-friendly products.

EDBS provides free advice and support to businesses in the district, as well as coaches who provide business start up advice. It can be contacted on 0191-586-3366 or edbs.co.uk

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