Pretty Things: Businesswoman living the dream with South Shields store

Kate Richardson, 23, is living her dream after setting up Pretty Things at Mill Dam in South Shields in November 2014.

And as Kate explained, the venture is a hobby which has turned into a great success.

It’s going well and her hope is to eventually expand into a string of shops.

And there’s more good news as her business has been nominated in the Best Shopping Experience category of the WOW247 awards, run by the Shields Gazette and its sister paper the Sunderland Echo.

One nomination said: “Fantastic products. Quick service. Very helpful and friendly staff 10/10.”

Another added: “Always warmly welcomed, a variety of items, bespoke items and the willingness to source specific products.”

And a third said: “The shop is full of beautiful things for your home. Kate was really friendly and very helpful.”

Delighted Kate said: “I am overwhelmed to be nominated. It is my first venture into business and it was hard to grasp business life at first but I am really enjoying it.”

The unique home furnishings venture is “something a little bit different,” said Kate who went into business straight after leaving Northumbria University where she studied psychology.

She said: “I have a real passion for home interiors. It was my hobby when I was at uni and I have turned it into a full-time job.”

We want to find the best in South Tyneside and Wearside’s arts, culture, hospitality and leisure scene.

Nominations can be sent in until Monday’s deadline. After that, judges will draw up a shortlist in each category.

This year, the competition is backed by UK Asbestos Specialists (UKasl), The Marsden Grotto Private Beach and Downey’s Fish and Chip Restaurant in Roker and Seaham. The Best Western Roker Hotel will host the finale of our competition – held in association with our weekly entertainments guide, Wow 24/7 - on Thursday, February 25. To nominate, visit www.jpne-events.co.uk