Store Spotlight: Regine from Classic Inspirations Homeware

In view of National Entrepreneur’s day, we spoke to Regine of Classic Inspirations Homeware in Fulham about her journey to entrepreneurship and any obstacles she faced along the way.

Hi, Regine! Tell me a little bit about you and your business.

Working in the fashion industry from an early age, I discovered my creative talent and after a period of training catwalk models I became interested in architecture and interior design and studied to become an accredited interior designer.

In 2018 I lived in Vietnam and during this time I was inspired by the beautiful Asian silks and linens and created the fashion line, Classic Inspirations using these beautiful fabrics.

When lockdown forced me to return to the UK I decided to rebrand and create the Classic Inspirations Home Ware Range. This incorporates the Asian fabrics I shipped back from Vietnam. I now concentrate on sourcing sustainable fabrics, end of lines and re-using/up-cycling fabrics wherever possible to create an exciting and individual range of cushions, table linens and aprons.

I also take on commissions and have created bespoke aprons for a range of businesses including cafes, hairdressers and Maid in Chelsea.

That sounds really good! Have you faced any challenges along the way?

Lockdown has created enormous problems for small businesses. This year and last we have not made a profit. My personal challenge as a one girl band is the marketing. I am a creative and find social media and internet marketing extremely time consuming and difficult, which is why signing up to Online High Street is such a positive for businesses like mine. I am really looking forward to my products being photographed and these being marketed on Online High Street’s platforms!

That’s great to hear! What are your goals for yourself and Classic Inspirations?

My aim is to move to Portugal. I have already looked at the market and my Homeware range fits perfectly into the lifestyle there. I love my business and it keeps me focused.

Lastly, do you have any advice to anyone thinking to start up their own business?

Keep positive, and believe in yourself!

Thank you Regine! You can support Classic Inspirations by purchasing their products from Online High Street.