When Six Small Business Dreams Become One Reality!

‘I wake up with a new idea and new dreams every day, and I follow that dream, as they say’ - Dolly Parton

Well I think it is safe to say that when it comes to blogging I have every good intention in keeping on top of it, but then finding the actual time to do it becomes almost impossible as a small business owner! This is something that I am going to schedule time for in 2024 so that I can sit down at the computer and keep you updated on all things Lavender Line Photography, but until then here is a quick roundup of all things LLP in Autumn 2023…

A lovely first time trip to Rathlin Island, a fabulous 4 days (should have been 5 but that is a whole other post) in the beautiful city of Copenhagen, a new print series coming very soon, and a beautiful Pop Up Shop that myself and 5 other small business friends have created together to make for an unforgettable shopping experience this holiday season!

I will talk more about Rathlin and Copenhagen in separate blog posts, along with the new series of work, but this post is dedicated to our beautiful The Portview Pop Up!

The Portview Pop Up, a must-visit this holiday season!

When six small business dreams become one reality!

I think I can speak for most small business owners right now in saying that this year has been one of the toughest years when it comes to business and selling work.  Shopping habits and spendings have changed (my own included) and for the first time it has left me a little unsure of what the future may hold.  I am very much a ‘day by day’ kind of gal and so thinking ahead can make me feel a little uncomfortable and uneasy, but I do know that things need to change come the new year, and with that means adapting the business once again to suit current climates and situations.

It was these sorts of small business chats with my lovely Portview Crew that lead to the discussions of possibly teaming up together this Christmas to create something magical, and so during a very casual Monday morning business breakfast catch-up our Portview Pop Up was born!

The Portview Pop Up is a collaborative venture between myself and five other small business friends located in Portview Trade Centre, our mission: to offer an unforgettable shopping experience while helping to promote the importance of small business and supporting local.

From Photography to Faux Flowers, Vegan Hair Care to Watercolour Prints and Jewellery to Storytelling Gifts With Purpose…. there is a little something for everyone this Christmas!  So, if you are in the Belfast area this November and December then be sure to pop into The Portview Pop Up, we are open every Thursday - Sunday! Not only have we come together as 6 very different businesses, we have also given the opportunity to 8 other small business owners to showcase their talents with our Small Business Saturdays and Sundays, meaning The Portview Pop Up is the perfect place to browse and shop with its ever-changing format!

 
 

Be sure to pop in and say hi this holiday season, and if you can’t unfortunately make it then be sure to check out the links to each fab business below :

Innocent Chaos

Jude Fenton Art

Lavender Line Photography

Monday’s Child

Storybox

Studio A114

More photographs and videos from our lovely Pop Up to follow very soon!

A little more information from our press release :

The historic Portview Trade Centre, once a pioneering spinning mill from the early 1900s and celebrated for its progressive employment of women and blend of traditional craftsmanship with innovative technologies.

Rachel McIlgorm, founder of Storybox NI CIC said, “The collaboration aims to demonstrate the resilience and creativity of the local business community while providing a tailored shopping experience for all.  By supporting local enterprises, visitors and customers can not only find one-of-a-kind treasures but also play a vital role in bolstering their neighbourhood’s economic well-being.

Lynette Murray of Studio A114 said, “When 6 business women put their heads together they create brilliance.  A Christmas Pop Up has been put together so beautifully to showcase how you can shop small and support local businesses this Christmas.”

Welcoming Winter Wonderings

“Winter is not a season, it's a celebration” - Anamika Mishra

I can’t believe that we are into mid-November already! It’s been a busy few weeks at Lavender Line HQ and getting ready for Christmas at the studio! If you follow @LavenderLinePhotography on Instagram you will have seen that the decorations are well underway and will be available for purchase very soon!  I have also been working on a winter print series which means you will soon be able to add some of your favourite locations in a winter style to your home decor!

Below is a sneak peek of some winter scenes coming to Lavender Line Photography next week!

‘Amsterdam Nights’ - Coming Soon

‘A Radio City Christmas’ - Coming Soon

‘Winter Wanderings’ - Coming Soon

There is also a very special Limited Edition Winter print ready and waiting for its new home! ‘In The Air’ was taken on a flight back from a magical trip to Stockholm and captures my first Scandinavian sunset.

There are just 5 available for purchase and a special coupon code below to make for the perfect gift this Christmas, don’t miss out!

‘In The Air (Somewhere Over Stockholm)’ - 16x12” Limited Edition Print