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New vintage furniture startup launches in Sunderland

A vintage furniture shop has opened its doors on new premises in Fulwell, Sunderland, following help from the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC).

Elizabeth Lillie took redundancy from the council, where she’d worked since she was 17 years old. after seeing a niche in the market for selling vintage furniture with a modern twist.

Elizabeth visited the North East BIC and Vintage Lillie became established, owner Elizabeth said: “I visited the BIC because I’d never ran a business before and was unsure what would be involved but Janice helped me with every step of the way. She was so supportive and guided me through the business plan and other aspects required to being your own boss.”

Janice added: “It is fantastic to see Elizabeth settled into her premises. The shop looks absolutely amazing and I am so pleased that all of her hard work has paid off.”

And it seems Elizabeth’s achievements are yet to sink in, “I still can’t believe we have our very own shop and having all elements under one roof is brilliant; the main showroom, a room for painting and storage as well as a room for painting workshops which will be coming soon.

“The main focus of the business is selling reworked furniture and other interesting pieces. The reworked pieces undergo a total overhaul and everyone in the family has an input.”

Indeed Elizabeth’s family have been instrumental in helping out. Elizabeth continued: “My daughter Alex works quite closely on suggesting colours that I wouldn’t have thought would work but sure enough those pieces sell too, it really is a family collaboration. Most of my stock is sourced through auctions and I am always on the lookout for interesting pieces.

“I am also working with local businesses and stocking some of their crafts in the shop too. I’ll give anyone a chance.

“It feels amazing to be my own boss it takes hard work, communication and above all else dedication, I think about the shop day and night but because it’s a passion it doesn’t feel like work.

“Fulwell is bustling with great footfall and although the business only opened last week we have been inundated with customers and support from local residents which is very encouraging. Thank you again to Janice for all the BIC’s help.”

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