Lighting firm helps shines spotlight on young trader

A decorative lighting business that began life on Yorkshire’s markets is marking its 30th anniversary by helping champion the next generation of independent traders.

Paper Starlights was founded in Yorkshire in 1996, building the business through face-to-face trading at markets and events, including the Dark Arches in Leeds.

Now based in Chesterfield, the company is drawing on those roots as it continues its support for Richmond young trader Harriett Wilson, who runs Northern Star at markets and events across the North of England.

The partnership is now in its second year, with Harriett developing her own independent trading calendar while gaining practical experience of running a market-based business.

Over the past year, she has joined the National Market Traders Federation network and developed skills spanning stock planning and merchandising to customer service and event trading.

Her 2026 calendar includes events across North Yorkshire, County Durham and the wider North East, with appearances at Raby Castle, Richmond Marketplace, Beamish Hall, Wynyard Hall and Harewood House, as well as Durham Christmas Festival.

Harriett has also been offered a university place to study marketing, allowing her to build on the commercial experience gained through Northern Star with academic study.

For Paper Starlights, supporting her progression provides a link between its own beginnings and its 30th anniversary, while highlighting the role markets can continue to play in helping young entrepreneurs develop their ideas and learn first-hand about running a business.

Becky Wood, head of digital and operations at Paper Starlights, said: “Our 30th anniversary has naturally made us look back at how Paper Starlights grew, and markets are a huge part of that story. 

“What feels especially positive is being able to use some of that experience to support somebody at the beginning of her own journey.

“Harriett has taken the opportunity and really made it her own. 

“She is learning what sells, planning stock, speaking to organisers, building relationships with customers and growing her own programme of events. 

“The fact that she is now going on to study marketing feels like a lovely next chapter.”

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