Rachael McLean, business owner of Sweet Peacock, 22.

Overview of your business:

Sweet Peacock Ltd offers handmade and fairtrade soap and body care products for the discerning ethical shopper. Sweet Peacock's artisan soaps are handmade with pure essential oils and infused with reiki healing energy - there’s something for every skin type - we also offer bespoke wedding favour soaps. Yonjai Spa products are fairtrade from the Suanplu women's cooperative in Thailand. Konjac Sponges are handmade in Korea from pure vegetable fibre and natural minerals; these are wonderfully beneficial to the skin. None of our products or ingredients are ever tested on animals or fragranced synthetically.

So how and when did it all begin?

I started up in December 2009 from home in Glasgow, after I learned a new skill.

What made you give it a bash?

Long story... I was off work recovering from a road traffic accident which happened in May 2008. I was injured in the crash and my younger brother died. Whilst in recovery I was forcibly resigned from my job at the Abbey call centre. This meant I had to then claim incapacity benefit.

When I started to feel stronger I accepted an invitation to visit the home of a family friend, where I was taught how to make glycerine soaps. I was handed down some equipment and materials and took it up as a hobby. I had spare time to fill so I researched online. Eventually I decided that, although I wasn’t yet feeling able to go out and apply for a new job, maybe I could work from home. That's when I approached the Business Gateway on Buchannan Street.

How did you get started?

The Business Gateway helped me to understand what a business plan was and put me on a few workshops about tax, book-keeping, starting up etc. I then went to Enterprise Mentoring and finalised a business plan, with which I approached The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust to acquire funding for my business idea.

Background in entrepreneurship?

None whatsoever!

Related Training/Education?

Again, none. I even failed higher accounts in secondary school. I really didn’t plan to be an entrepreneur.

Support you utilised?

The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) has given me the most valuable support along the way.

Difference this made to your journey at beginning and as developed?

My journey with PSYBT began when I approached the Glasgow Office with my business plan. The girls there helped me to refine the document and coached me before I approached the funding panel. When I was awarded my requested test marketing grant and start up loan I was over the moon!

They have stuck with me ever since - firstly providing a comprehensive book keeping course, then a mentor or "aftercare advisor" to be my sounding board and guide through the first two years in business. They have also helped me to link up with other young business people, for networking and resourcing. I have never met a more supportive crowd of people and couldn’t have made it to this point without them.

What role(s) do you adopt within the business?

Director and all staff roles! I run things; design/make/buy, package and sell the products, secure accounts with retailers, facilitate stalls at events, research and development, maintain the website and social profile, and manage the bank account and so on...

Where did the company name come from?

There is a stained glass peacock on the door to my mother’s house where I started my business from. It is also the house where my brother and I grew up together. The name Sweet Peacock is a kind of nostalgic nod to these things.

Where do you see yourself and the company in 5 years time?

Following the current course it’s on, I hope to be developing and manufacturing products full time for a big retail client. I hope to have created jobs, secured premises, and to be making a reasonable living for myself.

Who/What inspires you?

I take my inspiration from many aspects of life... mainly people and nature. Most of my handmade soaps were created out of a concept which merged a personal need with colour therapy and aromatherapy. I take heart in observing people from all walks of life who work hard to create a better life for themselves and their families, and people who persevere through life's struggles. I’m inspired by the everyday people who stand up for things they believe in, who exercise their morals. I’m inspired too by the great wealth of remedies offered by nature.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The ability to provide something that a person needs (i.e. someone with sensitive skin has a particular daily need) or to create something that adds a special touch to an important occasion (i.e. bespoke wedding favours made to order). The opportunity to support good causes in my daily working activities, i.e. promoting fairtrade products or supplying to a retailer with altruistic motivation (supporting charities etc). Meeting new people all the time and hearing their stories.

High points?

Finishing a perfect batch of soaps always makes me smile. Little things like tying bows in ribbons, just as much as big things like securing an account are good feelings. Also, Sweet Peacock won best website at the BT e-entrepreneur awards last year that was a fantastic boost! I also got to meet Prince Charles and Camilla at Royal Charities Day with PSYBT this year talk about Sweet Peacock on STVs The Hour! Camilla bought one of my Fairtrade Salt Scrubs!

Favourite product in range?

The Konjac Sponge, newest addition to the family and the most incredible product I have come across to date. More information on website.

Challenges in starting your own business?

Keeping positive and motivated - its hard doing everything yourself. Spending money wisely - be mindful of costs - eventually you'll learn what’s worth investing in.

Top tips for budding entrepreneurs?

Get in touch with PSYBT or the next best thing you can get access to. Don’t go it completely alone - they provide such an invaluable support system. Also, believe in your dream and your reasons for doing what you do. Maintain a positive outlook, and always take criticism constructively.

Top tips for those seeking work?

Don’t limit yourself or your potential. Aim high!