TWO self employed people whose work disappeared during the pandemic have launched new businesses in lockdown.
Nathan Clays, from Hartford, ran a speciality coffee company and travelled to music festivals and events throughout the country.
The 27-year-old suddenly saw his income drop drastically when Covid regulations stopped live performances.
Undeterred, he decided to open a new company selling top quality house outdoor plants and garden accessories.
Greens Houseplants sprang into life in October and is already taking off.
"I've always loved plants so I made a business out of my hobby," said Nathan. "I've collected house plants for a long time so instead of doing nothing I decided to cheer up people's houses.
"There was nothing round here that specialised solely in plants. I can get rare and unusual plants. I import them all from Holland."
Setting up a business in lockdown was a challenge but he is determined to succeed.
Nathan plans to open a shop in Cuddington
"It has not been an easy ride but I have had a good reception," said Nathan. "People have responded very well. I've had loads of requests for big palms and Yuccas. People say their houses look bare after taking all their Christmas decorations."
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To begin with, Nathan has created a beautiful display of plants in a unit but he is already planning to expand.
"I'm hoping to move into a shop in Cuddington in February," he said. "Hopefully in the future I will have a coffee and plant shop. My ultimate aim is to get a cafe which also sells plants."
Barnton mum Rachael Acton ran her own ironing business and was unable to work in the first lockdown.
The 29-year-old decided to start a home accessories and gift business from her home.
Rachael Acton with daughter Mia, seven, and partner Josh Perry
In May last year, with partner Josh Perry, the couple launched Ivy Gift Company and haven't looked back.
"It has been amazing," said Rachael. "We thought it was a fabulous opportunity to start something. We didn't have anything to lose.
Ivy Gift Company offers a range of home accessories and gifts
"The majority of our sales have been local to Northwich.
"We expected it to take a year to build up but it's been great."
Everything from vases and picture frames to tea light holders, cushions and wicker baskets are supplied.
Most of their customers live in Northwich
"We had been saving up for a holiday with my daughter to Disneyland and couldn't do that," said Rachael. "So we decided to put our holiday savings into this and it has really paid off.
"Hopefully we can go away next year for longer."
To contact Nathan call 07710 151219 or visit greenshouseplants.co.uk
To contact Rachael visit ivygiftcompany.co.uk
Both businesses offer free local delivery.
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