West Stanton
West Stanton’s mission is to create a shopping destination for parents who love individual design, who are looking for something a bit different from what you can buy on the High Street or in more traditional online stores. West Stanton sell ‘small items’ that are big on style, whether that’s monochrome stimulating prints or minimalist styling; a beautifully designed wooden toy or printed blanket.
An interview with West Stanton
What is your professional background?
Oh wow where to start! I’ve tried on many hats: celebrity stylist, copywriter, PR Manager, Social Media and prior to launching West Stanton I was Head of Press and Marketing at a luxury handbag brand.
How did West Stanton come about?
West Stanton was officially born in 2016, although I hadn’t done much with it until 2019. When I went onto maternity leave with my firstborn, I sort of started the business because I wanted nice things for him that were hard to come by. Once I had them, my friends wanted them too so I made a little online shop.
Where did the name West Stanton come from?
When I started the business it was out of our little flat with zero storage, so half the stock was kept at my in-laws (West Lodge) and the other half at my parents (Old Stantons).
When did you open your shop doors?
I first had a taster of retailing in 2019 when we got a tiny spot within a shop at The Medicine Garden in Cobham. After a year we had the joys of lockdown and the shop closed. They then sold the entire site so I had to find something else. The business had grown so much that it seemed sensible, even during covid times, to find my own shop! And I’m so glad I did! It’s about 3 minutes from our home and close to Jasper’s school too so pretty perfect.
What can we expect from West Stanton in the future?
What’s been your biggest achievement so far, professionally?
Ahh that’s a really hard one to answer. I’ve worked on some amazing projects throughout my career, from fashion weeks to sell out collaborations and charity work. I think for West Stanton it would be when I was featured in The Sunday Telegraph as one of the 50 UK brands going above and beyond. That was such a pleasant surprise.
We are big fans of your clothing range.. can you give us any teasers about what’s coming?
I just got my samples today and I’m hoping to steal Lara for the shoot! What can I say… it’s fruity!
What do you enjoy doing the most as a small business?
I enjoy the freedom to do what I want to do. Yes its SO hard, and the hours are long. It can be so stressful but also it is so rewarding and a real passion. I love buying things for the store. I really do. I love finding new brands, merchandising them in the store and seeing how they look alongside the rest of the shop. I also love being able to speak to customers face to face and building relationships with them.
What one thing would you rather not do as a small business?
Finances! Not my strong point at all. I really struggle with ‘grown up’ business decisions and now the business has grown so much I need to become an expert in things I’ve never done before. So yes, that’s a challenge.
What piece of advice would you give to anyone starting a business?
Good luck! Haha! I think people see businesses on Instagram and think it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 – but it’s really not. Be prepared to take it slow, put in the work, stay in your own lane – DO NOT COPY.
If you could have a superpower for the day what would it be?
To be invisible
Describe your personality in 3 words?
Charming, chatty, casual
Are you having anymore children?
No more in the plan – the idea of being outnumbered scares me!
Are you having anymore children?
No more in the plan – the idea of being outnumbered scares me!
Best advice anyone has ever given you?
You can do anything, if you put your mind to it.
Favourite place you’ve travelled?
Cadaques in Spain – my favourite place in the world
The nicest person you’ve ever met?
My bestie Ciara
Sweet or savoury?
Sweet
Top thing on your bucket list when we get out of lockdown?
I desperately want a holiday – even a staycation. Just to get out of Surrey!
What is your biggest inspiration?
West Stanton
Smithbrook Kilns, Cranleigh GU6 8JJ, UK
