A CANDLE and gift business is set to expand just two years after it was set up - almost by accident!

A closing down sale at a home and garden furniture superstore was the catalyst for Sarah Lord, 36, to set up Izzie Lizzie's two years ago.

Now Sarah's got a £25,000-a-year turnover company and is expanding into the world of weddings.

Sarah, of Curven Edge, said: "Lancashire Homes and Garden in Haslingden was shutting and it wasauctioning off stock.

"My husband Andrew had gone down to have a look round and came back with two carloads of scented candles.

"He'd paid £450 for them but we found they were worth something closer to £5,000 if we were to sell them at recommended retail prices."

Sarah tried various selling ideas but now she goes to house parties and company canteens, which has been a great success.

Nearly 70 per cent of her business is from repeat sales.

Now Sarah is setting up a new side to the business - supplying table decorations and favours for weddings.

She said: "I have been asked by a couple of friends to find items for their weddings and they have gone down really well.

"They've told their friends and it has snowballed, so, I have decided to make it part of the service.

"I have sourced a lot of beautiful little table decorations that will be ideal for the big day."

Sarah, who also holds fund-raising parties, has also developed a website which means she gets sales from all over the country.

Izzie Lizzie's was named after the couple's daughter Isabelle Lizzie and it has become a real family affair.

Sarah said: "When I set up, I had been working in banks for most of my life and I had been looking for a job which could fit around bringing up three young children.

"So, when Andrew brought home the candles I just decided to take the plunge.

"I didn't know much about candles or running my own company, but working for myself meant I could pick and choose my hours.

"At first I thought What on earth have I done?' But, looking back, it has been the best thing I could do."