Small business boutique is set to open in Padiham in June

VSMS Small Business Boutique is set to open on Tuesday, June 4, at 3 Central Buildings.

Emma Buckman, who co-owns the business with her husband Paul, describes it as a “real-life Etsy-style shop, full of independent small businesses”.

Emma and Paul Buckman are set to open VSMS Small Business Boutique in Padiham (Image: Emma Buckman)

She said: “Our shop is solely full of small independent businesses. It's an Aladdin's cave, a real-life Etsy-style shop.

“Nothing is mass produced. Many small businesses couldn't open a shop for themselves, due to financial and time constraints so this gives them a chance to get their products out there.”

The business started online as a virtual shopping market, which the couple started in lockdown to help small businesses.

Emma, 47, said: “We initially started online to help people make some extra money in lockdown.

“When we came out of lockdown we needed to offer small businesses something more so we did a three-month pop-up shop in a shopping centre, selling items on behalf of stockists.

“We hosted three further pop-ups and sold over £100,000 of stock on behalf of the small businesses we worked with – which was a lot considering the price of items started at £1.”

VSMS Small Business Boutique is set to take over a former tattoo and art studio (Image: Emma Buckman)

Emma said the aim of the new shop, which has taken over a former tattoo and art studio, is to shine a spotlight on small businesses.

She said: “Our aim is to help small businesses – to help get them seen, help them build their businesses, help them grow confidence, and offer training and advice.”

Emma said many “hidden gem” items will be found at the boutique once it opens.

“There are so many gems to be found including homemade fudge, handmade children's clothes, home décor, handmade resin items, crocheted makes and much more.

“We're super passionate about the work we do. Small businesses need our support now more than ever.”