After working in the banking industry for 20 years Elaine Craven was unexpectedly made redundant.

But, far from sitting at home with her head in her hands, she embraced the opportunity it presented.

“Running my own business had always been a dream of mine, and this me gave the chance to pursue it,” she says.

Elaine has always had a passion for clothes. “I've always been a keen follower of fashion and always enjoyed shopping for something different to that on the high street.”

So she went ahead. “I did my research - I Googled everything I didn't know, including how to build a website, and took it one day at a time.”

Coming up with a name wasn’t easy. “I had a book in which I wrote down all my ideas,” she says. “I wanted to stay away from the familiar boutique and wanted something different and original. I started in a spare bedroom at home, so My Tiny Closet represented my situation perfectly.”

Elaine’s business specialises in one size clothing, “which can be oversized for one, and a perfect fit for another. I cater for sizes 12- to 24. Our plus-size clothing is extremely popular - it has definitely filled a gap in the market.”

Her range of clothing is range is eye-catching and stylish. “I believe the market is limited for some people, especially if you are looking for independent and alternative fashion rather than a high street brand. I spent a lot of time visiting suppliers to ensure I could provide good quality items - items I would buy myself,” she says.

Elaine has a website and also uses social media to promote her business. “I attend and host regular local events as well as offering private and public parties, either in a customer’s home or at a venue of their choice. This is now proving popular again.”

She has built up a regular customer base, with people seeking out her wares. “I’m very lucky in that my five star reviews have helped me establish a loyal customer base. Some of my customers visit me each time new stock arrives.”

Last December Elaine expanded to a home range. “Our clothing lines have been so well received I decided to expand our brand to include home decor and accessories. It's going well, I'm excited to see what 2022 brings for our home range.”

She adds: “Every time I receive a delivery I still get excited - when you are creating an item for sale, you are bringing the item to life. And yes, most of it ends up in my wardrobe!”

Elaine’s daughter Beth has been a part of the business since day one. “She regularly works in the background maintaining my social media accounts. In the lead up to Christmas, she played a more active role attending events and fulfilling customer deliveries.”

Elaine loves running her own business. “Customer service is so important to me. I believe in going the extra mile for every customer. I work very hard to ensure I maintain my five star rating. I have had some wonderful reviews.

“Also, I like having the freedom to make my own decisions. It's hard work and very long hours, but I wouldn't change it.”

“I have lots of ideas to develop My Tiny Closet further, but for now I am just concentrating on building my brand and maintaining the reputation I have built.”

*Elaine is hosting a My Tiny Closet party on Thursday February 17 from 5-8pm at The Royal Oak, Stony Lane, Eccleshill, Bradford BD2 2HL.

*mytinycloset.co.uk