When Cheryl started selling scarves online from her kitchen table, she never imagined her business would grow into a cherished part of the local community. Specialising in scarves, accessories, and now a broad range of clothing and shoes, Pretty Swish is more than just a shop—it’s a community hub. Here’s how it all began and how Cheryl built a business that puts people first.
How it started
The journey began in an unlikely place: a market in Spain. Inspired by the universal appeal of scarves, Cheryl filled her suitcase with them and set up shop on eBay. The response was overwhelming. Orders poured in, and by Christmas, her family home was bursting at the seams with inventory and post office sacks filled with orders.
Success on eBay led to market stalls, fairs, and eventually, a small shop on the high street in Ripley. “We started adding more products—handbags, jewellery—and everywhere we went, we just seemed to do well. We just grew and grew,” she recalls. Soon, the shop became too small to hold their ever-expanding inventory.
The first lockdown could have been a setback, but Cheryl turned it into an opportunity. With government funding support, Pretty Swish moved to a bigger location and embraced new ways of reaching customers, from live videos to home deliveries. The move wasn’t just about growth; it was about being there for the community when they needed it most.
The heart of the community
For Pretty Swish, it’s not just about sales; it’s about people. The closure of Ripley’s historic department store brought a wave of loyal customers to their shop, many of whom were seeking more than just shoes or handbags—they were looking for connection. Pretty Swish stepped up, offering familiar brands, a loyalty program, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The sense of community they’ve built is what makes the hard work worthwhile. Customers come in not just to shop but to chat, share stories, and feel part of something. For Cheryl, their trust and loyalty are priceless. She’s not just running a business; she’s creating a space where people feel valued.
And now, with growing demand for footwear, Pretty Swish is taking an exciting new step: opening a second shop dedicated entirely to shoes just across the street. It’s a testament to their ability to adapt, grow, and serve their community’s needs.
How Capital on Tap supports Pretty Swish
Running a growing business comes with financial challenges, especially when dealing with inventory that requires planning months in advance. For Pretty Swish, the Capital on Tap Business Credit Card has been a game-changer.
With its generous credit limit and intuitive app, the card has simplified managing cash flow. It allows Cheryl to make large upfront payments for clothing and shoes without the stress of depleting funds needed for other essential stock. Regular alerts and clear payment schedules give her peace of mind, ensuring she can focus on serving her customers rather than worrying about finances.
At Capital on Tap, we’re proud to support businesses like Pretty Swish—helping entrepreneurs focus on what they do best: supporting communities and delivering exceptional experiences to their customers. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding into new opportunities, our business credit card is here to make running your business simpler, smoother, and more rewarding. Find out how we can help your business thrive.
