Turning A Hobby Into A Business

Ann Herbert

Necessity was the mother of invention for single mum of three, Ann Herbert. She decided to turn her hobby into business after being made redundant from a well-paid job in marketing.

She has always loved painting and had recently bought a large format digital printer, which she occasionally hired out to artist friends for 'pin money'. News of Ann's service spread, and eventually she turned it into a full-time business 'Photoartistry Ltd'.

Two years later, the experience has made Ann look at her passion for art in a different light. "I don't think it has taken the fun out of it. It's my brainchild, it's what I do. I have the freedom to determine the direction I go in . . . the scary thing is, I have to make a living out of it!"

Ann's tip: Seek independent advice, "It is easy to go to friends, but they will often tell you what you want to hear. Look for a mentor, someone who can give you objective advice. Talk to people who have already done it, if you can."