Liz Devine-Wright

Liz Devine-Wright, Simply Devine,
http://www.simplydevine.co.uk

Name: Liz Devine-Wright
Business name: Simply Devine
www.simplydevine.co.uk

Tell us about your business or position:

Simply Devine came to life in 2004 as a specialist hat shop nestled between Leeds and York situated at 83 York Road in Tadcaster, from where owners Liz and Joy sends hats and fascinators worldwide, and ladies drive 300 miles to visit for wedding and race headwear.

Thereafter followed their in-store Pashmina by Simply Devine brand which launched to the trade at the Moda Show in 2009.

Founder Liz Devine-Wright wanted to start a premium label producing colourful, quality pashminas in luxury yarns, silk and cashmere at competitive prices. She spent approx. 7 years developing the quality of the brand in her quest to supply quality pashminas.

Keeping it in the family, the brand has stockists in the UK, Ireland, Australia and Sweden. Simply Devine constantly update and refresh colours and products for each season. Current colours that are bang on-trend for the coming season are Lime, Dusk Pink and Cadbury Purple. The Simply Devine poncho is as popular as ever because they are versatile and one size fits all with pashminas being of a generous size too.

The brand has been working on a new clothing range which is currently being tested in the marketplace from the Simply Devine boutique. The Simply Devine dress is so versatile it can be worn on the beach, with leggings, with stockings and high heels, not to mention as a tunic with trousers in the office. “All our dresses are hand made and can be made to bespoke sizes”, says Liz.

What achievement in your career/business are you most proud of?

It was a totally new career move. If I can do it, so can you! I am proud of Simply Devine and the challenges I have been faced with.

Three top networking tips:

• Network with Forward Ladies
• If you want like-minded friends ... join Forward Ladies
• Just be yourself

Three top business/career progression tips:

• Aim to be the best at what you do
• Don't look at what the opposition is doing (they could be doing things wrong)!
• uild a solid foundation (even if it takes time)

Favourite book/film/piece of music 

Woman of Substance - I could watch and read it over and over again! I want to be the next Emma.

Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet and why? 

My Nanna - she was an amazing baker and was known in the locality for her baking skills.

What important lesson has life taught you?

Don't continue in a mundane job where you are unhappy - GET OUT!

Your thoughts on the future of the economy 

It can only get better!

What benefit have you or your business gained by being a Forward Ladies member? 

I've met so many friends and because everybody has different skills and businesses there is nobody ready to stab you in the back.

Exclusive offer to members:  

Receive a £5.00 discount off any handbag until the end of August 2011. www.simplydevine.co.uk