December 15, 2014
Sally Oulton, Coastal Vintage
At a Glance
Bio The path that led her to this point
For over a decade I worked as a chef on board private sailing yachts.
The job was an incredible adventure sailing all over the world and a wonderful experience cooking for a wide range of people including a few well-known guests.
In 2007, while based on a yacht in the Caribbean, I decided it was time to come home and do something different.
I met my partner online a few days after that decision and moved to Brisbane to be with him.
The next three years I developed a fair trade toy company specialising in education.
The business grew fast and I learned so many invaluable lessons from that business, but it really wasn't my passion.
I sold it in 2011 when my eldest daughter was 6-months old.
It was a time to enjoy spending time being a mother.
However, by the time my 2nd daughter was 6-months old, I was ready to create a new business that was part-time and that I could work around my daughters.
But the hard decision was what sort of business?
During all those years after I left the sailing industry, I still yearned for the sea and wanted to do something that could involve the passion that I have for boats and the ocean.
I wanted those memories of sailing around the world and being out at sea in my home.
That's when I saw a gap in the market.
There are many beautiful coastal home decor shops and lots of antique shops but no one was specialising in coastal vintage type wares online.
That was the light bulb moment for me.
So now, I spend my free time finding those gorgeous & unique coastal vintage items in old ship yards, sheds, from the sea, off beaches, swap meets, markets, from old salty sea dogs, and homes of other lovers of the sea.
They are found here in Noosa, other parts of Australia and through old friends living across the oceans.
The business has grown beyond my expectations and I absolutely love what I do.
I love that I can run a business a few days a week and enjoy the rest of my time with my girls while they are still toddlers.
Finding that balance will always be a challenge but one that I work very hard at trying to achieve.
Q&A Insider advice & tips
What's been your greatest achievement to date?
Having a strong client base - customers returning to buy more and meeting my customers that love the beautiful old things that I do!
It is such a thrill when customers thank me for their orders. I always write a personal note when dispatching orders. Sometimes include a gift to those that keep returning over & over.
What's been your biggest challenge so far?
Gathering momentum with two children at home when they are not at daycare and having more time to work on the business. However, I know that time will come when my girls start school. I treasure this time that we have together now.
Best lesson you've learned along the way?
Learning to take photos of products. Taking the time to establish the business. I didn't rush into it. I spent six-months building up stock, social media pages and website before I launched.
If I was to start again, I would learn more about photography. I want to improve my styling and photos and that will come with time and experience.
A website, book or resource that has helped you in your business or inspired you and why?
Instagram & Facebook! I'm absolutely grateful for these social media resources.
I have met so many amazing people. It allows me to showcase my wares directly to people that are interested in coastal vintage. They have chosen to follow because that is what they are interested in.
Which person or brand do you most admire and why?
There are so many that I admire on Instagram. I love reading home style/coastal blogs & following others that are in similar business or have similar interest. They give me great ideas and great inspiration.
What advice would you give someone starting an independent business in your industry?
Have a point of difference.
Finish this sentence
Everything changed for me when…
When I started meeting my customers through social media. I couldn't believe I could meet so many fabulous people who have similar interests. They give me great confidence in my business. In my previous business I never experienced such positive energy. Sadly, it was a competition amongst other businesses in the same field.
In the world of social media, I have made such wonderful friends that have similar businesses in either the coastal decor or vintage field, and we help & support each other. It is just brilliant!
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