Lou’s Ironing
In the next few “Meet the…” articles, I’ll be extending my “meets” with local businesses to those that don’t have a shop front. Although their presence on our High Street is absent, their money certainly isn’t – did you know that, for every £1 spent in small/medium sized businesses, 63p stays in the local economy?
Ruddington is abundant with self-employed business-folk, especially within the parenting community. With the lack of affordable childcare and flexible working hours, many parents have chosen to become their own boss, on their own terms.
This certainly applies to local mum, Lou Beeby. Mother to three boys, Lou built up a fantastic reputation with her successful local cleaning business. Unfortunately, she recently broke a leg during a walk, which means she can’t do any cleaning work for a while.
Not one to be daunted, she promptly established Lou’s Ironing. And it didn’t take long for her skills in this area to become known (not only is she good, she’s quick!) Over-stretched parents no longer have to spend their free time ironing, especially with Lou’s rates. Her introductory offer of ironing 25 items for just £15 would personally take me 50% of my Saturday and 100% of my patience.
I met up with Lou and asked her some questions to see how she’s getting on with her new venture.
Q: How are you adjusting to your new business and how is your leg?
A: I can get around on my leg now, but obviously I can’t clean like I did before and I have a long recovery time ahead. I already ironed as part of my cleaning job, so focusing on Lou’s Ironing seemed like the best way to continue work. This way I can keep interacting with my customers, some of whom have become good friends.
Q: So, do you really enjoy ironing?
A: I think I’m the only person I know who enjoys ironing! I have OCD tendencies, so I love nothing more than to keep things straight and orderly. My favourite item to iron is a dress shirt; I love the clean lines of a finished product.
Q: Do you watch TV whilst ironing?
A: No, I like to see what I’m doing. However, I do listen to podcasts.
Q; Do you share cleaning or ironing chores at home?
A: We do share it as my husband also likes to clean. However, I do the ironing and he does the bins.
Q: What do you like to do in Ruddington?
A: I loan a horse at Leys Farm Equestrian and my family loves the outdoors. The Country Park is a favourite destination and we all like to keep fit and healthy. We often finish up at The Frame Breakers, which is a great family pub.
Q: Can you tell us anything else about your business?
A: Apart from the introductory offer you mentioned, I also offer a free-pick up and collection service and always aim for next day delivery. I’m building up my social media profile (search for “Lou’s Ironing” on Facebook), but if you want your ironing sorted, just call or text 07792 271 403 and Lou’s Ironing will get it all done for you.
Thanks Lou!
Sarah Godfrey