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Name: Sonia Mundey

Business: Yellow Book Interiors Ltd

Website: www.yellowbookinteriors.co.uk

Social media: www.facebook.com/pages/Yellow-Book-Interiors-Ltd/111090695681888

Sonia Mundey’s business journey began in 2011, shortly after her son’s first birthday.

“I had worked in the interior design business for five years, working with private clients, as well as show home and hotel refurbishment projects, but had wanted to work for myself for some time.”

After completing a degree in History of Art at Birkbeck, University of London, Sonia began to seriously consider working for herself. She loved the idea of combining her love of interior design with her knowledge of art history and creating something amazing. Shortly after, interior design business Yellow Book Interiors was born. She hasn’t looked back since!

When looking for her business name, Sonia was inspired by The Yellow Book, a cultural quarterly published in the 1890s that was renowned for highlighting beautiful art and the creative energy of the age.

“Our outlook is firmly 21st century, but just like the original Yellow Book we’re always looking for beautiful ways to brighten everyday life.”

Yellow Book Interiors’ first customer came through word of mouth.

“A family friend who is a builder and developer got in touch and asked me to refurbish his Grade II listed cottage near Blandford, Dorset, which was a great start to the business.”

Since then, Sonia has promoted the business through her website, as well using social media and local advertising.

“We are a part of Home Welcome packs which are given to people who have just moved house in the Bournemouth/Poole/New Forest area.”

Promotional postcards and word of mouth also help Sonia to get the word out about her business.

Yellow Book Interiors is run solely by Sonia but she has started to develop a strong network of reliable trades and suppliers.

“Working with local trades and suppliers has proved to be a very worthwhile experience. As well as helping to support local businesses it has also meant that I can negotiate better terms and discounts with them. By meeting with people face-to-face you can foster a much better relationship and have far better bargaining power with them. You can also share your knowledge and expertise much more personally than just dealing with companies over the phone. Modern technology is wonderful but there is no substitute for human contact!”

Following a very successful first year in business, Sonia has big plans for the next 12 months.

“I’d like to develop relationships with local estate agents, and I hope to offer a home-styling service for people who are looking to sell their homes at the best possible price.”