Client:
Flicker Handmade by Lisa
Programme:
Cumbria Accelerator: Business Support Programme
Business Advisor :
Donna Dacre, Cumbria Accelerator
When Lisa Mathers first discovered holistic therapies almost 30 years ago, she never imagined it would eventually lead to her own successful retail and workshop business in the heart of Barrow.
After completing a holistic therapy course following the birth of her daughter, Lisa became fascinated by the power of natural ingredients and essential oils. Over the years, she built extensive experience helping others through holistic treatments, before going on to own and run her own optical practice for 13 years.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Lisa decided to return to her passion for handmade products and wellbeing. What began as creating bath bombs, candles and soaps for friends and family soon developed into a growing business, supported by local markets and community events.
In 2022, Lisa relocated to Barrow and took on a market stall. When plans for the town's market redevelopment changed, she made the bold decision to move into her own high street premises. Today, customers can browse a range of handmade bath, body and home fragrance products that are vegan-friendly, cruelty-free and made with care.
Flicker Handmade by Lisa is now much more than a retail shop. Lisa has successfully expanded into creative workshops and experiences for children, families and adults. From bath bomb making and perfume workshops to seasonal craft events, demand continues to grow, with some sessions selling out within days of being advertised.
Support from the Cumbria Accelerator Programme
Lisa has been working with the Cumbria Accelerator Programme to explore opportunities for future growth. During a recent business support session, discussions focused on profitability, pricing, valuing time appropriately, and identifying opportunities to further develop the workshop side of the business.
"Working with Donna has helped me think differently about my business and identify new opportunities. The support has given me more confidence to focus on growing the business and planning my next steps."
As part of ongoing support, Lisa will continue to work with the Cumbria Accelerator Programme over the coming months. Following the initial support session, a tailored Growth Canvas and growth plan will be developed to identify key opportunities and priorities for the business. Together, these will provide a framework for future support sessions, helping Lisa focus on practical actions that support sustainable growth and build on the success of Flicker Handmade by Lisa.
Looking ahead
With a loyal customer base, a growing workshop programme and a unique personal story behind the business, Lisa is well positioned for future success.
Her passion for helping people, creativity and commitment to quality are at the heart of everything she does, and it's clear that Flicker Handmade by Lisa has become an important part of Barrow's independent business community.
Get in touch
If you'd like support to start, grow or strengthen your business, get in touch with the Cumbria Accelerator team to find out how we can help.
