In the words of Beyoncé, “Who runs the world? GIRLS!” This International Women’s Day, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the amazing woman-owned independent businesses right here in the heart of Leicester!
You might be surprised to learn just how many incredible woman-owned independent businesses Leicester city centre is home to. Here are the inspiring stories of four remarkable women who own businesses in our city centre:
Meet Gill, the friendly face behind Button Boutique in the Malcolm Arcade. It all began when Gill’s Dad started selling haberdasheries on the market in Leicester and around Leicestershire in 1968. He then opened the shop in the late 1980s and since then it has been a huge part of Gill’s life.
She began working in the shop from a young age every Saturday until she finished university, when she and her sister took on the boutique full time. Due to illness, Gill’s sister could no longer continue working in the shop, so around 3 years ago, she took over the whole operation on her own.
Since then, she has been the sole owner and runs it, with help from various members of my family, like her son, ever since. Gill says, “Although it is really hard work, I love what I do and would never do anything else”.
Gill also takes the boutique on the road and has a stall every Thursday on Loughborough market.
If you’re in search of a craft shop that sells a huge variety of haberdashery and craft materials, then this is your one-stop shop!
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Meet Dimple, the founder of City Laser and Skin Clinic on Loseby Lane. The clinic was founded 10 years ago with the belief that everyone should have access to the best treatment technology and expertise at affordable prices.
Since then, they have created an environment in the clinic that welcomes everyone and ensures excellence. They understand that everyone has their insecurities and want to ensure that you leave feeling like your best self! Dimple says, “When you choose us, you choose a clinic that cares for you.”
City Laser offers the latest hair removal, body and skin treatments. All treatment information can be found on their website, or if you prefer, speak to the friendly and knowledgeable team and they will be more than happy to help you.
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Meet Hannah a Bikram teacher, studio owner (and forever student!), PR consultant and one of the most empowering women we have ever met! Bikram Yoga Leicester is a female-owned independent yoga studio located in the cultural quarter of the city.
Bikram is a world-famous sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises conducted in 40 degrees centigrade and we are so lucky to have the practice available in our city, with certified teachers.
Since becoming hooked in 2008 after being inspired by her tutor, Libby Nockles who ran classes in the original Bikram studio on Friar Lane, Hannah has been on quite the journey. 10 years later it was time to make it official and Hannah went on a Bikram teacher training course in Acapulco, Mexico for nine weeks.
Hannah says “As Deputy Managing Director of a busy marketing agency it was a huge step to take that much time out of work but becoming a Bikram teacher and being able to keep this incredible practice alive in Leicester has been the greatest blessing. “
This led Hannah to open her own studio in September 2023 on Rutland Street after the original Bikram Yoga studio in the city closed back in 2019.
Now 18 months old the studio is thriving, and so is Hannah! “It’s certainly not easy running two businesses but I am grateful every time I stand on the podium and look at the people in front of me, who’ve entrusted me with their time and money, for how Bikram Yoga has empowered me to be strong and always determined to try.”
Bikram Yoga isn’t for the fainthearted but we can assure you it is worth a try for the feeling you get after completing a class. If anyone can help you conquer your own mind then Hannah will!
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Meet Pam Kaur Coratannai, the resilient and creative force behind Leicester’s little wonderland, Cocco and Delilah. With a passion for crafting delightful experiences, Pam’s journey to opening her own boutique café has been nothing short of remarkable.
After overcoming a life-threatening health scare in 2015 due to SCAD, Pam’s determination to embrace life led her to pursue her dream of opening her own café.
Named after her beloved pets who supported her during her recovery, Cocco and Delilah started as a luxury afternoon tea delivery and catering service in 2019.
Inspired by her love for books, the boutique’s interior has you feeling as though you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole into wonderland.
The menu offers an array of delights, from coffees brewed with beans from Market Harborough’s Carrara Coffee Roasters to decadent cakes and cocktails served from the stylish Champagne and cocktail bar, Etoile, located at the back of the café.
The brunch and afternoon tea menus promise an indulgent experience with dishes like smashed avocado, eggs benedict, and Indian heritage afternoon tea.
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Here is a list of more women-owned independents in Leicester City centre:
