A Felixstowe mum-of-two has opened her brand new toy and gift shop to show her children what mums are capable of achieving.

Michaela Sawyer, 35, has lived in Felixstowe for two years and recently decided to pursue her dream of opening a toy and gift shop in Orwell Road.

"Felixstowe is just beautiful," she said.

"I've made more connections with the community here than in the 30 years I lived in London."

Coming from a background as a teaching assistant for children with special needs, Mrs Sawyer said she wanted to continue her passion within her new business.

Ipswich Star: Michaela Sawyer has opened Taba Naba on Orwell Road.Michaela Sawyer has opened Taba Naba on Orwell Road. (Image: Michaela Sawyer)

"I love working with children and I have a lot of educational toys in the shop," she said.

"I also wanted to show my own two children that I can do something different and be my own boss."

The name, Taba Naba, comes from one of Mrs Sawyer's favourite songs that she sings with her children - the first line translating to 'Come on, let's go to the reef'.

"The tie to the seaside is important to me," added Mrs Sawyer.

"I give a certain amount of my profits to sea conservation projects and I teach my children about protecting the environment."

Echoing her eco-friendly approach in the products she offers, Mrs Sawyer highlighted that the wooden toys she sells are made from rubber wood - a by-product of the latex industry.

Ipswich Star: Taba Naba is a new toy and gift shop.Taba Naba is a new toy and gift shop. (Image: Michaela Sawyer)

She is also placing local partnerships at the heart of her business, 

Having opened on Saturday, March 4, Mrs Sawyer is looking forward to welcoming more people into her new store.

"Please do come in and say hello," she added.

"You don't have to buy anything, I'm open to having a chat and will take all your feedback on board to provide something for everyone."