Heather’s new shop is open in Dial Lane

Heather Carr has always had an ambition to run her own business.

Now she has achieved that dream - by opening her own gift and clothes boutique - Zeebra Chic, in Dial Lane, Ipswich.

In fact 2014 has been an exciting year for Heather,31, who married husband Darryl at Haughley Park Barns in April.

“We were on our honeymoon, in Thailand, wnen we decided I would do this.

“I have always wanted to run my own shop.

“It is really exciting.

“It is nice to be your own boss. It is a nice challenge.”

Heather previously worked for women’s aid, as a children and family support worker but felt it was a time for a change in her life.

“I enjoyed it but I needed a new challenge.”

She has also previously run a jewellery business, by running a stall a stall at events and house parties, which gave her retail experience.

Her family, her husband and parents, have been crucial in getting the new shop open so quickly.

“Mum and dad used to run Blends coffee shop in the Buttermarket nearby.

“Mum (Karen) helps me in the shop now.

“Dad (Keith Whatmore), and Darryl helped me get the shop open. They turned it round in two weeks,

“They put in the new floor and Dad has built most of the displays.

“We bought furniture from auctions and shabby-chic-ed it.

“People keep asking to buy it so perhaps that is something we will do more of in the future.

“I am buying just a few of every item, to keep it fresh, so once it has gone it has gone.

“We are saying it is vintage home gifts and accessories. I am always looking for new and unusual things.

“The clothing range is proving popular too - it is Italian.”

The shop opened its doors for the first time in November.

Heather added: “My family have been a great support. I couldn’t have done it without them.

“We wanted to be open, before Christmas, so that people would know we were here.

“We change the window display every week, and we want to be known for themed gifts, like Valentine’s Day, Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day.

“All the neighbours have been very welcoming, Berridges, Pickwicks and the Edinburgh Woollen Mill.

“This really is my dream,” she added.