Lucky Fish has been in Milpark’s 44 Stanley development for 12 years, selling clothing, accessories, linen, soft furnishings and handmade jewellery. Two years ago, owner Lulu Baily made the decision to move into a smaller shop in the same development, focusing more on the clothing and accessories that she sells.
How did your business start?
My husband is one of the developers of 44 Stanley, and I just fell in love with the shop because it was a stand-alone space, with big, open doors. I have always had a passion for Indian style and a mad love for decoration, so I started going on buying trips to India, and employed a tailor to make clothes and linen for the shop. At the beginning, we also sold wooden furnishings as well.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
It was really exciting to be caught up in the new development. I could never have a shop in a mall, and I love old buildings. While the buildings at 44 Stanley aren’t ancient, they have a lot of character, and I knew it would be easy to make the space look fantastic.
How did you find your premises?
It was the shop space itself that started the idea of Lucky Fish. It had exposed rafters and the logical openings, so it was a logical space for a shop.
Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
When I started out, I sold a wide range of furniture, art and decor items as well as the clothing, accessories and linen. After a while, I started to feel that the variety was too confusing for customers who didn’t really know why they had come or what they were after, so I chose a smaller, more intimate space and refocused Lucky Fish as a women’s shop – more like a boutique.
Who are your neighbours?
I have Vintage Cowboys on the left, The Atelier on my right and Three Marys over the way. I am also near the Salvation Cafe.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
They are cheaper than local high streets or malls, and offer access to a fantastic community of shoppers.
How many people go through your store each day?
It really depends on the day. It can be very erratic but it’s obviously busier on the weekends, especially when we have live music – which is most weekends.
Do you have any expansion plans?
I’ve just downsized, so I am probably not going to expand again any time soon.
Do you operate online as well?
I don’t have a website, but I showcase my wares on my Instagram account: @luckyfishjhb.
What’s your most popular item?
All year round, people come for the Anokhi kimono dressing gown – summer or winter, it’s our most popular thing. They also come for Anokhi quilts.
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Lucky Fish
011 726 8386
luckyfishjhb@gmail.com
Words: Georgina Guedes | Images: Supplied
