Words: Tivania Moodley | Images: Supplied
People love the way shoes make them feel, and if you explore the closet of any woman or modern man, you’d surely find at least 20 pairs of shoes. Graeme Tuck leveraged off consumers’ obsession for shoes and developed the Blueberry Blush brand to bring clients a selection of high-fashion footwear – from pumps to heels and their iconic jelly sandals.
How did your business start?
A mutual friend introduced me to my business partner, Angela van Herzeele, and within six weeks, we were in business together. Angela had a passion for all things fashion while I loved the business aspect and the merging of our interests resulted in the business idea. We officially opened Blueberry Blush on 1 August last year.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
We operate from the Acacia Business Park in Hillcrest which is ideal because we looked for an area that was close to both of our homes.
How did you find your premises?
We needed premises that provided adequate storage and workspace because we are not very retail focused right now. We dealt with several local estate agents and viewed many properties but finally felt that the Acacia Business Park was right for us.
Why are they ideally suited to your business?
We’re geared to sell via a distribution network of boutiques nationwide, as well as via an online platform, and felt that having a spacious, well-lit and secure base was our priority. Acacia Business Park offers all of that.
Who are your neighbours?
A business that manufactures soap and one that does promotional printing.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
The rental prices are competitive at a cost of approximately R60/m2.
Do you have any expansion plans?
Our business is still growing, so our immediate future developments will be focused on our product range and branding. Priorities include quality enhancements for local and particularly export clients, range expansion in several styles, and refinements to our packaging.
How many people visit your business each day?
We see several people per week by appointment only as we’re more geared towards online sales.
Do you operate online as well?
We have an active Facebook page (@blueberryblushza) that showcases our products and do online orders via our website (blueberryblush.co.za.)
What’s your most popular item?
In our jelly sandal range, the Athena, Aphrodite and Venus sandals are most popular. In our pump range, the Blue Shweshwe style always sells out quickly.
Bluebery Blush
083 256 3878
blueberryblush.co.za
