We are passionate about helping small business owners celebrate their achievements by sharing the story of their business journey. We hope that these real stories, like the one you are about to read, will inspire you and if you would like to share your journey with us please do get in touch.   

Jane Hallam has launched an innovative new clothing business that is helping women who suffer from symptoms of the menopause. She took a big leap of faith to launch the business in 2015, leaving a full-time job to do so.  

Jane has designed the Esteem-No Pause range of clothing using a technical high-performance fabric from Italy. The state of the art material allows air to circulate to alleviate the discomfort and debilitation of excessive perspiration, including menopausal hot flushes.  A male range of clothing is currently in development and Jane is also researching a pregnancy collection and a line of bedding. 

We interviewed Jane about her business on the 14th of June 2017.  

Could you firstly explain to us what it is you do? 

I save women from nature - the tyranny of night sweats, through stylish and effective clothing.  

Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to set up your business?  

My background is almost 30 years in higher education admin/management.  I was inspired by my peri-menopausal night sweats and inability to find effective and stylish clothing to alleviate discomfort.  

How did you create your innovative clothing range and what is included in your debut collection?  

The debut collection comprises Knickers, Vest, Vest Slipdress and PJ/Palazzo Pants.  Most can be worn as lingerie, nightwear, daywear or exercise wear.  

What makes your business unique and differentiates you from your competitors? 

Our fabric - tech high performance and styles simply fitted and flexible to wear. Appeal beyond menopause.  

What have been the biggest challenges of setting up your business?  

Financing the development and initial production run.  

What type of financial and mentoring support have you received?  

Business loans from BFSolutions1 and NatWest Bank and mentoring from BizGrowthHub and ESparkGlobal.   

How do you advertise your business? 

Currently through online and physical magazines.  

What would you say is your proudest business moment so far? 

The first sale from the website.  

What does success look like to you?  

Being on @TheEllenShow talking about my clothing and doing a dance with Ellen; seeing my clothing in @johnlewisretail and selling the business in 5-10 years to/collaborating with an international lingerie or Body Active company.  

What does the future hold - any exciting plans we should keep an eye out for? 

A male t-shirt is in development and MODA trade show in Feb 2018.  

For further details on Esteem-No Pause visit www.esteemmanchester.com 

Please note: This interview took place on the MiVentures platform which is owned and managed by Wenta.