When Fourways resident Kathy Duggan looks at the business she has built, she sees more than candles and décor.
She sees an unexpected second chapter that began with a simple favour for her daughter, and grew into something of her own. Duggan, a teacher by profession, spent many years running a pre-primary school before doing locum teaching while raising her children. Once they had left home, she began considering a return to teaching, but Covid-19 put those plans on hold.

Instead, her creativity opened another door. “I have always been a creative person and have enjoyed anything involving art, design, and creating beautiful things.”

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That passion became the foundation for ASHE Décor, which started after her daughter, then studying at university, asked Duggan to help get a candle business off the ground while she concentrated on her studies. Her daughter eventually completed her articles and qualified as an attorney, but, by then, Duggan had found something she loved. “What started as something I was doing for my daughter has grown into a business that I really love.”

Today, ASHE Décor offers soy wax candles, home fragrance products, and décor created from repurposed oyster shells. Duggan’s collection includes wreaths, trinket holders, and wall art, while custom orders allow her to create something personal for customers.

The business also introduced Duggan to a new community of vendors, small business owners, and customers. “I think one of the most exciting discoveries has been that it is never too late to start something new.”

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Like many small business owners, she has faced uncertainty. From sourcing quality materials to learning websites and social media, building the business has required her to step outside her comfort zone.

There are quiet periods too, when she wonders whether her products can compete in a crowded market. Yet a message from a happy customer can change everything. “Those little moments of encouragement restore my confidence and remind me that there is a place for what I do.”

As Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women, Duggan believes it is also a chance to recognise the different paths women take. “Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate every woman as an individual, and to recognise that each woman has her own unique story, journey, and strength.”

Her message to women considering entrepreneurship is simple: “Start. You don’t have to have everything figured out right from the beginning. Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back. Anything is possible.”

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