Fourways resident Kathy Duggan says entrepreneurship came unexpectedly, but it has opened a new chapter in her life and shown her that it is never too late to start something new.

A teacher by profession, Duggan ran a pre-primary school for many years, later doing locum teaching while raising her children. After they had left home, she considered returning to teaching, but Covid-19 brought those plans to a halt. “I have always been a creative person and have enjoyed anything involving art, design, and creating beautiful things. I think this passion became the foundation for ASHE Décor.”

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The business began when Duggan’s daughter, who was studying at university, decided she wanted to start a candle business and asked her mother to get it off the ground while she concentrated on her studies. Her daughter eventually qualified as an attorney, leaving Duggan to continue with the business. “What started as something I was doing for my daughter has grown into a business that I really love.”

ASHE Décor now produces soy wax candles, home fragrance products, and décor pieces made from repurposed oyster shells, including wreaths, trinket holders, and wall art.

Duggan also takes custom orders, allowing her to create personalised pieces for customers.
Friends and family initially encouraged her to sell her creations, which led her to markets, small gift stores, and online sales. “By doing this I realised there was a demand for the things I was creating and that this could become a viable business.”

She said the journey has brought challenges, including sourcing quality materials, learning the technical side of running a business and managing the physical demands of attending markets. “My customer feedback keeps me moving forward. I have also learnt that building a business takes patience. Not every day will be a good one, but you have to keep believing in yourself and continue moving forward.”

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This Women’s Day, Duggan believes women should celebrate one another and recognise their individual journeys. “I believe that when women encourage other women, rather than competing with them, we create a stronger and more supportive community.”

Her advice to women considering starting a business is straightforward: Start small, experiment, remain consistent, and do something they genuinely enjoy. “Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back. Anything is possible.”

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