Proof that small business can succeed in Croatia.
Lidija Bošnjak (42), born in Slavonia and now living in Zagreb, began her latest business adventure just six months ago, and today she owns her own Vintage Circus shop in the very centre of Zagreb. In a pleasantly decorated shop, customers can choose among T-shirts, jackets, umbrellas, handbags, jewellery, perfumes and various fashion accessories which all have a certain vintage feel, reports Poslovni.hr on November 5, 2015.
It all started several years ago when she self-designed clothes which in a very short time impressed the “audience” on Facebook, so she soon offered them to a friend who owned her own boutique. Although she was employed at the time in a textile shop, she knew the design, style and management well enough to decide to start her own business. “I had a very clear vision of how my shop should look like, and I have applied to the state for self-employment incentives. I had the knowledge, experience, plans and objectives, and I have very quickly received a positive answer and started to make ‘Vintage Circus’ a reality”, Lidija explains.
She says she is satisfied in Croatia and claims that, despite the financial crisis which has affected many people, Vintage Circus has its customers. In addition to her, the store employs one part-time student worker, as well as two women who sew the clothes. She has plans to hire more people in the future, as well as to open another outlet and expand her small sewing operation.
The owner of Vintage Circus believes that people should not be leaving Croatia. “People do not need to leave the country, but we should all connect with each other more, especially entrepreneurs. I am sorry that I have not launched my shop earlier, because in this business there are no mysteries to me. I would recommend to everybody to try to turn their hobbies into business”, Lidija said.
In the end, it should be noted that the entrepreneur has also launched her own brand. It is a “My Mellow” perfume which has already impressed many female customers.
