Dorchester businesswoman reaches £1 million turnover after her company tripled overnight in lockdown

Leila Gregory, founder of Belle-Modelle, tells the story of her journey to owning a successful company.

The clothing and lifestyle store, based in Dorchester and online, is turning over £1 million a year. It is one of her biggest achievements following a series of previous ventures.

She said: “I truly believe if you don’t fail at something, you will never learn.”

She started selling furniture and handmade jewellery from home, moving to market stalls and then opening her first shop.

After years of determination and experiencing financially tough times, Leila was able to achieve her dream of owning a highly successful business.

Leila believes being creative and adapting to new environments has helped her keep going through numerous challenges, taking on countless online competitors.