From High-Pressure Events to Vintage Treasures: My Journey to a Happier Life

Not so long ago, I was co-running a bustling golf club and event business alongside members of my extended family. It was high-pressure, high accountability, and required almost every ounce of my energy. For over 25 years, I had thrived on the adrenaline of business marketing, networking and promotion alongside the satisfaction of pulling off big events, keeping the majority of the golf club membership happy and the buzz of working with a loyal team.

Also not so long ago, the many years of the pressure of juggling work and motherhood left me hospitalised and exhausted. Then came the pandemic. An enforced extended period of lockdown - whilst giving myself and my family concerns for my health - allowed me time to slow down and reflect, and, for the first time probably, I realised the extent of the cost of the previous years.

The relentless stress had taken its toll on my health, family relationships and happiness. Whilst I was juggling the demands of the business, my passion project—a small vintage side hustle—became a quiet refuge. Whenever I could steal a moment, I found joy in sourcing rustic treasures, restoring forgotten pieces, and connecting with others who shared my love for vintage charm. Occupying a space in a local antiques centre had given me a focus away from the corporate world for over a decade. Lockdown gave me time to grow the business online, with orders quickly coming in from around the World.

Eventually, the contrast between the two worlds became impossible to ignore. The vintage side of my life brought me so much peace and satisfaction, while the corporate side left me drained. So, I made a decision: I stepped away from the world of endless worries, pressure and demands on my time seven days a week to dedicate the majority of my time to my vintage business.

As soon as I took the leap, I knew it was the right move. Now, I wake up every morning feeling excited about what I do. I’ve traded boardrooms for brocantes, complaints for chats with like-minded collectors, and business legislation for creative freedom.

The vintage community has welcomed me with open arms. I’ve discovered a world of inspiring people who are as passionate about unique, timeless pieces as I am. Whether it’s a fellow seller at a fair or a customer who shares the story behind their purchase, every connection feels meaningful.

Best of all, I’m happier and healthier. My days are slower but more fulfilling. I have time to appreciate the little things—like star-gazing in the North Suffolk countryside—and focus on what truly matters to me: my family, my friends, my love for vintage, and the joy of living a simpler rural life.

If you’ve ever thought about making a big change, my advice is to listen to your heart. It’s not always easy to take the leap, but sometimes, the risk is worth it. Life is too short to spend it doing something that doesn’t light you up.

To anyone who’s a part of the vintage world—thank you for being such an uplifting and welcoming community. You’ve helped make this transition one of the best decisions of my life.