Angela Maughan conducts weddings and funerals and runs a homeopathy business
How and why did you start in business?
I was a nurse and left to train as a homeopath so I could be a stay-at-home mum, as paying for childcare was becoming prohibitively expensive.
I was first introduced to homeopathy by a colleague and spent four years training.
I met a homeopath who was also a minister – as a homeopath, you look at a person’s physical, mental and emotional well-being and she brought in an additional spiritual element.
I was then asked by a friend to do a funeral service and it grew from that.
What ceremonies can you perform?
I conduct legal wedding ceremonies and thoughtful and respectful funerals.
I am an independent minister, not affiliated to any particular religion or belief system, so can perform non-religious ceremonies or ceremonies with elements of more than one religion.
I am legally licensed and can conduct weddings anywhere in Scotland.
For funerals, I work with families to create ceremonies that honour the deceased and I provide an after-care service that is often forgotten about.
Who has helped you along the way?
The rural enterprise support group GrowBiz has been great, as I have been able to dip in and out when I have needed the various services it provides.
Friends and family, especially my children, inspire me and help me.
Your biggest mistake?
In the past it has been not believing in myself. But making mistakes is the way we learn.
Your greatest achievement?
That I keep going. Personally and professionally, there have been some difficult times.
I have an inner strength that I didn’t recognise until it was pointed out to me last year. I know now to ask for help and advice and where to seek it.
Hopes for the future?
I would like to be the preferred supplier to at least 10 wedding venues and 10 funeral directors this year.
I would like to double the amount of ceremonies I take this year. I would like to be affiliated with a complementary therapy centre and run more training courses.
What is the hardest thing about running your own business?
I find taking holidays difficult. The feeling of isolation at times.
Advice to wannabe entrepreneurs?
Feel the fear and do it anyway! Do some research and speak to people like GrowBiz. If it energises you and fills you with passion, go with it.
How do you relax?
I enjoy mountain biking and hill walking and last year I started boxing and kick boxing. I ceilidh dance. I also meditate and journal, I listen to lots of positive personal development speakers and my car is the classroom.