IN THIS week's SME Focus a young entrepreneur explains how starting her business involved a journey of discovery that featured some pleasant surprises.

Name: Lauren Moss

Age: 32

What is your business called? vivimoss Ltd

Where is it based? Stockbridge, Edinburgh

What does it produce, what services does it offer? Sportswear to support the wearers in their active lifestyles. I wanted to create a range that the clients would be equally happy to wear whilst popping out for a coffee, or taking their children to rugby on a Saturday morning, as they would be wearing it to the gym.

Who does it sell to? Anyone, and everyone who wants to live an active lifestyle. I wanted to keep the garments simple and stylish so that they look good on everyone. So far, our customers have ranged from 13 years old to 65 years old.

What is its turnover? We only launched two months ago, so turnover is small at the moment.Over the first year we hope to turnover somewhere in the region of £50,000 to £100,000 which will then be reinvested in the business.

How many employees? Just one, me!

When was it formed?

vivimoss was officially formed in January this year, however unofficially, I have been developing the business since I finished work in May 2013. It has been a long, but fascinating process during which I have learnt a huge amount.

Initially, I began by making contacts both within the fabric manufacturing, and clothing manufacturing industry. I knew that the brand would be dependent on good designs, and the quality of the garments, so I spent a lot of time working with the manufacturers, and my designer, to ensure that both these points were covered. Once manufacturing had begun, this enabled me to spend time developing the brand, and working with web designers on the website build, as well as the photography for the site.

At present, I'm spending my time marketing the brand, preparing to add some pieces to the range for winter, and developing garments for 2015. Additionally, I am processing the orders myself, ensuring they get sent out to customers as soon as possible.

Life is busy at the moment, but I love it!

Why did you take the plunge?

Over a slightly drunken dinner, with some great friends, the conversation turned to careers and I was amazed at how many of us were staying in careers that we didn't really enjoy just because it was the safest thing to do. It was an enlightening moment for me, and I realised that I needed to take the leap, and try something new. Around this time, I had been becoming more and more active out of work, and I felt that there wasn't a sportswear brand out there that I wanted to wear consistently. This is where the idea for vivimoss began.

What were you doing before you took the plunge? I was working as a Private Client Investment Manager for Investec Wealth and Investment, managing clients' money, and developing relationships. I had been with the same team there for close to eight years, so I was very sad to leave.

How did you raise the start-up funding? I am fortunate enough to have a very understanding, and supportive partner who works in the oil and gas industry. He has helped to fund the business, as well as providing me with unlimited advice and encouragement throughout the process.

I also have another private investor. I am looking into grant possibilities, for example the Scottish Edge Fund.

What was your biggest break? Simply making the decision to give this a shot. Now, I just need to keep my head down and work hard to ensure it is a success.

What was your worst moment? Handing in my notice at work, I'd developed so many friendships there, it was sad to leave. They were great about it though, and have been very supportive ever since.

What do you most enjoy about running the business? I love that every day is different, and brings new challenges. The really lovely surprise throughout the process has been just how helpful people are when you take the time to approach them for help. I have received so much great advice from people who I had originally assumed would be too busy with their own businesses to spend their time helping me out. Also the freedom that running your own business allows.

What do you least enjoy? Making scary decisions on my own. Having worked for a large organisation for so many years, there was always someone to discuss ideas, and help with decisions.

It's very different now that there is only me.

What is your biggest bugbear? Rude people. Fortunately, there aren't that many around.

What are your ambitions for the firm? My immediate ambition, is to develop brand awareness. Going forward from there, I would like to use the brand as a way to encourage people to be more active.

What are your top priorities? Growing the business, along with increasing brand recognition, increasing cash flow, and increasing sales.

It's all to do with scale, once I can grow the business, I can increase my sportswear range, and I will have more flexibility with manufacturers and retailers.

I am also looking for select few retailers in the UK that may be interested in stocking a small, independent brand.

What could the Westminster and/or Scottish governments do that would help? Either more availability for grants for small businesses, or perhaps something that can educate us in issues such as PR.

It's tough getting your name known, when you don't have a huge budget to pay large agencies that specialise in these things to do it for you.

What was the most valuable lesson that you learned? Ask as many questions as possible, when you get the chance.

No question is ever stupid, and you never know, others may also be struggling with a similar issue.

How do you relax? My main escape is through CrossFit, a strength and condi-tioning programme.

It's a great way to clear the mind, which then refreshes my focus.

I also enjoy exploring Edinburgh bars and restaurants, it's a fantastic city to live in.