On a recent episode of Sukany4 - The Podcast, I had the pleasure of walking and talking with the wonderfully dynamic Anne Sowerby of Sassy Property Styling. Against the scenic backdrop of Maryport—a hidden gem on Cumbria’s coast—we delved into Anne’s rich and varied career, her approach to community and design, and the wisdom she’s gained from her journey as an entrepreneur.
Maryport’s Hidden Charm
As we strolled through Maryport, Anne’s passion for the town was evident. A place she described as a “hidden gem,” Maryport is experiencing a quiet revival with new food spots and cafes adding vibrancy. For Anne, Maryport and the surrounding areas are more than just picturesque—they’re home. While not born in the town, her deep roots in the northwest of England and her return to the area after years of moving around have given her a strong sense of belonging.
Anne shared a sentiment that resonated deeply: “A house is only bricks and mortar; it’s the people who make it a home. And that’s true for communities too.” This belief in the power of human connection is a driving force in both her personal and professional life.
A Trailblazing Career
Anne’s journey into entrepreneurship began early when she opened a toy shop at just 22. She reflected on the audacity of her younger self: “At the time, I didn’t realize how brave it was, but looking back, I see what a big step that was for someone so young.”
From there, her career took many exciting turns, including roles as a town centre manager and a leader in community training projects. She successfully organized large-scale events like blues festivals and Christmas markets, even booking legendary performers such as Dionne Warwick. Her creativity and knack for thinking outside the box have always been at the core of her ventures, from marketing campaigns to innovative town regeneration projects.
A Passion for Interior Design
Anne’s transition into interior design and property styling was a natural evolution of her love for creativity and business. Following a life-changing injury in 2011, Anne decided to pursue her dream of working in interiors. She trained under Ann Maurice, a well-known TV personality and "house doctor," and became a certified consultant in staging and interior design.
Her approach to property staging and design is practical yet deeply personal. She explains, “It’s not about my taste; it’s about the client’s lifestyle, needs, and vision.” Anne works on a range of projects, from designing homes for young professionals to staging multi-million-pound properties. She takes pride in creating spaces that reflect her clients’ personalities while ensuring functionality and aesthetic harmony.
The Power of Staging
Anne highlighted a statistic that left me astounded: 79% of people struggle to visualize potential in an empty or cluttered space. This insight underscores the importance of property staging. Anne has transformed countless homes, helping sellers attract buyers by presenting their properties in the best possible light.
Her mantra is clear: “A home is where you live, but a house is what you sell.”
Her expertise in blending creativity with business acumen has led her to stage homes across Cumbria and beyond, working with developers, homeowners, and even Airbnb hosts. With a team of trusted tradespeople and a carefully curated inventory of staging furniture and accessories, Anne’s work speaks for itself.
Awards and Recognition
Anne’s passion and dedication haven’t gone unnoticed. She has received multiple awards, including recognition from Houzz for nine consecutive years and the prestigious Innovation and Excellence Award for Interior Design. Winning the North of England’s Rural Business Award was a turning point, transforming the way her business was perceived and opening up new opportunities.
Balancing Work and Wellbeing
Despite her accomplishments, Anne is refreshingly honest about the challenges of running a business. She credits meditation, gardening, and a positive outlook for helping her navigate difficult times.
I believe you’ve got to let go and live for today. Worrying only makes things worse,” she shared.
Her forward-thinking mindset extends to her future plans. Anne is exploring ways to create residual income, such as developing an app that offers design tips and staging advice. She is also considering branded products like journals and homeware, all while continuing to provide exceptional service to her clients.
A Final Thought
Anne’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and adaptability. Whether transforming a home, organizing a festival, or mentoring the next generation of designers, Anne embodies the spirit of creativity and community.
For anyone seeking inspiration in entrepreneurship or interior design, Anne’s journey is proof that success comes from doing what you love and staying true to yourself. And for those in need of a property styling expert, Anne Sowerby is clearly a name to remember.
Explore Anne’s work at Sassy Property Styling here and stay tuned for more stories from extraordinary people shaping our communities on Sukany4 - The Podcast.
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