Caroline Sanders and Jo Hilton - Combine forces to create Hilton Sanders

The idea for Hilton Sanders Photography came about while they were working for a commercial photography company together, “Within a year, we knew we could do a better job and enjoy our work more – if we set up a business of our own. We wanted to create a better experience for our customers and get direct recognition for the quality of our work.

Building a reputation

Hilton Sanders launched in summer 2008, with a vision of producing imaginative and unique work, that welcomes customer involvement. Finding start-up funding was a struggle but investments and support from family and friends helped the business to get off the ground.

“We learnt a great deal and made a lot sacrifices in our first year – for example our weekends completely disappeared! But we steadily built up a reputation for good work and we’re now getting people come to us as a result of seeing our photographs – and that’s a great feeling.”

Supporting other local businesses

Caroline and Jo have set up a business networking group for local women, with the aim of supporting other entrepreneurs and connecting small businesses to each other.

The advice they offer to those who’ve got a business idea and are wondering what to do next is: “Do your research – be sure of what you are offering and how it’s different from other similar services. You also need to discuss your ideas with as many people as possible – get as much advice as you can, and learn from the feedback you receive.”

www.hiltonsandersphotography.co.uk