Step-by-step guide to starting a business

Starting a successful business - The Present Tree (video)

Case Study

The Present Tree in County Antrim sells gift-wrapped trees as luxury organic gifts. Catherine Cunningham, founder of The Present Tree, explains how combining her love of trees and design has helped her to start and grow a successful business.

Since launching her business in 2013, Catherine has developed an online shop and is now shipping trees to customers throughout Europe.

Here, Catherine highlights the importance of market research, creating an efficient team and being passionate about your business.

Case Study

Catherine Cunningham

the present tree

Catherine's top tips:

  • "Identify your strengths and weaknesses and hire staff with the right skills to create an empowered, efficient team."
  • "The start-up phase is about being heard - market your business as much as possible and listen to customer feedback."
  • "Step outside your comfort zone – that’s where you will find new opportunities and possibilities."