WHEN she realised the big stores weren’t stocking the sort of handbag she needed, Sarah Haran didn’t get annoyed. Instead, she got inspired.

The Glasgow-based businesswoman launched VVA, a range of high-quality leather bags and accessories back in 2013, and since then the brand has gone from strength to strength.

“I needed a handbag that I could use for business, formal functions and the weekends, without needing a handbag changeover,” Sarah told the Evening Times. “I wanted something stylish but functional that looked great for most occasions and had an interior that allowed me to organise my belongings into plenty of pockets.

“The bag I was looking for had to be durable and big enough to carry work belongings while out of the office, but also sleek and stylish to take to evening occasions and use at the weekends.”

With all this in mind, Sarah, 50, started making premium leather bags as a hobby for herself and soon found friends, family and colleagues loved them too. On realising her bags had wider appeal, the IT director did some formal training in design and manufacture and made the decision to grow her business. VVA now sells online to customers across the globe.

It was a big leap, but the entrepreneur is delighted with the response she’s had. Running your own business can be tough, says Sarah, and it helps to have certain attributes.

“It’s also about listening to your customers, being willing to develop your product or service to meet market demands and being easy to do business with," she says.

“Then I think it’s about having the determination to survive the many challenges that your business will face and still enjoy doing it.”

And she has some sage advice for others who are considering turning their business dream into a reality.

“Research your ideas and do some legwork,” she explains. “Find out if there is a potential market or if someone else is already doing it – if so you can deliver a better service or product. Also, seek out assistance through bodies such as Scottish Enterprise and Entrepreneurial Scotland.

“You have to be willing to take the first step towards what might seem a risky future but the rewards are exciting and could be lucrative - only you will know if this is the right move.”

www.vva.co.uk