What started as a creative outlet during lockdown has developed into a growing Highland business for Invergordon entrepreneur Emma Wood.
Founded in 2024, Emma’s Vinyls & More has built a loyal following through social media, local craft fairs and word of mouth, offering customers a wide range of bespoke vinyl products and personalised gifts.
Now the business has entered a new stage of growth following the construction of a purpose built workshop in Emma’s garden, creating a dedicated space designed to help meet increasing demand.
The expansion has been supported by Highland Opportunity Investments Limited, better known as HOIL, The Highland Council’s business loan company, which provides financial assistance to businesses and community organisations across the Highlands.
For Emma, the move represents much more than additional workspace.
It is a sign of how a small idea born during one of the most difficult periods in recent memory has become a viable business with ambitions for further growth.
The new workshop allows production to be increased, improves storage and provides space for new equipment, helping reduce turnaround times while creating opportunities for future expansion.
It also frees up space within the family home, separating business life from home life in a way that many small business owners strive to achieve.
Emma’s Vinyls & More specialises in custom drinkware, home décor and personalised gifts, serving customers looking for products tailored to special occasions and individual tastes.
Councillor Tamala Collier, Director of HOIL, said supporting businesses at every stage of development remains an important part of strengthening the Highland economy.
“At HOIL, we are committed to supporting Highland businesses at every stage of their development.
“Access to flexible finance can often be the difference between an idea remaining a dream and becoming a successful reality.
“We are proud to have supported Emma’s Vinyls & More with this investment and look forward to seeing the business continue to flourish.
“Our aim is to help local businesses unlock their potential, create opportunities and contribute to a vibrant and resilient Highland economy.”
Emma said receiving support from HOIL had helped transform how the business operates.
“Receiving loan assistance from HOIL has been a huge milestone for my business. Before installing the summer house workspace, I had completely outgrown the small room I was working from at home.
“Space was becoming a real challenge, limiting both productivity and creativity as the business continued to grow.
“This loan has allowed me to create a dedicated workspace that has transformed how I operate.
“Having a larger, purpose-built environment has improved efficiency, given me room to expand my equipment and stock and provided a creative space, where I can develop new ideas and products.
“It has also enabled me to better serve my customers and continue growing the business with confidence.
“I am incredibly grateful to HOIL for their support.
“Their investment in small businesses like mine makes a real difference, and this loan has helped me take Emma’s Vinyls and More to the next level.
“The new workspace has not only strengthened the business but has also given me the freedom and inspiration to be more creative and ambitious for the future.”
For Emma Wood, what began as a lockdown hobby has become a business with firm roots in the Highlands and plenty of room still to grow.
