Sharee Marshall to shut up shop after 30 years
CLOSING DOWN: Iconic Launceston fashion retailer Sharee Marshall plans to close her shop in May or June. Picture: Ryan Young
When she was 16-years-old Sharee Marshall left Prospect High School to start her working life in a floristry business.
At the age of 24 and with $700 behind her, Ms Marshall bought her first lot of fabric and started a women's clothing business.
Three decades later it is still going strong - but it won't be for much longer because Ms Marshall is closing down permanently.
"When I first started my business I knew I would know when it was to finish," she said.
"I still like what I do but I don't love it...I have achieved everything I wanted to achieve."
Running the business has been a labour of love for Ms Marshall, who compared the experience to raising a child.
"I've chosen not to sell the business because it's like my second child, its been through thick and thin with me.
"I built it up from a little baby, right through and its a grown-up now."
Ms Marshall said she planned to lease her St John Street premises out.
"I will wind up about May or June," she said.
"I can keep going for another 20 years, but I'm only marking time then and I really don't want to do that."
How the business began
After leaving school, Ms Marshall studied fashion and design at TAFE. She then designed and manufactured her own clothing while she worked in retail outlets.
In 1990 Ms Marshall created a list that led to her starting her own starting a business.
"I made up a list and drew two columns," she explained.
"One side was what I was interested in and the other side was what I was good at. Fashion hit the top."
A time of massive change
In the early days there was no internet, seven day trading, mobile phones or GST.
Ms Marshall said she couldn't afford to buy a fax machine outright in the early days because of the $3500 price tag.
"I worked seven days a week, starting at 5am and finishing late into the evenings with great support from my parents, friends, family and staff," she said.
"I have seen many things come and go, good and bad. I have re-invented myself many times and move with the ever changing landscape of business and retail."
Future plans
After the doors to her business close for the last time, Ms Marshall said having a rest would be a priority.
"When I know what will be next I will let you know, at the moment I have no immediate plans, I will see what doors open up for me but a rest is in order first.
"I have a very full life away from work with friends, family, dancing, the gym and more."