18 year old Charlie Lammin set up his mobile valeting and detailing business, Restoreddetailinguk, when he was just 17. Based in Amersham, Charlie offers tailor made packages including paint correction, ceramic coatings and machine polishing. Here Charlie tells us about how and why he started his business, and his motivation for doing what he loves.
Which school/college did you go to and what did you study?
Which school/college did you go to and what did you study?
I attended Amersham school until 2019 and then went on to study a level 2 in Electrical installations. I then further went on to study level 3 electrical engineering in 2020/21.
When and why did you start up your side hustle?
I have always wanted to be my own boss and found a passion for cars at a young age so I wanted to do something that involved my love for cars. I started this company on my own which I later decided to ask my good friend to come and join me. ‘Restoreddetailing’ was formed in November 2020 after several months of planning and plenty of thought.
What is the most rewarding part?
The most rewarding part is being able to see the clients reaction to the valet/detailing we have accomplished for them. Another rewarding part of my job would have to be watching the company progress and achieve more over time. The progress motivates me to keep providing people with the quality standards we ensure.
What’s been the most challenging part?
The most challenging part of Restoreddetailing has had to be finding enough time and the right balance between working and growing Restored as a company whilst still giving 100% to my studies.
What skills do you need to run your own business?
I personally found that the skills that helped me set up my own business were perseverance, resilience and determination. As well as these skills which enable me to manage through difficult situations, being about to choose between multiple strategies to suit each customer is essential.
What advice would you give to a young person thinking of starting their own business?
The advice I would give to someone who was once in my shoes would be to plan for every outcome and just take the first step! Every company has started from the bottom so don’t be afraid to be seen there.