Sweet Ideas NI: from humble beginnings to a community-focused coffee and traditional sweet shop

What began as a small sweet stand in July 2023 has quickly blossomed into a thriving family business, offering custom sweet gifts for special occasions and now, a welcoming community sit in Coffee shop at The Meadows Shopping Centre.

The sweet journey: from car boot sales to a sweet shop dream

Naomi's entrepreneurial spirit was evident from a young age. As a teenager, she loved setting up and selling at car boot sales. After clearing out the family attic, she ventured into selling Avon and upcycling items from Facebook Marketplace. With a relentless drive to create a better life for herself and her family, Naomi turned her side hustles into a full-time career.

In the beginning, Naomi started with NV Travel, organising family holidays in Europe. But her true passion emerged when she began crafting creative sweet gifts for occasions like Halloween, weddings, birthdays, and Christmas. "Sweet Ideas" was born, and Naomi found immense joy and fulfilment in her newfound creativity. The family home quickly transformed into a sweet shop warehouse, with the kitchen table doubling as a workspace.

A family affair and a leap of faith

What started as a solo venture soon became a family business. Naomi’s mother, partner, and children actively supported her at market fairs and events. It was her 6-year-old son who inspired the idea of opening a coffee sweet shop when he innocently asked, "Mummy, why don’t you open a sweet shop?"

Fate intervened when Naomi spotted a Facebook ad seeking an entrepreneur to take over a sweet shop unit in Portadown. Recognising the opportunity as serendipity, she decided to take a leap of faith, resign from her job, and fully commit to her dream.

Sweet Ideas Café: A hub of creativity and community

"Sweet Ideas NI" is more than just a business; it's a testament to Naomi's limitless creativity and her family's dedication. Since its inception, the business has participated in numerous fun days, craft fairs, and community events, offering everything from chocolate bouquets to party favours.

Overcoming adversity: a message of hope

Naomi's journey hasn't been without challenges. She bravely shares that she was in an abusive, controlling relationship for over five years. The abuse, primarily verbal and psychological, escalated at times to physical and sexual violence. Despite not initially recognising it as domestic violence, Naomi eventually sought help.

With the unwavering support of Mid Ulster Women’s Aid and her family, Naomi found the strength to leave the relationship over four years ago. Therapy and counselling through Women’s Aid allowed her to heal, rebuild her life, and pursue her dreams.

Naomi hopes her story will inspire others who may be experiencing domestic violence. "There is happiness and light on the other side. With the right support, you can move forward and create a new chapter in your life," she says.

Acknowledgments and gratitude

Naomi extends her heartfelt thanks to Mid Ulster Women’s Aid for their continued support over the past four years. She also credits GoSuceed for their assistance with her business plan and for supporting Sweet Ideas NI with essential resources.

Naomi and her family look forward to welcoming the community to Sweet Ideas Coffee and Traditional Sweet shop, where creativity and sweet treats come together in a space filled with warmth and joy. You will find them at The Meadows Shopping Centre, Unit 43, Portadown, BT62 3TN. You can also find out more here