Karen Allison Paisley, Founder of A Wee Token

Monday 15 August 2022

Tell us about your business and your role within.

I started “A Wee Token” Online Gift Shop 2 years ago during the pandemic due to personal circumstances. I was researching and looking into starting a business before the pandemic hit but this gave me the push to start. I always loved to find the perfect gift to suit friends or family and seeing the delight on their face when they open their present hence A Wee Token was born. Initially I stocked brands that I had come across over the years that were a little bit different but now I have a mix of local artisans from Northern Ireland whose products I have used or bought myself that I enjoy and recommend.

I wanted to work from home and still have the flexibility to be there for my children. I was very naïve, not realising fully what selling online would entail and the Yes You Can Course came along when I needed to upskill.

Share a brief overview of your career journey to date
I've just celebrated my 2-year business anniversary and I can't quite believe where the time has gone. What's the saying, 'Time flies when you’re having fun'. It is such a rollercoaster having your own business and many highs and lows but when you speak to other entrepreneurs, you realise you are not alone and that's why it is great to connect with likeminded women in business as you realise you’re not the only one feeling this way.

What aspect of the Yes You Can Programme did you take part in?
I took part in the Explore It Programme and was so delighted when I got through as I know there was a lot of people who applied. I was very nervous as it was all online with the pandemic and would have been better in person, but I met the loveliest bunch of women including the mentors who I am still in contact with today and who I call friends.

Why did you decide to get involved in Yes You Can?
As I said, I was very naive when I started my business and didn't fully appreciate all that it entailed and the programme came along at the right time for me to upskill in the areas I lacked experience such as social media and finance.

How was the Yes You Can experience?
I can't recommend the Yes You Can programme enough, it was invaluable to me and my business at the time, helping me to progress, learn new skills, meet other women in business in the same situation, have a laugh, and helped me through a difficult time in my life personally while running my business.

Which skills or experiences from the programme helped most in your business?
It gave me more confidence to put myself out there, connect with likeminded women in business and upskill in all aspects of social media, and areas of my business which I lacked experience.

What is your advice to those who are thinking of applying?
Just do it! You have nothing to lose but so much to gain. The wealth of information is invaluable.

How can we keep up to date on your business journey?
You can keep up to date with me via Facebook, Instagram and my website.