I started my little bookselling business in 2018, after the sudden and untimely death of my mum. Her passing brought home just how short and fragile life can be — how it can be taken away in a heartbeat. It made me realise it was time to pursue a long-held dream and start a small business doing something I truly loved.
Books have always been part of my life. I’ve loved reading since I was tiny, and my first full-time job after leaving school was at Hudson’s Bookshop in the centre of Birmingham. It felt natural to turn back to that passion.
So, in February 2018, I bought a box of books and set up a market stall in my hometown of Heanor, Derbyshire. I traded from that stall for six years, gradually building a loyal following. In 2020, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, my business — along with the market I managed — was classed as “non-essential.” I quickly contacted the council and worked to get the market reopened with essential traders, following government guidelines.
At the same time, I adapted. I started selling books online from my caravan in the back garden, doing live sales on social media, as well as distanced collections and doorstep drop-offs around town. By June 2020, when the market reopened more fully, my little business began to grow again.
In 2021, I expanded my stall to Matlock Market and attended events around the area. By 2023, I was trading in Wirksworth, renting space in Infinite Wellbeing. Then, in January 2024, I added regular stalls at Eckington and Sneinton Markets to my weekly calendar.
By May 2024, I knew it was time for a bigger step. The former Barclays Bank building in Heanor had been beautifully renovated, and when I spotted it, I realised it was exactly what I needed: more space and room for a wider selection of stock. I spoke with the landlord, who was more than happy to rent me the premises.
And so, on August 31st 2024, Bizy Lizy Books first shop opened its doors, officially launched by our Town Mayor.
Since opening the shop, it’s been everything I hoped for and more. It’s become a little hub for book lovers, a calm space where people can browse, chat, and find something special to take home. I’m proud of how far the business has come — from a single box of books on a market stall to a bookshop of my own in the heart of my hometown. This is just the beginning of the next chapter, and I’m excited to see where it leads. Whether you’re a regular customer, a new visitor, or someone following along online, thank you for being part of this story.
