Trader of the Month: Sharine McKenley-Walters

How long have you been a trader and do you enjoy it?
I became a market trader in May 2007, trading in Camden, Liverpool, Wythenshawe and Smithfields, and at various other markets across the UK.

Being a typical northerner I couldn't stay far from home for long periods at a time so I was always going back and forth. I found I was happiest selling my unique fashion finds here at home, and I still love what I do. The feeling I get when I've assisted a customer to make their purchase is second-to-none.

Why did you become a trader?
That's easy – because I wanted people in my local community to enjoy high fashion clothing and accessories at affordable prices. I wanted your everyday Mr n Mrs average to be able to look and feel expensive without breaking the bank. I also wanted to bring some exclusivity to our local area.

What do you sell?
Castro Dutch retails exclusive menswear such as Emperor Eternity, Shiroinekoi and Ruthless Art, to name just a few. Recently we have been proud to introduce The Dutchess which is high fashion costume jewellery for ladies. Later on this year we are hoping to introduce Castro Kidz, which will be funky skateboard retro lines for boys.

What is your most popular product?
The Dutchess has been very well received here at Gorton Market, so much so that we've just launched The Dutchess handbag and jewellery parties. This is where a customer can book us to come out to their homes. They invite their friends and family and we basically have a party. Guests can buy some new and exclusive jewellery, play games and we even have a designer handbag raffle where one lucky guest can win a handbag worth £80.

We are currently awaiting a new plus size/petite jewellery collection so that we can cater for everyone. I hate to turn away customers who have difficulty getting jewellery to fit. I want to be able to accommodate for each unique individual. We recently had bookings for a transsexual comedy act – rings, tiaras, glamorous bracelets, the lot, as we could cater for their for their unique sizes.

What are the challenges of market trading?
The trade itself. Markets are a dying breed compared to the high street. Attracting consumers back to the local markets is the only way traders will survive. The massive increase in consumer spending on the internet has impacted on us a great deal.

What’s the funniest thing that has happened whilst working on the market?
We have a lot of candid moments, really. My fave is always with an old regular to the market. This senior gentleman has an eye for the ladies and never fails to create a few giggles with his corny chat up lines.

What is the best thing about being a market trader?
For me it's sharing my passion for fashion. We get challenged every day to find something new and exciting for customers. Best of all I love to see the satisfaction on the customers' faces as they leave Castro Dutch.

I also get to work alongside my mum and my partner which is lovely because without them I'd be well and truly lost. They act as Filofax, emotional support, and sounding boards. They're great.

Anything more you'd like to add?
Castro Dutch would like to thank all the loyal customers we've had to date, and to welcome in the new.

You can find us at Unit 11, Gorton Indoor Market. We offer exclusive men/teen boy fashion wear, ladies high fashion, and bespoke fashion jewellery. We now offer private handbag and jewellery/pamper parties which include a beauty therapist and a health and beauty advisor (fashion, beauty and well being) in one event.

If you would like further information about the above services, please feel free to contact Sharine on 0161 231 8559.