Blyth fashion boutique celebrates 21 years with brand-new showroom

Over two decades ago, Kay Norris-Ralph set out with a dream to launch a ladies clothing and accessories company named Madame Butterfly.

Starting out selling at family parties and local markets, the business quickly grew and Kay began developing her own ranges, going on to supply well-known department stores and independent boutiques.

During this time, Kay was travelling the world, developing her collections and finding inspiration for the distinct pieces which shaped the brand.

"I decided go to Hong Kong Fashion Week and I designed my own range,” she said.

“And that was it really, it was unbelievable. We had people queuing for the stock. We sold out of everything within the first day.”

In 2009, after having her first child, Kay settled down and opened up a boutique in Newcastle’s Grainer Market before opening a second Newcastle store.

The shops were a success for a number of years however after the Covid-19 pandemic, Kay moved the business back home to Blyth.

She took on a unit at Riverside Business Park and focused on shipping orders around the world, as well as operating a small showroom where locals could see the collections in person.

Now, having outgrown this space, Madame Butterfly is moving to another, larger space just next door as the team celebrates 21 years.

“The most important thing I think in business is you have to be able to adapt. I feel like it's time for a new, fresh revamped showroom.

“It's a chance for another new chapter.”

The new showroom will officially open on Saturday, September 12 alongside a brand-new collection designed by Kay herself.

Kay gives credit to her family, friends and loyal customers for helping the business to survive and flourish for so long.

“When we get a new customer, they stay with us forever,” she said. “We've got customers all over America, Australia, Ireland, Spain. We ship every single day, all over the world.

“We're part of a huge community of women who have become friends with each other as well.

“The staff are all so passionate too. I think when you're just working in a small team, everybody's so proud.”