From Lockdown Hobby to Thriving Highland Business

Published: 29 June 2026

Interior of garden workshop

What began as a way to stay creative during lockdown has grown into a successful and expanding business for Invergordon-based entrepreneur Emma Wood.  

Founded in 2024, Emma’s Vinyls & More specialises in bespoke vinyl products and personalised gifts, attracting a loyal customer base through social media, local craft fairs and word-of-mouth recommendations. The business has recently entered an exciting new phase of growth following the construction of a purpose-built garden workshop.

Highland Opportunity (Investments) Limited (HOIL) has provided loan assistance to Emma’s Vinyls & More to support the continued development and growth of the business.  HOIL, The Highland Council’s business loan company, offers flexible financial support to Highland‑based businesses and community organisations, delivering straightforward loan conditions and tailored funding packages designed to help organisations realise their ambitions.

The new garden workshop represents a significant step forward for Emma’s Vinyls & More. Designed as a dedicated creative hub, it allows Emma to increase production capacity, streamline operations, and work more efficiently. With improved workspace and storage, the business is now better equipped to meet rising customer demand and reduce turnaround times. The expansion also frees up valuable household space and lays the groundwork for potential future staff recruitment as the business continues to grow.

Owned and operated by Emma Wood, Emma’s Vinyls & More offers a distinctive range of custom vinyl products, including drinkware, home décor, and personalised gifts for all occasions. Emma has shown strong entrepreneurial flair and a clear understanding of her market, successfully transforming a home-based hobby into a viable and growing enterprise. With a strong foundation and clear growth trajectory, the business is well positioned for continued success within the Highland region.

HOIL Director Councillor Tamala Collier said: "At HOIL, we are committed to supporting Highland businesses at every stage of their development. Access to flexible finance can often be the difference between an idea remaining a dream and becoming a successful reality. We are proud to have supported Emma's Vinyls & More with this investment and look forward to seeing the business continue to flourish. Our aim is to help local businesses unlock their potential, create opportunities and contribute to a vibrant and resilient Highland economy."

Emma said:  “Receiving loan assistance from HOIL has been a huge milestone for my business. Before installing the summer house workspace, I had completely outgrown the small room I was working from at home. Space was becoming a real challenge, limiting both productivity and creativity as the business continued to grow.  This loan has allowed me to create a dedicated workspace that has transformed how I operate.  

“Having a larger, purpose-built environment has improved efficiency, given me room to expand my equipment and stock and provided a creative space, where I can develop new ideas and products.  It has also enabled me to better serve my customers and continue growing the business with confidence. I am incredibly grateful to HOIL for their support. Their investment in small businesses like mine makes a real difference, and this loan has helped me take Emma’s Vinyls and More to the next level.  The new workspace has not only strengthened the business but has also given me the freedom and inspiration to be more creative and ambitious for the future.”

To find out more about the support HOIL can provide businesses with visit their website  or email