Stephanie Costigan

Commercially minded Business Partner and Visual Merchandiser with extensive experience across fashion, home, and lifestyle retail. Responsible for the day-to-day running and performance of an independent retail business while creating engaging window and in-store displays that enhance brand presentation, customer experience, and sales. Combines strong operational awareness with creative product styling, stock management, and high visual standards to deliver a successful and visually compelling retail environment.

Partner - Yum Lush - Newcastle upon Tyne

(2024-10)

• Lead all window and in-store visual merchandising, creating seasonal and trend-led displays that enhance customer engagement and support sales
• Style home, lifestyle, and fashion products to maximise visual and commercial impact
• Plan and refresh shop floor layouts to improve space use, product visibility, and customer flow
• Manage day-to-day retail operations including opening/closing, stock management, and maintaining high store standards
• Work closely with suppliers and buyers to coordinate new stock launches and promotional activity
• Share responsibility for overall business performance, balancing creative direction with commercial decision-making

Boutique Owner - Eva Boutique - Newcastle upon Tyne

(2019-10 - 2024-10)

Owned and managed an independent retail boutique, overseeing all aspects of daily operations and sales performance

• Created visual merchandising concepts, window displays, and in-store styling to attract customers and increase sales
• Managed buying, stock control, pricing, and supplier relationships
• Delivered high levels of customer service and built strong repeat customer relationships
• Handled cash management, administration, and store compliance

Career Break – Family Responsibilities

(2015-02 - 2019-10)

Maintained strong organisational, time management, and multitasking skills while managing household and family commitments

Cabin Crew - Flybe - Newcastle upon Tyne

(2008-03 - 2015-02)

Delivered exceptional customer service in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment

• Managed passenger needs, onboard sales, and compliance with aviation safety procedures
• Worked as part of a team to ensure efficient and professional service

Sales Assistant - Coast - Newcastle upon Tyne

(2006-01 - 2007-05)

Provided personalised customer service and styling advice in a fashion retail environment

• Supported visual merchandising standards and stock presentation
• Assisted with sales transactions and daily store operations

Cabin Crew - Thomas Cook - Newcastle upon Tyne

(2005-05 - 2007-05)

Delivered onboard customer service and ensured passenger safety compliance

• Supported retail sales and teamwork within a busy travel environment

Sales Assistant - Coast - Newcastle upon Tyne

(2005-05 - 2006-06)

Assisted customers with styling, fittings, and product selection

• Maintained visual merchandising standards and organised stock areas

Make-up Consultant - Virgin Cosmetic Company - Newcastle upon Tyne

(1998-04 - 2006-06)

Provided personalised beauty consultations and product recommendations

• Achieved sales targets through customer engagement and product knowledge
• Maintained high visual presentation of counters and displays

Make-up Consultant - Estée Lauder - Newcastle upon Tyne

(1993-10 - 1998-04)

Delivered professional beauty consultations and skincare advice

• Supported visual merchandising of counters and promotional displays
• Built strong customer relationships to encourage repeat business

NVQ Level 2 - Beauty Therapy - Newcastle College (1998-09 - 1999-06)

BTEC Level 3 - Travel & Tourism - North Tyneside College (1990-09 - 1992-07)

GCSE - Sacred Heart Catholic High School (1985-07 - 1990-09)