A GRAPHIC designer from Catrine is hoping that his business connections can inspire more people to take the leap of faith and go it alone.

Christopher Harvey started up his own company, Clyne graphic designer, after falling in love with the work involved in the role.

The 21-year-old named his business after his auntie Carlynne, who sadly passed away last year, with Christopher describing it as "one of the most heart-breaking things I've ever had to deal with".

Since starting his business, Christopher has recently linked up with another local business owner, on what he called the biggest challenge he's had to take on.

He teamed up with Lisa Donaldson who owns the Totally Tanned studios in Cumnock and Catrine.

Christopher teamed up with Lisa Donaldson.Christopher teamed up with Lisa Donaldson (Image: Submitted) Lisa approached Christopher with the idea of launching a new beauty business, which led to them collaborating to create PHATanz.

It is a journey that he hopes can give prospective business owners the confidence to make the next step.

Christopher said: “I think this is a story that can show people around here that opportunities will come your way if you work for it.

“Lisa came to me with some ideas for the website and designs and we’ve gone from there.

“It was a huge project and I hadn’t done anything like that before, but I thought it was a challenge that I needed.

“She’s one of the most hard-working and dedicated women I know, and it’s been brilliant working with her so far and hopefully long into the future as well."

He hopes other future business owners can have the strength to go it alone.He hopes other future business owners can have the strength to go it alone (Image: Submitted) Working with Lisa has allowed Christopher to build on his skills, in an experience that he says has been so rewarding and mutually beneficial.

He added: “From growing one business into two and then starting up something brand new is so brave, and to incorporate another small business into the progression is amazing from Lisa.

“It can be hard starting up your business, but when other people who have been in the same situation are there to support you, it can make it all a lot easier.

“Hopefully somebody who is thinking about starting their own business can see the successes that can come from it, and have the bravery to go and take that leap.

"I can't thank Lisa enough for the original opportunity and for sticking with me.

"It's worked out well for us both, because she knows how I work and I know what she likes.

"Coming from small places like Cumnock and Catrine, working together can make everything so much more achievable.

“It’s so rewarding and all the hard work has been so worth it."