THREE Yorkshire-based small businesses put their creative heads together to take on the challenge of recreating an image that got everyone talking about the Chelsea Flower Show; Princess Charlotte on the rope swing in the Duchess’s woodland garden.

According to the Office for National Statistics only 50 per cent of businesses in Britain are expected to survive their fourth year. It can be tempting therefore to adopt a dog-eat-dog approach when it comes to marketing and sales strategy. However, three businesswomen found there another way: standing shoulder to shoulder, rather than head-to-head.

The three women, who recently met at a workshop organised by YorksInstameet, all run a small business in Yorkshire. They are Alex Napier, owner of Peter Pan’s Wardrobe, where she designs and makes timeless girl’s clothing, from babies up to five years, in contemporary and classic style and made from 100 per cent cotton.

Karen Griggs, runs Old Forge York, offering luxury accommodation and events in stunning gardens. Guests are encouraged to experience everything available on site including the hens, vegetable patch and cooking on a camp fire.

Heather Cumpstone is one half of Land of Rope and Glory in Wensleydale, where she designs and makes modern country-inspired homeware from baskets and bowls to bathroom fittings.

Alex and Karen originally teamed up to stage a photo shoot of Peter Pans Wardrobe’s summer collection, using Emma Parslow, of Little Sixpence Photography. After discussion with Heather, they came up with a focal point for the photo shoot – to use one of Land of Rope and Glory’s royal-inspired rope swings to replicate the photo of Princess Charlotte at the Chelsea Flower Show?

Using social media, they launched a giveaway to find young models to be part of the photoshoot, with five girls from Liverpool and across Yorkshire selected and treated to a magical day.

The team were thrilled with the outcome. “This shot encapsulates the vision behind all three brands involved,” said Heather from Land of Rope & Glory.

“The climate for small business is changing with increasing opportunities to choose camaraderie over competition; pooling resources and promoting the profile of independent brands across the retail sector.

“It’s an approach to business that can only strengthen and enhance the economic landscape of Britain.”

For more info on the Yorkshire-based small businesses involved: see their individual websites.