#FollowBizzi
Introducing Sharon McGillion, a passionate inventor and entrepreneur from Omagh, originally from Plumbridge. As a member of AwakenHub, Sharon brings her innovative spirit to the forefront with her company, Bizzi, and her unique product, Pressie Pouch. Sharon's journey reflects her determination and creativity, turning everyday challenges into groundbreaking solutions.
To get us started - how would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?
A serial inventor!
Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start it:
As a single mum often finding herself without wrapping paper, tape, or scissors while rushing to birthday parties with her 6-year-old son, I created Pressie Pouch. Pressie Pouch® is a unique gift bag collection made from high-quality gift wrap paper that simplifies gift-wrapping—just peel and seal! It's perfect for busy moms, safe for kids, and a lifesaver for those with hand issues.
The idea came to me during a chaotic moment when I needed to wrap a gift on the go. Realizing there was no product that combined wrapping, sealing, and labeling in one, I knew I was onto something. After many sleepless nights, the Pressie Pouch was born. Our pouches are designed for all occasions, available in three sizes, and are easy for anyone to use.
Tell us a little bit more about you:
I'm from the beautiful Glenelly near Plumbridge, Co. Tyrone. I'm a proud mum of one—Mark, now 21—and though I'm over 50, my passion for creativity and problem-solving hasn't diminished. I've always had a side hustle, even while working full-time in the public sector for the NHS. Recently, I qualified as a hairdresser and have identified a gap in the market for three hairdressing products I'm currently developing. Though not a full-time hairdresser, I love styling the hair of family and friends. I'm a firm believer in lifelong learning and upskilling, no matter your age. A friend once said, "No sentence should start with 'I should have...'," so I pursued my hairdressing training at night classes over two years.
Fill us in on your female founder journey:
My journey as a female founder has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows—filled with learning, networking, stress, success, and disappointments. But the experience of seeing my product on the shelves of major retailers like Easons across Ireland has been incredibly rewarding. Although I’ve faced challenges breaking into the US market, particularly with Product Route, I still believe that with the right team, this can be achieved.
How has being part of the AwakenHub community helped your business?
I've recently joined AwakenHub to connect with other female entrepreneurs. Over the past 15 years, I've met many inspiring people, and I hope to continue growing my network to bring my vision to reality.
We want to foster collaboration and support within our community. If you have a specific need or request, let us know so we can help each other out!
Yes, please! With Pressie Pouch already proven in retail, I would love to collaborate with a company or individual to get the small pouch retailed on an airline. Additionally, my three hair products are ready for investment! I'm currently working with Catalyst at Titanic Quarter Belfast to develop them further.
What values or principles do you live by?
I'm inspired by JK Rowling's story of persistence and resilience. As a young single mum with a dream, she didn't give up, and neither do I. I believe in hard work, hustle, and perseverance. No sentence should start with "I should have..."—just do it! Every day in business is a new challenge, but each day also offers a new beginning.
Where do you see yourself in 12 months and 5 years?
In 12 months, I hope to make a breakthrough with my products, ideally meeting someone with the business links and financial backing to bring at least one of my products to major markets.
Top startup book: Zero to One by Peter Thiel
Best podcast: Lex Fridman
Connect with Sharon:
Twitter: @bizzistationery
LinkedIn: Sharon McGillion
Facebook: Pressie Pouch
