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Scottish Sun
06-08-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
I got straight As in my exams but teachers were WRONG telling me to go to uni – I became a millionaire without degree
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AS Scots across the country look at how to make the most of their exam results, one school drop out has urged teens not to feel pressured into going to university. Around 147,000 students learned their grades for Nationals, Highers and Advanced Highers yesterday. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Liv Conlon set up her business after leaving high school Credit: Liv Conlon 6 Liv was a straight A student but snubbed university to launch her dream business It can be an incredibly stressful time for those who didn't get the marks they wanted, but plenty of successful people have achieved great things without attending college or university. School drop out Liv Conlon, 26, from Bothwell, Lanarkshire, became a millionaire and is now running two seven-figure businesses after moving to Marbella in Spain. Here, Liv reveals all to Fabulous about her incredible career and her decision to snub further education. It's been 10 years since the entrepreneur sat her Highers and walked out the door knowing she wouldn't be going to university. She said: "I achieved brilliant results - four As and a B, which my teachers believed should have taken me to lecture halls - not running my own company, as was my goal. "Being my own boss was something I'd always wanted, and I launched my first business at the age of 13, importing and selling nail foils from China. I made £5,000, which was enough to invest in my first MacBook." At 16, Liv was ready to launch her first proper business - ThePropertyStagers which gives empty properties the show home look. The savvy teen had spotted a gap in the market when her mum, Ali, struggled to sell an empty house she'd bought at auction. Liv said: "I styled the property, staged it with furniture and accessories, and it sold in three days - above the asking price, with the buyer even paying extra for all the furniture. "One teacher at my school, who had never even taught me before, looked me straight in the eye and said 'You're making a big life decision, and you're calling it wrong'. I make £15k a MONTH doing a job most think they're too good for, you don't need qualifications & I choose my hours "Another told me 'Will this little interior design business really do very well?' "They didn't believe I was making a smart decision. But I did. And I've been proving them wrong ever since." From that point, Liv worked relentlessly. By 18, the company had hit £1 million in revenue. It's now the UK's most recommended staging company, furnishing more than 400 homes a year and winning 13 awards nationally and internationally in just six months. Today, at 26, the mum-of-one runs two seven-figure companies from her home in Marbella. Her second business, StagerBoss, is a coaching platform helping women launch and scale their own staging brands. She's also written two bestselling books, spoken on TEDx stages, dined with the Prime Minister, and launched a charity that helps young people build businesses of their own. "None of this would have been possible if I'd listened to my teachers' advice", Liv insists. "But this all began because I challenged the traditional path recommended by school ie university, job. 6 Liv now lives in Spain where she runs her businesses Credit: Liv Conlon 6 Teachers told Liv she was making a mistake by not going to university Credit: Supplied "Instead, I rewrote my future - and, as the Highers results are announced - I want more students to know they have options. Even if they have good grades, it doesn't mean they should go to university." She added: "This summer, thousands of young people will get their exam results. Some will be thrilled, others disappointed. "But here's what I want every young person to know: exam results don't define you. Your future doesn't depend on a piece of paper. It depends on your courage, your vision and your willingness to bet on yourself. "Ten years ago, I walked away from a system that didn't understand me. Today, I'm proud to be building something that helps others do the same. And to those teachers who said I was making the wrong call - I'm glad I didn't listen. Because they were wrong." Liv has now shared the eight things school taught her - that she had to unlearn with real life experience. School taught me that academic success was everything I was a straight-A student, and school made it clear that was my golden ticket to further education and 'success'. But in the past decade, being in business has taught me something different: that creativity, resourcefulness and emotional intelligence are what's really needed to make an impact. My exam results got me recognition in the classroom, but my adaptability and ideas built million-pound companies. School told me that everything rides on one big moment - one test, one exam, one shot At school, everything boiled down to a finish line - one exam, one result that defines you and your next steps, one shot to 'prove' yourself. It felt like training for a sprint. But business is more of a marathon. There's no single defining moment - just hundreds of micro-decisions that build up over time. Some of my decisions have been messy, and some have been incredible. But what matters isn't one perfect outcome - it's the stamina to keep showing up, testing, tweaking and trusting yourself. 6 Live bought her first MacBook at 16 for her business Credit: Supplied School taught me that being wrong was bad Being in business has taught me that failing fast is valuable. Some of my best ideas came after something went wrong. In school, you were penalised for mistakes. In business, mistakes are stepping stones. If you're not getting things wrong, you're not pushing hard enough. In business, success is about taking small, consistent actions every day. You don't get one exam - you get endless chances to refine, adapt and grow. When it comes to business, I've actually failed more times than I can count, but each failure gave me data. Each 'no' gave me direction to shift and pivot. It's the only way to learn and move on. School feared failure - it hangs everything on the success of an exam. Business depends on it. School rewarded me for staying in the lines I got good results at school because I followed the rules. But business rewards you for breaking them. The most successful entrepreneurs are the ones who challenge the status quo and find solutions no one else sees. I didn't build my business by asking for permission - I built it by being brave enough to think differently. School told me to raise my hand and wait In business, no one's going to give you permission. You have to create your own path. At 16, no one gave me a roadmap. I learned to lead even when I didn't feel ready. That initiative - stepping up when no one asks you to - is the difference between an idea and a legacy. School taught me that success meant being the best in the room Business taught me that success means being valuable. It's about solving real problems, building trust, and helping people. I'm not successful because I got perfect marks - I'm successful because I built a company that serves people and solves their pain points. 6 Liv's written books to help others achieve success Credit: Supplied School made everything about individual achievement But business is a team sport. I couldn't have built my businesses without the incredible people around me - especially my mum, Ali, who's been by my side from day one. Delegation, leadership and collaboration are essential. School never taught me that managing a team is often harder than doing the work yourself. School taught me to chase the right answers But in business, you have to get comfortable asking the right questions. There's rarely a clear answer, and that's where the opportunity is. The sooner you stop seeking perfection and start seeking understanding, the faster you grow. If I'd followed the advice of my teachers, I wouldn't be where I am today. I'd have taken on student debt, waited years to enter the business world, and likely missed the window where my age, my energy and my ideas could have created real disruption. Instead, I started young, made big mistakes early, and learned faster than any degree could have taught me. And this isn't just about me. I've now helped thousands of women build their own businesses and change their lives. Through StagerBoss and my charity, Too Big For Your Boots, I'm proving that you don't need a university degree to be successful - you need belief, strategy and resilience.
Daily Mail
12-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Property expert reveals ten things homeowners can do on the cheap (or for free) right now to add value to their home in time for a summer sale
A property expert has revealed her top tips for homeowners looking to sell their homes this summer. Liv Conlon, 26, originally from Glasgow, runs an award-winning property staging business that furnishes over 400 homes a year to make them more appealing to potential buyers, as well as StagerBoss - a coaching business that teaches other women how to do the same. This summer, experts are predicting a summertime boom with increased interest from potential buyers, Liv explained, adding that property prices are also expected to rise. However, she added, 'This doesn't mean your house sale is guaranteed - nor that you'll be able to sell it at the fee you want for it, or even above. 'As the CEO of a multi-award-winning property staging business, ThePropertyStagers, this is where my expertise comes in. I've helped thousands of homeowners sell their homes faster and for above the asking price. 'Whether you have a sprawling garden or a cosy top-floor flat with no outdoor space, summer is the season to make the most of your entire home. 'This doesn't have to mean expensive renovations or a full décor overhaul. Sometimes, small, inexpensive changes can have the biggest impact.' As such, Liv, who now lives in Marbella, has shared her top ten affordable furnishing tips that might help a home stand out from the crowd. First, property expert Liv advised sellers to switch up soft furnishings inside the home. She said, 'One of the quickest ways to signal a new season is with your textiles. Swap heavy throws and dark cushions for lighter, brighter options. 'Think jewel-toned velvets for a bold look or soft lavenders, pale greens, and sunshine yellows for a subtler summer palette. Lightweight linen or cotton fabrics also keep your space feeling breezy and fresh.' Next, she said seasonal tableware can make a world of a difference in creating a summer haven. 'You don't need a garden to embrace alfresco vibes,' she said, adding, 'Treat yourself to colourful outdoor-style tableware - melamine plates, acrylic tumblers, or bamboo salad bowls - that feel fun, casual, and summery. 'Lay your table with a vibrant runner, some woven placemats and enjoy meals that feel like mini holidays.' Liv also said that adding fresh or faux flowers in every room can help attract potential buyers. She said, 'Flowers are the ultimate seasonal refresh. Dot fresh blooms around your home - in the hallway, on coffee tables, even the bathroom. She urged those looking to sell their homes to refresh their furnishings to help attract potential buyers 'If you're on a budget or want longevity, high-quality faux stems can have the same uplifting effect and last all summer long.' Liv's fourth tip was to alter the scent of the home depending on the season, adding that it's a 'powerful' tool. She said, 'Swap out woody or spiced winter candles for fresh citrus, coconut, sea salt or fig-inspired fragrances. 'A diffuser or a few scented tealights in summery notes can subtly transform the atmosphere of your space.' Liv's next tip explained the importance of using mirrors to reflect natural light during the summertime. She said, 'Summer is all about sunshine. Reflect more natural light by adding mirrors to darker corners, or repositioning existing ones to catch the morning or evening light. 'You could even pick up inexpensive stick-on mirror tiles to create a bespoke reflective feature wall.' Liv also provided five tips that might help improve the appearance of outdoor space, including refreshing outdoor cushions. She said, 'Outdoor cushions take a beating in the elements, so if yours are faded or stained, it's time for a quick revamp. 'Look for affordable cushion covers in bold stripes, tropical prints, or Mediterranean-inspired patterns. Even a new set of ties or trims can make existing cushions feel brand new.' Liv added that colourful glassware can also help draw positive attention. 'Whether it's a balcony, a courtyard, or a full patio, adding a splash of colour to your outdoor dining setup goes a long way. 'Think coloured glass tumblers, carafes, or even mismatched vintage finds. They sparkle in the sunlight and create an instant sense of celebration. Next, Liv added some simple steps to help homeowners revive tired outdoor furniture without having to splash out on new items. She said, 'A quick scrub-down with soapy water, a coat of spray paint in a bold hue, or a wood stain refresher can make old chairs or benches look brand new. Add a throw or outdoor blanket to soften the space.' Liv also advised homeowners to introduce solar lighting. She said, 'Create evening magic with inexpensive solar lanterns, string lights or LED tea lights. 'Line a path, hang lights in a tree, or dot them around your balcony railing. They're budget-friendly, eco-conscious and they extend your summer evenings outdoors. The property expert's last piece of advice was for homeowners to 'plant with personality'. She said, 'If you don't have a garden, try window boxes, balcony pots, or even a vertical planter. 'Look for bright flowers like geraniums, petunias, or marigolds - or go for herbs like basil and mint that are both beautiful and practical. Upcycle old tins or baskets into quirky planters for added charm. 'Summer is about creating spaces that invite you to relax, unwind and enjoy. Whether you're sipping spritzers on a patio or lounging under a fan in a studio flat, these simple updates can breathe fresh life into your home.
The Sun
12-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
I'm a property expert, these 10 easy hacks add value to your home including one trick that costs just £3
JUNE is a popular time for people to move home, hopeful of being settled before the new school term. But making sure you get the most out of a move can be stressful. 5 However, property expert Liv Conlon - who stages homes for a living - has shared her essential 10 tips for boosting value. And some cost just pennies but can had hundreds to the asking price. Liv, 26, is the CEO of multi-award-winning which furnishes more than 400 homes a year, as well as a StagerBoss - a coaching business teaching other women how to do the same. The Scots mum, who was brought up in Glasgow and now lives in Marbella with son Cash and mum Ali, says: "From posh pillows to hotel-style bedding, the right styling can make buyers fall in love and nudge them above the asking price. "So before you stick up the For Sale sign, check out these smart, simple ways to get buyers battling to pay more than the asking price." FIRST IMPRESSIONS A buyer decides in 10 seconds whether they are going to buy your home or not - so your entrance and hallway need to make a good first impression. Make it warm and welcoming. Buy a new door mat that's only used for viewings, with no dirty shoe marks, and place two identical plants at either side of the door - which is either clean, new or given a lick of paint. Opt for colours such as black or navy blue so it looks 'classy', rather than something more 'out there'. Clear away the clutter, and lose the smelly shoes and dumped coats. LIVING ROOM VISION The living room is the heart of the home - and buyers know it. It's where they picture relaxing with a glass of wine, watching TV, or hosting friends. Teachers told me I was runing my life leaving school at 16, now I run a seven-figure business Get this room wrong and you risk turning off even the most interested buyer. Make it feel spacious but not sterile, styled but still homely. Pull sofas away from the walls to create cosy conversation zones, and use a large rug to anchor the space - this helps define it and adds warmth. Then ditch harsh overhead lights and go for soft lamps, layered lighting and oversized accessories to give a sense of luxury. Use neutral tones for your sofa and walls, then add depth with textured throws, scatter cushions and artwork. GO BIG Tiny trinkets and dinky lamps really don't cut it when you're trying to wow a buyer. One of the biggest styling mistakes sellers make is going too small with their accessories - it makes your home look underwhelming. 5 If you want to create that lux, showhome feel, size matters. Think big and bold. Oversized lamps on side tables make a dramatic statement, especially when paired with plush sofas or layered cushions. Chunky candlesticks, large framed art or statement vases add instant impact - and make the space feel styled, not stuffed. DON'T LOO-SE OUT Bathrooms are an important room but are often forgotten about when it comes to staging. The key to success with styling this room is to compliment not clutter. You can do this by adding simple styling accessories, layers and textures. Consider pops of colour in your accessories, such as a soap dispenser or a toothbrush holder, which you can pick up for as little as £3 in places like Home Bargains. This draws the eye and helps your images jump off the page. Add textures with towels and bath mats, but also through the type of glass or ceramic in your accessories. Small touches can have a big impact. RIGHT RUG Rugs are the unsung heroes of home staging - they define spaces, add texture and instantly warm up any room. In large, open-plan layouts, rugs create natural boundaries between living, dining and kitchen zones, making the space feel organised and inviting. Don't overlook the 'forgotten' spaces - utility rooms, hallways or entryways can be transformed with a well-chosen rug to feel cosy and purposeful. Rugs can tie together the design elements, especially through colour and texture, in a space while providing a cosy and inviting atmosphere. They can also significantly reduce noise levels by absorbing sound - a quieter home is always more appealing to buyers. ALL WHITE Five-star hotels use crisp, white bedding for a reason, as it exudes luxury and cleanliness, and it immediately puts a viewer at ease. Patterned or busy linens can feel cluttered and overly personal, turning off potential buyers. Investing in high-quality, bright white sheets creates a serene, spa-like oasis that invites buyers to imagine themselves unwinding there. The clean, neutral backdrop also lets you introduce pops of colour and texture with cushions and throws - easy updates that make the room feel stylish without overwhelming the senses. GET DRESSED Layering is the secret to making your home feel styled, warm and high-end - without overdoing it. In the bedroom, start with white sheets, then double up on duvets: one laid flat, the second folded neatly at the end for a boutique hotel look. Use feather insert cushions -not flat polyfills - and build texture with velvet throws, faux fur or quilted finishes. In the living room, mix cushion sizes and textures on your sofa - linen, boucle, chunky knit - to add depth. Coffee tables and sideboards should be styled too: think a stack of hardback books, a sculptural candle and one standout vase. Keep it intentional, not cluttered. STAR OF THE SHOW Not much beats getting ready at a dressing table. The feeling of space and time - rather than catching a quick glimpse in the closet mirror before rushing out the front door. Create that same feeling in your bedroom by setting up a designated space in your bedroom to put on make-up and style your hair. This can be a dual purpose area that could also double up as a work from home space too. To add real luxury, add a table standing mirror, and opt for a mirrored dressing table if your budget allows. CLEAR OFF Nothing puts buyers off faster than clutter. It makes rooms feel smaller and chaotic. When people view your home, they're not just looking at the space - they're imagining their life in it. That's hard to do if every surface is piled high with post, toys or toiletries. Start by stripping back. Clear kitchen worktops, bedside tables and bathroom counters. Invest in clever storage: ottomans with lift-up lids, under-bed boxes and baskets for toys or blankets. Hide away anything personal or bulky. Less stuff equals more space. MIRROR IMAGE Create symmetry in your rooms with matching bedside tables on either side of the bed. Not only does this add practicality and storage, but it instantly makes the room feel more polished. Then, top each table with oversized, identical lamps - these create drama and a high-end vibe without breaking the bank. Symmetry tricks the eye into seeing order and elegance, making your bedroom feel like a five-star retreat buyers won't forget.
