Stephils is in the business of making people happy. It’s a line of work that clearly agrees with Stephen and Hilda Di Mambro – the genial husband and wife team behind this gift packaging company.

Stephils is in the business of making people happy. It’s a line of work that clearly agrees with Stephen and Hilda Di Mambro – the genial husband and wife team behind this gift packaging company.

In an atmosphere as friendly and good-natured as you’ll find in any workplace, they produce an array of charming, hand-wrapped presents for the corporate market. Often to be found beneath the flurry of bows and trimming are some of their own handmade truffles.

One lady was so overcome on being presented with one of Stephils gift packages that she burst into tears of happiness.

“I really do love this work,” said Hilda. “It’s nice to know that we’re just here to make people happier and that our gifts bring joy.”

Hilda and Stephen, both 45-years-old, have been working together for 24 years now – all of them in impressive harmony.

“We just get on very well together,” explained Stephen. Hilda added: “We’re a good team.”

Previously, the couple ran Truffles Café Bar, in Bothwell. The gift packaging came along almost by accident.

“It started when I did some displays as window dressing for the café and people would ask, ‘Can I buy those? Did you study to learn gift wrapping?’” explained Hilda. “To me, it was just something I did.”

But the compliments soon inspired a fledgling business venture. The couple found, however, that corporate clients were some-times reluctant to place large orders while the business remained a sideline to the café.

So the Di Mambros decided to take the plunge and create Stephils. “It was a major decision to close down Truffles, but to do corporate work we knew we couldn’t run a café bar as well,” explained Hilda.

It was at this stage they contacted South Lanarkshire’s Economic Development Team. “They were wonderful – so willing to help,” said Hilda.

A property owned by South Lanarkshire Council was identified at Priestfield Industrial Estate, Blantyre. And the Economic Development Team helped the couple access a Property Grant to transform it to suit their requirements.

“Everything just gelled and fell into place,” said Hilda. “We couldn’t afford to waste any time and everyone helped to make the whole thing as smooth as possible.”

The plan now is to continue to grow the business and attract more custom. They already have staff lined up and plenty of extra capacity to ensure they cope as soon as the orders really start to roll in.

“We can supply small offices to large offices, hotels or requests for corporate entertainment. Some people use our gifts for staff presents or for customers,” said Hilda. “Different companies have different needs and we don’t turn away any business right down to a teeny chocolate box.”

Stephen added: “Our strength is our versatility. We will work with the client and either make up a gift ourselves or personalise something they already have.”

Stephils art is to turn chocolates, champagne, food hampers and plenty more into delightful gift bundles with an impact far beyond the simple product.

Hilda explained: “I have people say, ‘Can you make it look £100? But I only want to spend £40.’ And I’ll say, ‘That’s not a problem.’”

Stephils also produces bridal gift baskets and wedding fancies. “Often people will come in with a little bit of material they like and we take it from there,” said Hilda.

Once again, nothing is too much bother. “Every one is a challenge,” said Hilda. “But I love it!”

Business South Lanarkshire - Summer/ Autumn 2001

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