Twin teenage entrepreneurs launch first Swindon housing portal
The first dedicated property magazine and website for Swindon has been launched by twin teenage entrepreneurs.
Wigwam – which is available in limited numbers in high-quality print and is free to read online – is the brainchild of 19-year-old Mia and Ella Sandhu.
The pair have engaged the design, print and marketing expertise of their dad, Nathan Sandhu – founder of Swindon-based branding consultants Jazzbones – with articles written by in-house copywriter Jeff King, who takes the position of editor at the publication.
Mia and Ella launched Wigwam just as the property market went into lockdown – but kept spirits high with inspirational property-related social media content and are now riding the crest of the wave as the sector comes out of limbo.
Designed to be sophisticated, glamorous and glossy with a high-end feel, the magazine features commercial and domestic property news, expert interviews, and other curated content including interior design tips and trends.
The sisters are also offering free promotional space on their site to charities and good causes to further foster the idea of community.
Mia, who is currently studying BSc human geography at Cardiff University, said: "Swindon has one of the UK’s fastest-growing populations, currently at 220,000. But while there are lots of news platforms for Swindon, none really offer a specific property service focussed on the area. Wigwam seeks to fill this gap in the market."
Ella, who is currently studying BSc economics at the University of Reading, said: "We chose the name Wigwam because it is memorable and – as a dome-shaped house built by American First Nation tribes – has obvious relevance to the housing market. The Native Americans a great sense of community, which is what we are trying to build across the property sector in Swindon."
The publication has been well received by property professionals, with early support coming from estate agents Alan Hawkins, Moovahome, Dewhurst & Co, and Richard James, and interior designers Pepper & Co, and building contractors Austen Dawson among others.
