She has survived breast cancer and is still recovering from a spinal injury.
Having faced such tough times, Katey Ellis knows how small, positive things can make a big difference.
So Miss Ellis, 52, has opened JJ’s in Norwich Street, Fakenham, giving everyone the chance to feel special by hiring or buying unique dresses and outfits.
Miss Ellis said she had been made feel welcome in the town since opening on October 21.
It is her first venture back into business after selling her Cromer cafe, also called JJ's, after her cancer diagnosis.
“I realised quickly I would never be able to run the cafe again and I was looking around for what business I could do,” she said.
“I wanted to put something in Fakenham which offers everyone the chance to feel like a princess for the day.
"Everyone deserves to feel special, and I wanted them to have the chance, even on a budget."
People can either buy the dress outright or hire with a minimum buy-back on the clothes.
Worn items will then become cheaper - with the more pre-loved, the less it will cost.
Her current stock includes a beaded dress from the 1920s, 1940s and 1950s dresses, and even a polka dot dress similar to that worn by Julia Roberts in the film Pretty Woman.
There are dresses suitable for weddings, christenings and the races - with prom dresses coming into stock shortly. Miss Ellis also hopes to launch a men’s section.
She said she also wanted to join forces with other Fakenham business owners to organise events, to help the town centre thrive.
She said: “Fakenham just needs a little kick. If we all work together, and if people could be a little more positive then we could get Fakenham to be a real thriving town again."
The shop is open to the public for five hours a day, allowing extra time for the shop to be booked out for private fittings.
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