After 12 years of service in the Royal Navy, Warfare Officer Emily Witcher decided it was time for a new chapter…
Having navigated ships across the world and specialised in pilotage, Emily Witcher left the Royal Navy in May 2025 determined to pursue her long-standing passion for art and creativity.
“I loved my time in the Navy, it gave me so much,” Emily explains. “But after 12 years at sea, I wanted a more settled life. I’d always been creative, ever since I was a child, and I knew it was time to let that side of me come to the fore.”
This decision led to the creation of Emily Rose Fine Art & Framing, based in Hereford on the Welsh border.
Learning and Support
Emily’s entrepreneurial journey was supported by the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) Self-Employment Pathway, delivered by X-Forces Enterprise (XFE). From the outset, she was clear that self-employment was the route she wanted to follow.
“As soon as I put my notice in, I knew I wanted to work for myself. I went into the CTP Self-Employment Awareness Workshop determined to learn as much as possible, and signed up for as many XFE events as I could. The support was fantastic and gave me the confidence to start planning properly.”
With encouragement and guidance, Emily began developing her business model, focusing on both her fine art commissions and bespoke picture framing services.
Building the Business
Starting from a home-based workshop, Emily quickly established her niche. Her fine art specialises in military commemorative pieces, while her framing service offers a sustainable twist: reusing and restoring old frames sourced from markets and auctions.
“My aim is to give new life to old frames, and eventually I want to expand into antique frame restoration,” she says.
To build awareness, Emily has been proactive in her marketing, from crafting press releases and organising a launch event, to giving local talks, attending community gatherings, and engaging with the veteran network:
“I’m doing everything from local craft fairs to military showcases, and invited local leaders, including the Mayor and MP, to my launch. I also want to give back by offering talks to others leaving the military about the realities of starting a business.”
Her business website www.emilyroseframing.co.uk was launched alongside her physical services, supported by a strong Instagram presence.
Looking Ahead
Emily has ambitious plans for the future. Within a year, she hopes to move into dedicated premises, take on an apprentice, and scale her operations to meet growing demand.
“I’ve already registered for VAT because I fully intend to hit a first-year turnover above £90,000. For me, it’s about setting clear goals and working towards them.”
Lived Experience
Reflecting on her journey so far, Emily offers clear advice to other Service Leavers considering self-employment:
- Get a good accountant early: “Even if you’re just exploring the idea, most offer a free consultation. The advice will save you time, stress, and money in the long run.”
- Don’t underestimate how quickly resettlement goes by: “If you want to start a business, use the time wisely and put as much in place as you can before you leave.”
- Take advantage of workshops and support: “The CTP Self-Employment Pathway and XFE Masterclasses were game-changing for me.”
- Use the veteran network: “The community is so supportive. Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and share your ideas.”
Navigating Success
From navigating ships at sea to navigating entrepreneurship, Emily’s journey shows what is possible with passion, planning, and the right support. With the help of the Career Transition Partnership and X-Forces Enterprise, she has transformed her creative ambitions into a business that is both personal and commercial: a wonderful example of what the Armed Forces community can achieve.
Find many more stories of entrepreneurial success at www.x-forces.com
