Heather Lund Truter has been working Jozi’s competitive fabric scene since 2009. She has given the fabric and décor industry a shake up with a concept store that’s wrapped up in gorgeous fabric, with affordable prices and exemplary levels of service.

A glass of bubbly on a deck overlooking the ocean in Plettenberg Bay back in July 2009 was inspiration enough for private banker Heather to take a leap of faith and pack in a ten year career with Nedbank.

‘It was all about following a dream. I had no business plan, no background in the industry; I just had this enormous energy (and my entire pension fund invested in it!) to make it work.'

‘My B.Com Accounts aside, I have always had a passion for décor and beautiful fabrics. Building and decorating a home and then selling it on has become a bit of a hobby – in fact, I am on my fifth house in ten years!'

‘Once I’d made the decision, the universe just worked for me. I got back from holiday and walked the streets of Kramerville to find a suitable location. I was told I would battle to find a good spot but then the place next door to St Leger and Viney was available from 1 August. I signed the lease on 30 July2009 and resigned on 31 July!'

A huge number of private clients, designers and decorators are so glad she did. The joy of Exquisite Cuts is the instant gratification. What you see is what you can take home, then and there. Heather sources her gourmet stock (as she calls it) from top-end local and international fabric houses, manufacturers, and textile converters which are then sold by weight or length. 

The shop started out in 2009 as The Fabric House, but in 2013 Heather rebranded to become Exquisite Cuts. Like the brand the store has also evolved to meet client’s needs over the years.

It started by only selling fabric but now it also offers ready-made curtains, scatter cushions and an ever-changing selection of interesting, well-priced décor items. She has built up a small selection of quality suppliers (like a talented curtain maker) all of whom are black entrepreneurs.

A significant percentage of Heather’s sales are repeat business and many of her clients have become friends.