I was asked this recently and you might be surprised how a business started with such a simple request from my Sister for a version of a jewelled headband she loved from the USA. Not a problem I said, I can do that.
Back then I had no idea it would grow into a range, a website, an Instagram page and that I would be writing to you, even though having a brand was an ambition since I was a teenager.
So a few years ago I bought some glass gems, a bit of velvet, found my sewing kit, beads in the loft and got to work. At this stage it was just lovely to start sewing and creating again. It turned out really well so then my Niece said she would like a version in pink too please and so it began.
I’d previously worked in textile design, particularly embroidered designs and then fashion costume jewellery design for the High Street. I’m totally not saying after 30 plus years of being a creative that I had a house full of supplies, fabric, buttons, threads, beads and jewellery, which may have moved house multiple times with me!
Having worked commercially I wanted this business to go back to my handmade days, producing one off designs rather than a factory production run. I also wanted to use what I had already supplemented with a few new pieces, sourcing vintage jewellery and reclaimed haberdashery supplies too.
So it began, covering headbands in beautiful textiles then adding vintage brooches, buttons and beads to build up a design. Adding piece by piece to a headband, just as I’ve added to the business as it has progressed. Using old skills and learning new ones.
Each day brings a new challenge but also a lot of joy to be sewing again, combining my love of colour, textiles and jewellery.