A quick round up and A Happy Christmas!

The run up to Christmas (only 1 day left before the children break up) is an opportunity to reflect on the highlights of this year whilst trying to ignore the lists of things still to do! 

HatStock in March was a good focus for Springtime and a particular joy was having many family member and friends that came along to support me. Having begun my Millinery training at Hat Works, it was exciting to return to show my work there and even better to sell a piece to Georgina Abbot of London Hat week.

Dad and me with the "Arc" headpiece that I sold.

In June I did a 2 day intensive boot camp business course at MMU which resulted in me acquiring a mentor called Naomi Timperley. She is a specialist in brand development network building and is a valuable source of encouragement and advice when I’m finding things difficult.  

Catching up with an old Millinery friend in July was a highlight especially when it turned out that her son was due to get married and she needed a hat! I felt very privileged to make this for Sue who spent many years selling and helping design hats when she managed Susy Krakowski Millinery in Wilmslow where I did some work experience during my degree. 

Sue on the right, with her daughter Kerry.

Organising my first professional photo shoot was a goal for this year and I used a company that specialises in photographing headwear. I used the images on my stand at GNNCF as well on my website and in other marketing; everyone says good photos make a big difference and I think these prove it!

Photo by Hatshooter

Looking forward to next year now and I’ve just found out that my work has been selected to be shown at the London Hat Week exhibition in March-great news!

In actual fact now that I look back over this year there's many things that I've accomplished. Despite the challenges that arise in doing things for the first time and putting yourself out of your comfort zone; the end result is worth it and I appreciate the opportunities that having my own studio and business bring. 

I’m lucky to have made many new acquaintances this year and would like to wish everyone who has helped and supported me and my business over the last 12 months a very happy Christmas and 2018 ..and a big thank you!