TWO MOTHERS are celebrating the success of their online venture after dreaming up their business plan outside the school gates.
Nicola Smith, of Studley, and Louise Reddington-Blyth, of Winyates Green, came up with the idea of launching their own company on the school run as they dropped their children off at Studley St Mary’s Church of England Academy.
Since that initial conversation in June, ‘A Handcrafted Marketplace’ has gone from strength to strength following its launch on October 1.
The site offers exclusive and handmade gifts with a twist – you can watch a video of the crafter be interviewed about their inspiration and find out exactly how the product is made.
While Nicola works behind the scenes Louise, a jewellery maker, plays host to the sellers via a video link – interviewing them from her own home.
“It’s a great partnership,” she said. “I always think that if you like someone you will buy from them and through our site we introduce the buyer to the seller.”
A Handcrafted Marketplace offers creations from a range of independent makers and artisans, specialising in areas including jewellery, textiles, toys and ceramics.
However savvy shoppers after that exclusive Christmas gift must move fast as seasonal sales must be completed by December 16 in time for the goods to be made and shipped.
Nicola added: “ We currently have 15 sellers, with some from as far afield as Wales and Scotland, essentially it’s A Handcrafted Marketplace – because we love handmade.”
For more information visit www.ahandcraftedmarketplace.co.uk .
