It’s our first birthday! I can’t believe it, the shop has been open one year. What a journey it has been! So much learning, growing and adapting has gone on over the last 12 months it’s quite hard to take it all in.
On the whole our first year has been a roaring success. Having gone from a standing start to now feeling well and truly like part of the furniture in Woodhouse Eaves. We have a very loyal following and wonderful customers. The support we have received from everyone has been amazing, especially in the village itself and all the neighbouring villages of course. Don’t get me wrong, we’ve had some downs too. Last month was the toughest to date. I am not sure if it’s Brexit (or lack of), the abundance of bank holidays we’ve had, or being 9 months pregnant (more than likely it’s an amalgamation of all three). Although it has to be said, the up's and down's are part of what I love about business. Everyday I am faced with challenges and wake-up wanting to keep striving forward and growing.
Looking back on our first year;
We have had the likes of wreath and candle making sell out in the same day we put them online, to taking on our first employee. I am honestly so grateful for all the support! We have hosted pottery throwing, macramé making, chunky knitting workshops and calligraphy classes. There has been so many lovely individuals come though the shop doors and it’s been a genuine pleasure to spend so much time with you all. In the last 12 months we have double the number of makers we started with and increased our range. We were also nominated for The Muddy Stilettos Awards for Best Interiors Shop. We made it through to the final 5 in the whole of Leicestershire and Rutland! Although we didn’t win, I never imagined we would have even got through to this stage. Next year the aim is to move up through The Muddy Stilettos rankings. Further champion all things handmade, sustainable and ethically made. Host more workshops and Just maybe take The Home of Handmade on the road to meet more people! Watch this space!
Soo to say a big fat thank you we are hosting a party! And because it’s the Open Gardens in the village and British flower week we are taking full advantage and getting in on the prettiness. From Thursday we’re collaborating with Essentially Floral – a luxury florist who will be decorating our window. Jilly from Essentially Floral will have bouquets and plants for sale in the shop, whilst taking over our upstairs area for demonstrations and floral arrangements.
And it wouldn’t be a birthday without some bubbles and presents so pop along for a little treat in the shop on 1
st and 2
ndJune. Keep your eyes peeled on our social media channel too (
@the.home.of.handamde) as we are doing a giveaway. If you’re not a local and can’t join in on the shop party there will be a little online treat for you too! So, with a baby on the way and it’s due date the exact date I opened the shop doors for the very first time last year I hope you can all celebrate with me this coming weekend! Once more thank you so much for your love and support it really has meant the world to me! Big Love! Alex X
