New Tenant – Whimsy & Bloom

Describe your business 

I sell create engraved/cut designs. A lot of what I sell are personalised items for gifting, specifically aimed at parents and mothers to be. I also create bespoke items for weddings, for example table decorations, signage, favours etc  

 

Tell us a bit about your experience and the story behind why you started your business and the journey to where you are today What inspired and helped you? 

I’ve always loved creating and seeing the joy that one of my creations brings to someone. My dream has always been to start a business that allowed me to do this. It was quite random how I stumbled upon laser engraving however I love it. I love the process of having an idea in my head, putting it on paper then onto the laptop and eventually making it. It’s a lot of trial and error but I love when my ideas come to life, and I can then share them with others. Im also a mother to three girls so working for myself allows me to be a little more flexible, which is amazing.  

 

How will being based at Banks Mill help your business? 

Before moving to Banks Mill I was working from a small corner of my bedroom! It wasn’t the most practical of places to work and so Banks Mill has given me the opportunity to have the space I need to increase my workload. I can be more organised and it’s lovely to have a place of work to actually come to. Also, I now have my bedroom back to normal which is nice!   

 

What other work experience/support/training have you gained relevant to what you’re doing now? 

I’ve done a variation of different work over the last few years, to running bars and restaurants, working as a jewellery technician as well as a nanny. I’d say all of my previous jobs have provided me with relevant experience. 

 

What are you working on in the studio now? 

Right now I’m focusing on back to school items, for instance, first day at school plaques. As soon as everything is designed and mock ups made of those I’ll be making a start on planning for Halloween and Christmas. 

 

Tell us a bit about your work and techniques; how long a piece takes to complete? 

Once I have an item designed, its uploaded to the software we use with the laser cutter. Settings have to be played around with to ensure the item is engraved and cut correctly. Items can vary in length of time to complete depending on detail and size. Once they’re cut they’re then hand finished by sanding. Other embellishments are sometimes added (such as ribbon, vinyl) and then items are packaged.  

 

What are your plans for your business for the next 12 months? 

One of the first things I’d like to do is create a website. Everything I sell at the moment is through Etsy, so I’d like to get a website set up to run alongside this. I also want to put more effort into growing my socials, increasing the amount of items I have available and also look into more networking opportunities.