What I Think Should Be Trending Right Now!
Forget the latest trends, must-have colours and whatever the internet has decided we all apparently need this week.
Here’s what I think should actually be trending…
Flexibility
Arlo absolutely LOVES the beach!
I’m really lucky that my day job gives me a degree of flexibility when I need it, whether that’s taking Arlo out, getting some fresh air or simply stepping away from my desk for a bit.
Then there’s Support The Makers, which I run around my day job, on my dedicated admin days, evenings and market weekends.
My life definitely doesn’t fit neatly into a traditional 9–5, but having that flexibility and finding a way to make both work is something I really appreciate.
Actually appreciating handmade gifts
I’ve been incredibly lucky to be gifted some absolutely gorgeous things from our makers over the years, and I genuinely appreciate every single one.
Someone has taken their time, skill and creativity to make something, and then chosen to give it to you. That feels pretty special to me.
Filling your home with things you genuinely love
So. Many. Plants
My house is full of handmade pieces, plants and a slightly out-of-control ceramic mug collection.
All 40+ of my plants have come from my bestie Seb’s Urban Jungle, and I love that so many things around our home have a story, a maker or a memory attached to them.
Boundaries around admin
This one has been a big learning curve for me, but something that has improved massively this year.
Monday is my Support The Makers admin day and having Lauren come on board has made such a difference. She’s helped put proper processes in place and has taken on the management of our workshops and website, which has taken a huge amount off my plate.
I’m still learning not to automatically pick things up on evenings and weekends, but having clearer processes, responsibilities and boundaries has made running Support The Makers alongside a day job feel so much more manageable.
Turns out you don’t actually have to do everything yourself. Who knew?!
More practical support for makers
My trusty notebook comes everywhere!
This is a big one for me and one of the reasons we’ve been developing our Makers Business Workshops.
Bringing in people who actually know their stuff to share their experience, advice and practical knowledge about running a small business.
Not just the fluffy stuff. Actual useful things you can take away, implement and hopefully use to build your business.
Check our our Makers Business Workshops page for what’s coming up!
Buying less, but buying better
I’ve always had a slightly unwavering obsession with handmade.
I only wear handmade jewellery and knitwear. I use handmade skincare. I generally gift handmade. And yes, I regularly buy from the makers at our markets.
People often ask me what made me start Support The Makers, what my favourite products are and whether I actually spend much money at our markets.
The answer is… yes.
I’m always stacking silver!
Because I genuinely love handmade.
I love knowing who made something. I love hearing the story behind it. I love finding something completely unique. And I love knowing that the money I’m spending is going directly towards someone’s creativity, time and small business.
I’m not standing on the sidelines telling everyone else to shop small and support handmade.
I’m right there with you, probably buying another ceramic mug or piece of silver jewellery that I absolutely do not need.
And that’s one trend I’m very happy to keep going.
More handmade. More local. More thoughtful purchases. More things we genuinely love. 🧡
See you at the next market!
Carmen x