Creative Kettering

I’m very lucky to share my hometown with two special Kettering-based artists, Wall Envy Art run by Louise and Coulson Macleod run by Hannah and her partner Mark. I’ve known Louise since last year when we found each other on Etsy and attended a few fairs together. We’ve since started a little joint project and it’s great to have a like-minded person to bounce ideas and plans off. Twitter introduced us to Hannah of Coulson Macleod who is also based in Kettering and has found success selling super cool artwork to the likes of billionaires and CEOs. Coulson Macleod are celebrating their first birthday today, 4th of March 2010, and have already acheived so much in just a year – Hannah definitely inspires me with her focus and passion!

Last night, the three of us met up for a good long chat, about everything from our products, online venues for selling and twitter, to pricing and press. It was a lovely evening and made me feel very glad I live so near to such talented people. I think people would be surprised to know that Kettering is home to the three of us – working away on our creative projects. I’ve defintely come away with a lot of motivation after meeting with like-minded people.

As well as our ‘Creative Kettering’ meeting yesterday, I also had my latest meeting with my Prince’s Trust business mentor, which also fueled my motivation. For anyone aged 18-30 and thinking of starting a business, or developing your handmade creations into a business, I’d definitely recommend signing up for the Prince’s Trust’s Business Programme. Ruby Wren joined Etsy in April 2009 but it wasn’t until August 31st when everything changed and Ruby Wren went from a hobby to an actual business, and in such a short time I’m overwhelmed with how far it’s come. It just goes to show how quickly things can change and, to quote someone who has always inspired me, “expect the unexpected”. I’m definitely very happy to be doing what I love and know such creative and inspirational people!