If you came to Art in the Park in Leamington Spa this weekend – thank you. I’m still catching my breath (and catching up on commission quotes), but I didn’t want too many days to pass before I said a proper hello.
This was my fourth year taking part, and somehow it ended up being my best one yet.
A Little Nerve, a Lot of Gratitude
In the run-up to the weekend, I was honestly quite nervous. Events like this are a big investment of time, energy, and stock — especially when school holidays are in full swing and everything behind the scenes is a bit of a juggling act.
But what a weekend it turned out to be. The sun showed up (despite me worrying about rain for weeks in advance), the parks came alive with music and colour, and the market was absolutely buzzing.
I had some of the loveliest conversations, met new customers and returning ones, and got to see so many of my designs go off to new homes — or be worn right then and there!
A huge thanks to the amazing organisers and volunteers, to my ever-patient husband, and to our kids’ grandparents for stepping up so I could focus fully on the stall (and not have a small person accidentally rearrange my earring display every 5 minutes).
Small Moments That Meant a Lot
Over the weekend I scribbled a little list in my notebook — a few of the moments that made me smile:
- Chatting with returning customers who already own and love pieces from previous years
- Spotting people wearing my jewellery as they walked up to the stall (a surreal and wonderful feeling)
- Hearing the stories behind gifts that were dropped hints about for months
- Watching mums try to browse my entire collection in the 7-second window before their toddler made a run for it
- Meeting fellow creatives and small business owners who always seem to understand the chaos behind the calm
Markets are hard work, but they are also incredibly rewarding. I come away exhausted, yes — but also reminded why I do what I do.
A Warm Welcome to New Faces
If you’re new here because we met this weekend – welcome! I’m an independent jeweller based in Solihull, and I’ve been making jewellery since 2009. Every piece is handmade by me in my small home workshop, and many are one-of-a-kind or made from offcuts and reimagined scraps (a method that’s grown into one of my favourite parts of the process).
Whether you're looking for a unique gift, a meaningful keepsake, or something special just for you – I’d love for you to have a browse.
What’s Next?
The website is back up to date after the market and I’ll be adding a few one-off pieces that didn’t sell soon (they tend to go quickly, so keep your eyes peeled or sign up to the mailing list to hear first).
And speaking of the mailing list – I ran a £50 voucher giveaway for new subscribers over the weekend, and the winner has now been notified 🎉
Thank you again to everyone who came by, said hi, or supported in any way. These events always remind me that small business is a team sport – and I feel very lucky to have such a good one behind me.
See you at the next one!
– Laura
Local independent jeweller, Solihull
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