ABOUT ME
I have written a little bit about me for those of you who are keen to know how I started out.
Where and when was your business founded?
I started making my beach hut lavender bags and cushions in 2007 and went on to create my business in Jersey, Channel Islands, in March 2010. My passion for sewing began when my first daughter was born. I wanted pretty cot bedding but couldn’t afford it, so I made my own. The results inspired me to make all sorts of items for the home and soon friends were asking me to make pieces for them too. It wasn’t long before I began making lavender bags and cushions with a seaside theme to sell at our local craft market. It became a huge success. I took a massive leap of faith, left my banking career, and set up my own business.
What is the story of your business so far?
My first three years were in the amazing Harbour Gallery in Jersey. In 2013 I decided to move to mainland UK. I bought a houseboat in Hoo, Kent and opened up a little shop within the marina. Another three years went by and I decided it was time to move again, this time to Lymington in the New Forest. I had a little shop just off the high street, where much of my sewing was done and customers could visit. This is such a beautiful and inspiring part of the UK, with the forest one side and sea the other, a great place to inspire one’s creativity.
I no longer have my little shop but you can find some of my products in St Barbe Museum Lymington and can purchase on-line at Buy Britain in addition to my own website here. I also have a presence on Facebook and Instagram
What is your business most known for?
I never set out to be different, it just happened. My seaside designs have won me awards over the years. I love working with natural woven, cotton fabrics, in bright, primary colours and using appliqué to really make each item ‘pop’. Each piece I create is completely individual.
What are your best sellers?
Oh, I get asked this all the time. I have no real best seller, all of my products are as popular as each other. If I had to choose I guess it would be either the aprons or cushions…..they just sail away.
Lesley De Gruchy
