In 2005, I began an apprenticeship with artist and jewellery maker Alan Ardiff. Alan creates kinetic pieces of wearable art. During my training, I not only learned technical craft skills, but I also received a great insight into how a craft related business is run.

Jewellery is so personal, it means so much when a customer chooses you to be part of their celebration. You’re building meaningful and lasting relationships with people. Sometimes you get to know the whole family, which I think is just lovely!

That my hands will be dirty! Because I work with diamonds and pearls and the end result is a beautiful piece of jewellery, people don’t realise the labour that goes into each design. It’s actually not a very glamorous job, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

More than ever, people are looking for personal pieces. They know where it comes from and who made it. My customers appreciate the time that goes into a piece and are not interested in fast fashion. They are investing in timeless jewellery that will last forever.