Designer, Maker, Dreamer.
The Box & The Maker
As a child, I was the type of person who found the cardboard box far more interesting than the toy inside. I suspect this is a common trait among makers; we can’t help but play with the world around us, testing its limits and reimagining its possibilities. To some, it’s just a box, but if you know, you know.
My journey into business strangely enough, also started with boxes. During a Young Enterprise scheme at school, I spent a year learning the ropes of entrepreneurship. It was only years later, while reflecting on my path, that I realized our product back then was wooden boxes. Whether by accident or design, I seem to have a lifelong affinity for them.
From Design to the High Street
Driven by a fascination with the physical interaction between structure, material, and graphics, I chose to study Packaging and Graphic Design. During my degree, I was honored to win seven awards at the national Student Starpack Awards, eventually graduating with a First Class BA (Hons) in Graphic Design.
That success led me to an incredible packaging firm in Leeds, where I moved from theory to the technical realities of the industry. There is a unique thrill in seeing your work on the shelves of a major retailer like Marks & Spencer, and it confirmed my passion for creating products that are both beautiful and functional.
The Teaching Years &
The Everest Spark
Life took a scenic turn after a trek to Everest Basecamp (a “humble brag” I share because that trip actually planted the seeds for my own business). However, before I could fully nurture those ideas, I was called back to education. Having placed in the top three nationally for my Art A-levels, my former college invited me to join their faculty.
I spent the next 16 years as a Course Leader for A-Level Graphic and A-Level Product Design. I am immensely proud of that time; helping students launch their careers and make life-changing choices was a privilege. While leaving that community was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, it was the necessary catalyst to finally return to my own creative dreams.
Back to the Making
After nearly two decades of helping others achieve their goals, I decided it was time to build something of my own. I launched my current range of products in 2023 at the Cirencester Makers Market, and the response from the local community has been wonderful.
Today, I use my specialist knowledge of structure and design to create the products you see here. It’s a return to my roots: playing with possibilities and making things that people love to hold and keep.
This is the first marquetry box I ever made. It was a birthday present for a dear friend and colleague. Both it and she will always hold a special place in my heart.
Let’s Connect
That’s my story so far, but the best parts are still being designed.
Follow my journey on Instagram
I love a challenge. If you have an idea for a bespoke piece, I’d love to hear from you.
Thank you for reading