'Craft Store of the Year' - 2023/24 - Somerset

Well, I have finally got round to writing a bit more – if all the experts are anything to go by I would need to be writing a blog every day!! I mean, who’s got time for that?!!

I don’t have time to blog every day so a little is good rather than not at all I say.

Anyway, recently my store won an award!! I am so chuffed that my little outfit has been recognised. South Wales Prestige awards contacted me to say I had won and sent me this lovely piece on what their judges thought:

‘Offering a fantastic selection of locally produced handmade products, Quantock Inspiration is an arts and crafts store specialising in gifts you can be proud to display in your home. The brainchild of owner and entrepreneur, Esther Parr, the must-visit store provides a winning combination of creativity and craftsmanship with Esther pouring her heart and soul into every creation, drawing inspiration from the idyllic surroundings of the Quantock Hills. Rooted in nature and fuelled by artistic flair, Quantock Inspiration offers an eclectic range of products. From charming decoupage items to exquisite jewellery pieces, Esther’s creations resonate with a timeless charm.

The judges were particularly impressed by the environmentally sound work ethics and practices that steer every decision at Quantock Inspiration. Her commitment to sustainability echoes Esther’s ethos of responsible craftsmanship; incorporating recycled materials wherever possible, she not only creates beautiful items but also champions eco-conscious approaches. This dedication to environmental stewardship adds an extra layer of depth to the brand’s appeal, resonating with conscientious consumers. From exquisite bottle crafts to a myriad of handcrafted accessories and home decor items, Quantock Inspiration offers something for everyone.

 QUANTOCK INSPIRATION OFFERS UNIQUE, HANDMADE CRAFTS AND GIFTS, BLENDING NATURE[1]INSPIRED DESIGNS WITH SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AND EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY’

So wow! It took a little while to sink in but now I am just very proud of what I have achieved. Five years of learning, trial and error, ideas, mistakes and back to the drawing board on occasions but it all came together. I’m still learning of course – SEO is a minefield!! Marketing a permanent challenge and trying to keep up with the trend on how to keep moving forward with an online store.

I am hoping this year to have a new workspace. At the moment I am still working in my living room. I started in the corner and have gradually spread slowly across until I take up about two thirds of it now – there’s still a space for the sofa and TV but that’s about it – I am fortunate to have a very big lounge, but I have outgrown it now. I don’t want to work away from home as that wouldn’t work for me as this is very much a lifestyle business.  

I have been looking into a log cabin style building for my garden or something similar that I can have as my own – and give the lounge back to my Husband!!

I think that will really help me move forward – plus I will have an even better view of those Quantock Hills! And that means more inspiration of course which is the whole concept of my store.

So, I’ve kept this one short and sweet, until next time – cheerio!!