Zoe Grant, me and Katie Levett
On Monday I did something I’ve been meaning to do for *years*. I headed up to Top Drawer for a spot of inspiration, research and to catch up with some old and new friends. To be honest I didn’t really know what to expect, but having enviously listened to various people talking about the sheer range of companies there I decided to bite the bullet and go.
I spent most of the day reminding myself that I was resolutely NOT opening a shop and that I must not get carried away but the lovely goods on offer. But it was hard! There were some really inspirational, creative companies there and I know that if I ever find that eighth day in my week I am so going to open a lovely online gift shop… But I digress.
It was lovely to see some of our clients doing so well, including the fabulous What Katie Did Next who looked just on fire after an incredibly successful first day! It was also lovely to meet Gabrielle Treanor of the Green Gables in the flesh and meet people I’d spoken to on twitter like the lovely Snapdragon Jane, Dots and Spots and Cutture. All of whom had fabulous stands and were so nice!
I was also really excited to finally meet the lovely Zoe Grant, who I’ve been chatting to on twitter for years, but never actually met. Zoe is a freelance writer as well as a mum to five (!!!) so it was great to finally put a name to a face.
I’m a firm believer that inspiration is everywhere, and it certainly wasn’t in short supply at Top Drawer. The colours were beautiful, everything was exquisitely designed and I came away with a head full of ideas.
And most excitingly… I met a publishing company who liked the sound of my new book and invited me to contact the editor directly! How exciting is that?!
ps. As requested, the image of the beauty lab selection was designed by and for Trend Bible. You can find out more about them here.
Oh no I hate having my photo taken!! It was so great to finally meet you too Fiona
) Top Drawer was a fantastic show, full of colour and inspiration and I came away feeling proud that we have so many talented designers here in the UK.
If only for that 8th day in the week as I would also love to open an online shop filled with party and giftware! One day maybe!
Have a fab weekend!
Zoe
x
Thank you for your comment Zoe. You’re right, we have some amazing talent in the UK and we should be proud to celebrate that.
I’m well jel! (as my kids would say!) I’d love to have gone to Top Drawer… maybe next year! x
It was fab. And you should definitely think about exhibiting next year, your work is beautiful.
Ah, I spot the Maileg catalogue in amid those photos, I think I may have bankrupted myself on their stand! x
I probably would have done as well had I been allowed to buy anything!