I’m sure that I am not alone in saying that the last year has had its challenges. There have been times when I have questioned whether or not to continue with things, but then my mind focuses on my core values and my brand mission …
‘Empowering women in rural communities by nurturing artisanal values and skills through a shared passion, to create beautiful products.’
I am driven and motivated by the wonderful women that I get to work with. My trip to India in March last year, was my best yet; not only in terms of product development but more importantly in terms of the relationships built and the community that I got to witness. It was undoubtedly the highlight of my year, it brings me such joy to be in their presence and to see first-hand the benefits that their employment has. I am returning In April and am delighted to be taking my 17 year old Son with me so that he too, can witness the impact of the work and meet these inspiring ladies.
Whilst In India, I also had the opportunity to visit the Community Seva Centre, which is one of the charities I choose to support. It was a very humbling experience to visit one of their schools and see the marvellous work being done to educate marginalised children. Throughout the course of the year, I have been able to donate over £6000 to them and additional funds to Harmony House in Delhi. Something I am so grateful for.
Whilst in India, we collaborated on developing new products which have been very well received, particularly the Sudha blanket and hat. Crafted from the softest Eri silk, it’s easy to understand why parents seem to love them. They are named after Sudha, the lady who designed it, and the lady who I consider my friend. I also introduced the Bobby Romper, which was a slight departure from previous products being made from organic cotton fabric, but the sweet crochet detailing gave it the nod to Gooseberry Fool. It has been a popular purchase for Christenings which is so lovely. I also introduced the Charlie Blanket which has been nice to try in slightly different colours, I loved the Paprika and Grey colours for the Winter months. The cable design is hand knit, and I had the chance to sit with Kamatchi whilst she was lovingly creating one of these, it was mesmerising! I’m excited to share a new bonnet design in the coming weeks and I have some other new pieces being sampled at the moment, so watch this space!
Other highlights this year include:
Winning Gold in the Organic Baby Awards for best baby gift with the Martha Blanket, and an Ethical Fashion Award.
Becoming part of the fabulous ‘Buy Women Built’ community
Achieving the People and Planet First verification.
Great success in the US thanks to participation in the choose app.
Becoming a top shop brand on Faire’s marketplace.
A beautiful photo shoot with a 5-day old baby and my wonderful photographer Claire Brookes.
Elsie, Nelly and the striped knits have continually sold out which has delighted me. I am pleased that you seem to love them, as do your customers. I am looking to make some changes to the cardigan design so any feedback would be welcome, along with any other feedback or products you would love to see!
I had the pleasure of visiting the Greater Manchester Baby Bank Alliance towards the end of the year. I am a founding member of the ‘Clothes Together’ initiative along with Pigeon Organics, Frugi and Little Green Radicals. We are working together with baby banks nationally to provide them with a client led service offering surplus stock to support the needs of their community. It was a real privilege to be able to witness the amazing work that they do, and I hope to continue to build relationships with them this year.
So, there we have it, a brief run-down of the year here at Gooseberry Fool, as always, thank you, I don’t take your support for granted, and I am so appreciative of your orders. If you have any questions, suggestions, or comments, please do reply to this mail, I always love to hear feedback.
Thank you again and my very best wishes to you for the year ahead,
Rachel x