Recent Visit to British Craft Trade Fair

A week after visiting the British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) saw the beginning of this year's Britain’s Got Talent. All be it talent of a different kind or otherwise. 

Britain certainly has got talent of the handcrafted/handmade variety as Nicola and I were so fortunate to discover on our first visit to the BCTF in the beautiful town of Harrogate. 

The work involved for each designer maker in preparing for the fair and showcasing their products over the course of 3 days must have been exhausting.  Sadly it is impossible for buyers to stop and chat to everyone - each buyer will go with a plan in mind of what they are looking for and what their customers will like - but it must have been disheartening for the artists when buyers were passing them by and not engaging with them in any way.  It is certainly not a reflection on their creations. That said they all remained positive and confident in their own brand and smiled regardless.    

We were and still are absolutely blown away at the creativity that flowed from every exhibitor we visited.  The variety and artistic designs on offer were breathtaking and the extraordinary products and handcrafted gifts were matched by the lovely people who were behind the designs and creation of each item. 

 

 

The greatest difficulty we had was in selecting, from the huge range on offer, the handmade gifts and accessories that we felt would fit in best in our online gift shop and craft gallery.  We always experience a tinge of regret when we bypass other very talented individuals. 

We would love to have selected more for our customers on the day but we have taken notes and will be contacting many of the designers in the near future!

The choice on offer included beautifully made unique jewellery with a wonderful story behind the designs to products from exciting new designers displaying their creations for the first time in Harrogate - some not long out of university or art school.  Some of favourites on the day included gorgeous textiles and framed artwork made from recycled materials. 

 

 

 

At Noah Home And Gifts we are committed to supporting British Designer Makers.  We really appreciate the wealth of talent that we have in our own country.  Creativity such as this deserves encouragement and a platform to showcase their creations. 

 

 

Britain certainly has got talent and we must promote it at every opportunity! To buy handmade or handcrafted gifts you are buying in to a unique brand and gift choice that promotes British Designers and helps our economy.

 

We look forward to sharing some of our new products from these talented individuals soon.

 

Florence

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Designer Maker Showcase - Andycrafts

 

In the first of our designer maker showcases, we are proud to introduce Andycrafts - a small independent business based in Warwickshire, in the heart of the Midlands.

Founded around 4 years ago by Andy Driscoll, Andycrafts offer a unique range of handcrafted gifts and home accessories including wall clocks, chalk boards, mirrors and wall art – all beautifully handmade by Andy himself, ensuring that quality is never compromised.

 

Starting out like many designer makers, Andy embarked on selling his handcrafted gifts at various craft fairs and shows.  4 years on and he has forged partnerships with a range of carefully selected retail outlets through which his handcrafted items are available for sale.  Many of his products have appeared in national press and glossy magazines and he proactively shares his experience with his peers, happy to pass on any hints and tips he has picked up along the way.

 

Andycrafts’ philosophy is to design and create handcrafted items that are individual and affordable, preferring to use natural materials such as driftwood and earthy natural tones to create classic, stylish pieces that will add character to your home. 

 

Many of Andycrafts’ home accessories are functional items that every home needs, such as clocks or mirrors, however they have successfully turned these everyday items into stunning, decorative focal points that are truly unique and of the highest quality. 

 

We love Andy’s designs and the fact that due to the natural tones and textures, they can be easily incorporated into almost any interior design theme, appealing to a wide range of tastes and as timeless classics they are a worthy investment.  We are delighted to be working with Andycrafts and are sure that their clocks, mirrors and wall hangings will soon be gracing the walls of many of our discerning customers!

 

 

What Andy likes right now and why - these are 5 of Andycrafts favourite products from the Noah Home & Gift range (kindly provided by Andy Driscoll)…….

 

 

Handcrafted Recycled Aluminium Silk Thistle Bookmark.

 

Made by All Fired Up, based in Edinburgh, this recycled aluminium bookmark has a back story all of its own. There is something that appeals to me about old materials being recycled and given a new lease of life, and combined with the task of helping you with your journey through your favourite books, it is a lovely item to have.

 

 

 

 

Fused Glass Jewellery

 

Fused glass is a fascinating technique and is normally quite expensive, but the fused glass jewellery hand crafted by Alicia MacInnes in Glasgow allows you the opportunity to buy some unique pieces of art at very affordable prices.

 

 

 

Personalised Scrabble Tile Cuff Links

 

Scrabble tiles are something most of us identify with, and to have a set of cuff links that can be personalised to show your initials and your age is a nice touch (I could always be creative about my age!) It is also a nice reminder of those family board games where you desperately make up words in the vein attempt to get rid of an X or a Z!

 

 

 

Handcrafted Cards

 

Embroidered Originals produce some nice handmade cards which can help you give that personal touch, and (hopefully) will never be replaced by computer generated website designs. If you want a ‘proper’ card made with skilled hands and attention to detail, then these are for you. I like the ‘Fish and Chips’ card especially!

 

 

 

 

Fair Trade Recycled Aluminium Purple Bowl

 

In my view creatively recycling materials should be encouraged, people using their hands to make lovely objects should be encouraged, and supporting people in being able to make something from nothing is a skill that should also be encouraged. Therefore this product made in India ticks all the boxes for me. In a world where the brutal forces of economics seems to be king, allowing fair trade to flourish and supporting talented individuals seems a worthwhile and satisfying aim.

 

 

 

Browse Andycrafts full collection ......

 

 

Shop the interior design trend - Spring 2013 - Pastels

A key interior design trend for Spring 2013, pastels are featuring heavily both in high street clothing stores and in the homes of the style conscious.  Emerald Green may be Pantone’s colour of the year but pastels are giving it a run for its money!

We have picked out some of our favourite interior accessories from noahhomeandgifts.com as well as scouring the high street for some great fashion buys.

Fabric bunting remains popular and this pink floral bunting is perfect for Spring.  We think it would look great in a bedroom to add a feminine touch.  Use it to decorate a wall, hang over the window or to decorate a bookshelf.  (Also available in green floral and red floral).

 

This Fair Isle patterned cushion in pale blue fits the bill for both the pastels trend as well as the continuing trend for bold graphic patterns.  Designed and made in Britain from quality fabric.

 

 

Personalised wall hangings make a special gift and can add a unique touch to a pastel colour scheme.  The wording on this wall hanging can be adapted to your choice and you can even choose shades to tie in with your preferred colour scheme!

 

Although not a pastel shade as such, this handcrafted white wooden framed mirror  will compliment and break up your choice of pastel scheme.  We love its distressed appearance.

 

We adore this cute handmade cushion in floral tilly and dotty fabric – available in several shades, great for accessorising and allowing you to include another key trend this season (florals).

 

Last but not least is this heart shaped timber wall clock – again neutral in colour but the distressed white painted finish will add  the perfect finishing touch……

 

 

For pastel clothing and accessories perfect for warmer sunnier days check out the following:

Pink shell top from Karen Millen £99

 

 

Pastel court shoes from Kurt Geiger £79

 

Mandarin metallic stripe jumper from Mango £34.99

 

 Blue ‘damsel in a dress’ jacket from John Lewis, reduced to £122

 

Yellow pastel panel clip top purse from River Island £17

 



Cork wedges from Laura Ashley, £80

 

 

 

Hopefully we have shown something for everyone!  Now all we need is for the sun to shine ....

Nicola
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Any Excuse For A Girl's Night In .......

 

They say that staying in is the new going out.  What with the recession, we are all watching our pennies and a good night out can be costly – there’s the taxi fair, drinks bill and of course food.

So what better excuse do you need to gather your friends for a fun filled girls night in?  No matter what age you are, nothing beats a girly get together.  Strong friendships are good for your health and well being so make sure your partner organises something with the kids if you have any, send him out if you don’t or do whatever you need to do to make sure you have the house to yourself for a few hours.

But what to do?

We have pulled together a few ideas to get your girls night in off to a swinging start …….

Spa night – Everyone loves to be pampered so why not invite along a mobile beauty therapist for an hour or two to treat you and friends to a mini treatment each - perhaps a speedy manicure, mini facial or neck massage?  You could split the cost or if you're on a tight budget you could give each other some treatments.

Must haves – aromatherapy candles to create a relaxing ambiance, lots of soft cushions to help you get comfy, some relaxing music, dim lights and perhaps a glass of wine and chocolates.

 

 

 

Movie Night – Dust off those old faithful chick flicks, serve some popcorn and drinks, put your feet up and voila – a home cinema!  Some of our favourites are Dirty Dancing, Grease,  Thelma & Louise, Beaches, Mama Mia, Pretty Woman, Bridget Jones Diary, Pride & Prejudice – predictable we know but we still love them!!

Must haves – serving dishes for all those nibbles (we love this Fair Trade recycled aluminium bowl) or line these stylish heart shaped baskets with napkins and they are perfect for crisps and popcorn and plenty of comfortable seating.
 

 

 

 

 

Dinner party – 'Come Dine With Me' style – You could all take a turn of playing hostess and have a come dine style competition, scoring each other on hosting and culinary skills.

Must haves – a trendy chalk board to display your menu restaurant style;  a serving bowl for salads or bread; a quirky apron to make sure you look the part; a clock to keep eye on your timings for dinner.

 

 

 

Afternoon tea with cocktails or a cheese and wine evening – Why not have the girls around for afternoon tea with cocktails or prosecco (or perhaps a wine tasting night)?  You can have fun mixing up your own concoctions or cheat and choose from the widely available range of ready mixed cocktails.  Put your baking skills to the test with some fancy cupcakes, scones and tray bakes.

Must haves – a pretty cake stand to do justice to your creations,  wine charms to add a nice touch and ensure your guests keep track of their drinks, a stunning cheese platter to decorate your dining table, cocktail glasses and champagne flutes.

 

 

 

A girly night in with karaoke and dancing – if all else fails you could just invite your friends for drinks and see how it ends up. 

Must haves – karaoke, chirpy tunes on your ipod, dancing shoes and plenty of energy!! 

Last but not least – Enjoy!!! 

Nicola

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Mother's Day

Mother’s Day gives us a chance to thank our mums, grans, step mums (and so on) for all they do for us in life and perhaps to remember lost loved ones with fondness.   

Mums are often elevated to sainthood but like all human beings, mothers aren’t perfect!  (As a mum and a gran I’m allowed to say this)!  Sometimes children unfairly assume that mum has them at the centre of everything they do (and they’re usually right)!  

Other assumptions and beliefs about mums are that they don’t have a love life (toddlers try to see to this), nor should they (adolescents believe this) and adult children shudder at the thought of mum even having a cuddle with dad or if dad is no longer around, dare I say it another man.  Sometimes mothers are not considered to be individuals with an independent life. 

I have nominated myself to defend the mums seeking their individual identity while trying so hard to be carer, nurse, cook, cleaner, full-time/part-time worker, listener, friend, book-keeper, idea’s person, .........etc. etc. Etc. Go for it mums -discover freedom! (By this I don’t mean running off like Shirley Valentine!!)

Despite the above I do love being a mum and gran, but I also enjoy time to myself and think this is important.  It can be difficult to find middle ground - being a supportive parent while at the same time making sure I have time to develop and grow as an individual. 

Mums need to receive as well as give. We all have different needs - what I need from my family may be different to what you need from yours.  Things important to me are: 

Time, care, understanding, tolerance, acceptance, consideration, respect and most importantly, love. 

I am lucky and receive some of the above often.  On occasion I have received so much more and am very appreciative. However, some women think they should never expect anything from their family. It’s right that we shouldn’t ‘expect’ things from others but through sharing our feelings and having self esteem as a woman as well as a mum our family will understand the needs we have. 

So what about ‘Mother’s Day’?  - Money making idea or opportunity to cater to mum’s needs with a special gift or spending time with her? 

It’s difficult to spend time with your mum on Mother’s Day as you also have to consider mother-in-law, grans – as well as yourself!   How can you manage it in practice? One possible solution could be going out together for a family meal and sharing the cost. 

A thoughtful, but not necessarily expensive, gift is always appreciated. It doesn’t have to be a last minute thought collected at the garage with petrol. 

Does she like writing or travelling? -  Perhaps she would appreciate a nice journal.  Avid readers may welcome a new bookmark while a nice photo frame will allow her to display family photos. 

You should also consider what she won’t welcome – don’t buy chocolates for someone trying to lose weight or flowers for someone allergic to them! Sounds obvious but sometimes we leave it so late it’s hard to find an alternative!  We’ve all done it! 

 

So how can you best show love and consideration to your mum on mother’s day and every day? 

A mother is a mother every day of the year, not perfect but doing the best she can. How can you do the best you can? 

Florence

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Ideas for Valentine's Day

“My love is like a red, red, rose that’s newly sprung in June

my love is like the melody that’s sweetly played in tune.” 

Robert Burns created one of the finest Valentine poems - or should I say love poems - in the days before Valentine’s Day cards were churned out. He was the top romantic when putting words together for the ladies. 

Do you remember any valentine poems from your younger days?  Unfortunately I can recall some that are totally unrepeatable. However, I can bring to mind others that are okay to put in print.  

“When we get married we’ll have twins,
you buy the nappies and I’ll buy the pins”. 
______

“Postman, postman do not tarry
take this to the one I’ll marry.” 
______

“I love you, I love you, I love you almighty, 

I wish your pyjama’s were close to my nighty,

but don’t be mistaken, don’t be misled

 I mean on the clothesline and not in the bed”. 

Okay - that last one may have been a little risky!  

You can probably tell by the words used in my poetic, romantic little ditties that I am in the over 50 age bracket.  No apologies for that. It really is a great age to be – honest! I’m loving it (when I’m not having an afternoon nap)! 

.......  Back to thoughts of past and present romantic gestures on Valentine’s Day. 

Can you recall receiving your first valentine card or the first one you ever sent?  Perhaps you have fond memories of the most romantic gift you have received from an admirer? To be honest, I can't remember but I did get some over the years and sent many.  (Before I met my husband of course)!

Everyone has their own opinion regarding Valentine’s Day.  Some prefer to ignore it, some make do with sending a card’, some of us make some romantic gesture, and some like to give a gift.  

I always try to encourage my husband towards romantic gestures, Sadly, I am still trying!  However, to be perfectly honest I have to improve in that area myself and not just on Valentine’s Day but every day.   

Light hearted joking aside, love should be expressed in a variety of ways when people are in a relationship - consideration, listening, forgiveness, tolerance, making time for each other, listening again, (can’t stress that enough), affection and of course showing some romantic gestures on special occasions. 

We are all different.  Some of us need spontaneous gifts to feel loved while some of us need regular affection.  It's important to understand what makes our partner tick.  Perhaps a treat at a favourite restaurant; a trip to the theatre; a thoughtful card; a special gift, a favourite homemade meal or even just a cuddle! 

A friend and I were recently discussing gifts from our partners and both agreed that it is not how much they spend that matters but the thought that goes into choosing a gift that makes us feel loved and appreciated as it shows they know what we like and have paid us attention.  

So what are you going to plan for Valentine’s Day this year?  Let’s surprise our partner and make an effort as never before! 

For those of you who like to choose a gift for your partner, here is a selection of my favourite gift ideas for Valentine's Day from our online gift shop: 

For Her ......

 

Handcrafted Decorative SilentWall Clock - Wooden Heart - £41.00

 

 

Handmade Soy Wax Candle- Aromatherapy Oils. £10.00

Personalised Bone China Mug -£12.99

 

 

Handmade dichroic fused glass sparkly heart pendant. £28.00 (Gift Box included)

 

 

Gifts For Him.....

 

 Engraved, steel and leather hipflask £29.99

 

 

Personalised novelty cufflinks £19.99

 

 

 

Handmade shaving kit.£19.99

 

 

Personalised pen gift £14.99

 

 

Just a few ideas we hope you will like or you can browse our full collection of ideas for Valentine's Day.

Until next time.
 

Florence

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