Meet a Mama: Mama Victoria

Every two weeks we feature the an interview from one of our inspirational Mamas. Today is the turn of Mama Victoria of Strictly Bunting. You can take a look at her shop here. If you like bunting, trust us, this is one for you! Tell us a little bit about you and your family.

I live with my partner Andrew and our three children, William is 10 years old, Evie is eight and our latest addition Arthur who is almost one. We live in the picturesque village of Market Bosworth in Warwickshire with rabbits, chickens and fish for company.

Tell us a little bit about your favourite products. Is there anything particularly special to you?

Well as you may have gathered I quite like bunting. I’ve always felt like bunting is as underrated decoration that can be used to brighten up any room or occasion. It’s also an incredibly versatile medium in terms of the different techniques and finishes you can use, offering limitless possibilities. I particularly love the appliques I have worked on and have had a very positive reaction too.

What inspired you to get creative?

I have always enjoyed all things creative and have tried my hand at lots of different crafting activities but my favourite was always fabric. I love nothing better than visiting a beautiful fabric shop filled with gorgeous prints and patterns and the decision of what a piece of fabric could become. My Grandma’s both embroidered, knitted and sewed so when I was younger they would teach me skills to finish a product, I loved the sense of satisfaction of completing a piece of work, not only for myself but also for the person receiving it. There are still many things that I have not tried and would love to have a go at in the future, such as willow weaving or furniture making.

Do you have any tips for managing the work / family life balance?

I am not sure that I have cracked this one yet! It’s a work in progress, but I think organisation is key to juggling the demands of being a mother and working from home. Quality time at the weekends with the family and the occasional me time to either relax or catch up on things. I also find coffee, chocolate and the odd slice of cake helps this process along!

How did you first start to sell your products?

I started to make things for friends and family and this led to word of mouth commissions for weddings, birthdays and various events, which resulted in the Strictly Bunting brand being born. The name was based on another love of mine, involving a glitter ball and dancing shoes!

What are your dreams for the future?

In the short term I would love to get the Strictly Bunting brand to a wider audience. In the long term I would love to live by the sea, own a beach hut and run a beautiful fabric shop, running workshops learning to sew while drinking coffee and eating cake! I think a theme is developing…

Do you have any tips for anyone just starting out and learning a craft?

Find a craft you really love and enjoy working with, this will help you if you decide to take things further and things become more demanding. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, you never know where this may lead, and be brave – you can do it!

Thank you for sharing with us Mama Victoria!

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