20/12/2025
So a quick AMA (ask me anything)?
What has been my greatest challenge this year?
Truthfully, not knowing I'm good enough to make this work. It's different in my other beading job as I'm using someone else's money.
Being out there and putting myself on the line, not knowing if it will work, or thinking I'll be laughed out of fairs has been hard.
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What's been the highlight of this year?
Not being laughed at! But seeing my name, designs, business cards, key rings, stickers, runners... it's been incredible...
The best part of it has been the support.
Going from a simple blackboard behind a bar 6 years ago, to friends stopping me and asking for bespoke pieces... it's been mind blowing.
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What would you have changed?
Confidence... when HReeve Handmade started, I didn't think anyone would take a second look at me. But, when I look at other sellers and know I'm making something that they don't, it's definitely something.
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What do you hope for 2026?
If peace on earth isn't an option, I hope that I get in a position where I can have select suppliers, reliable parts, and a chance to build up to a real craft fair.
People just see a stall, but noone see's how much goes on in the background.
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And, Matt asking, when did it feel real?
You've come a long way from a board behind the bar. But when was it you knew that you were doing this, instead of me kicking your butt?
You can shut up! You know when...
This started to feel real when I got my own business cards... but it still didn't make sense.
You designed the logo and I said that I didn't need anything other than what I had.
Putting my stickers on the back of product bags and looking at them, thinking "holy s**t" this is a professional product is a feeling that I still have every time I package something up.
The more I see my name, the less real it becomes, until I see it all.
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What advice would you give to someone wanting to start something like this?
First off, don't... Honestly though, think brave and think bigger.
Yes, I had a backboard on a pub bar, but looking back, I should have been braver. But was I ready? No.
It's taken me years to believe in myself, and I still don't. But taking a chance on me?... Well, I'll never know, but, this is it now.
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MB: If any followers have a question, add them to the comments and Heather will try to answer them.
On behalf of HReeve Handmade, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Hopeful New Year.
