14/10/2026
Would you like to know how it all started? I needed to build a business around my life. My daughter Willow had been very ill, and I needed a shop I could close if she needed me.
I didn’t have a huge budget. But I loved beautiful jewellery, and I wanted to fill my shop with quality pieces.
So one Halloween Friday, I took Willow on the train to London.
She was about four. Dressed as a witch.
And together, we went knocking on doors in Hatton Garden.
We walked around, found people tucked away whom I would never otherwise have discovered, asked questions and kept going.
The help I received was extraordinary. People gave me their time, shared their knowledge and helped me find beautiful end-of-line jewellery at prices I could afford.
Those pieces helped fill my shop. I’m still grateful to the people who opened their doors to us.
Then we made a day of it.
I discovered salt beef sandwiches. We went on the London Eye, where I imagined Willow might admire St Paul’s or the Houses of Parliament.
Her favourite? The Egyptian obelisk. Of course.
Then Hamleys, where she enthusiastically filled a bag with toys.
Getting us back to the station involved some careful distraction and leaving that bag behind. 😂
On later buying trips, I believe my little business companion upgraded her outfit to a fairy.
Looking back, that day captures so much of how I started: a small budget, an eye for beautiful things, a daughter beside me and a willingness to knock on doors.
It makes me think how much can begin simply by introducing yourself.
Sometimes with a lunch invitation.
Sometimes with a little witch holding your hand.
Who opened a door for you when you were starting out?
Daniel Priestley your post about arriving in London and inviting people to lunch brought back a wonderful memory of starting my own business, thank you for the inspiration today!
Donna xx
