I started making jewellery as a hobby to wear myself. However, people started to ask me where I was getting my jewellery from and if I could make them something I realised I might be able to turn my hobby into a business.

At first I did it alongside my job but once I became a mummy to two boys the combination of a commute into London and long days in childcare for the boys meant I needed to look at my priorities. I decided to concentrate on the jewellery full time. I have been selling at craft fairs and getting great feedback and many repeat customers so I think that now is the time to launch 196 Jewellery Design on a larger scale.

I make all the jewellery myself in our spare room (which is now full of beads). I generally work with semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals and David Christensen art glass beads.

I am mum to two boys so jewellery making gives me the opportunity to keep in touch with my feminine side.