Dear Friends and Customers far and wide,
I've just been reflecting on what an amazing year it's been for Julia and I.
When we opened our shop doors on Lewes High Street, over 20 years ago, we never dreamt we'd still be here, albeit online, with those same loyal customers who've been with us from those early days. I know it's been a tough year for many so the fact that you continue to support us really means so much to mum and I.
Since closing our bricks and mortar store a few years ago, FLINT has grown into an altogether different kind of business and has been the springboard for all sorts of exciting off shoots. It's always rather nervewracking stepping into new territories as a small business and there are no guarantees however, we've been truly amazed at where our paths have led us recently and are really excited to see what the new year brings.
A brief update about where we are and what we're up to...
Julia's paper flowers are now selling all over the world and her installation at Harrods in October this year was a really incredible opportunity. It has led to a couple of very exciting commissions and it's just amazing to see how she's developing her skills. She is hosting a series of paper flower making workshops at our Sussex studio in the new year and is currently taking bookings so if you're interested in joining us, please send us an email or a DM on her new instagram page @Flowers_in_paper
We love nothing more than collaborating with like minded friends and colleagues and one recent project that we just adored was supplying the wonderful Alex and Jess of Aesme Studio with some of our handdyed silk ribbons for a gorgeous installation they created at Sissinghurst in Kent. Click here to watch a little film they made about the project. It's on until February next year so please do go if you can..
I'm balancing my time at FLINT with my work as a stylist for all kinds of interesting brands and companies, and continuing my work for Basecamp Maasai Brand, based at Saruni Basecamp with the Maasai women in Kenya. I return to Africa in January to begin plans on a very exciting new development involving the local women in Maasai Mara. To keep tabs on me, please follow my feed @Heidifrancis_stylist
Thank you again for your continued support and for choosing to shop with us again this year. We wish you and your loved ones a very happy and peaceful holiday season.
With love,
Heidi and Julia xx
Laying a table for family and friends at Christmas time is one of the moments I look forward to. For me, it's all about dressing a scene, creating a welcoming table with the promise of good company and good food in a beautiful setting. This year, I'll be keeping things traditional with a colour scheme of berry red and forest green with my favourite white china serveware, vintage silver and heirloom crystal glasses. We've sourced some gorgeous quilted red velvet placemats, together with some natural linen napkins that coordinate perfectly. We also have in our collection some pretty etched glass wine glasses and some frosted glass tealite holders that will bring a touch of shimmer and sparkle to the table.
Take a look at these and many more ideas we hope might inspire you, by clicking the image above..
Happy browsing xx
Whisper the word, Christmas is coming! Head over to our dedicated page to find our selection of gifts and decorations for you, your loved ones and your home. Click the link to find out more x
Despite it feeling like the hottest day of the year so far, I couldn't resist posting about our latest delivery of Annapurna shawls of the most luxurious and ethically sourced cashmere. We have a small selection, chosen with utmost care from one of our favourite cashmere companies, based in Devon but made in Nepal. The colours are serenely soft and very beautiful in shades ranging from sea blue to stone grey. Each one is handloomed and dyed by hand, using traditional techniques and feature an open textured weave that gives a lovely, marl effect. Explore our collection by clicking on the image below...
We have long been fans of the work by Suffolk based jeweller, Nicola Pawsey, who manages to find such beautiful and interesting stones and pearls for her understated and elegant pieces. Our latest collection features a collection of earrings and a necklace, using pearls of many shapes and sizes - from tiny seed pearls to statement baroque shapes. Browse some of our favourite pieces in her collection by clicking on these images.
What feels like many moons ago, the eponymous magazine dedicated to all things country, came calling. Photographer Rachel Warne followed Julia and I around in the garden and writer Jo Simmons had tea with us in the studio and you can see the results this month when it hits the shelves. For a sneak peak see here...
To me, mothers come in many different guises.. Whether a grandmother, a sister, a sibling, an aunt or a treasured friend, Sunday 10th March is all about celebrating the nurturing spirit. I feel very lucky.. I intend to spend the day with my mother Julia, showing her my appreciation and telling her how much she's loved, but I share her with many friends and relatives all of whom would agree, she's a mother to them all.
We have chosen a small range of gifts designed to delight, so if you feel like treating the one who makes you feel secure, nutured and loved, choose something from our selection to help bring a smile. Click on the image above to explore our edited collection xxx
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