HOPE: So first tell me a bit about you and your awesome jewellery!

 

 

LIBBY: I live in North Yorkshire and studied BA(Hons) Photography and Fine Art. I have always loved everything arts and crafts but I really got into jewellery making in 2011/12. I started making my Vegan jewellery in early 2012 when I was actually looking for a piece for myself. There seemed to be lots available in the US but nothing in the UK. This led me to researching the technique of hand-stamping metal, I bought my first set of alphabet stamps and made my first vegan word jewellery. Since then I have learned a lot about metal-stamping and really honed the art. I love coming up with new ideas and I am so proud of my Vegan advocacy range. I think the jewellery is a great way to spread the Vegan message and can be worn at times when say a Vegan t shirt isn't appropriate.

 

 

HOPE: So is this something you have been doing full time since then? 

 

LIBBY: No, I work part time as a support worker in a University. I would love to do my jewellery full time in the not to distant future though!

 

 

HOPE: How have you generated interest in your brand? 

 

LIBBY: I use social media a lot. Especially Facebook and Instagram, I find these invaluable in generating interest because it is so immediate in getting my products seen. I also do Vegan fairs which I absolutely love!!!! As my business has grown I find my customers recommend me to their friends and family as well and I am so grateful for that.

 

 

HOPE: What advice would you give to someone who wanted launch themselves into the creative industry? 

 

LIBBY: Have patience! It takes a long time to get noticed and you really need to put the hours in. You probably won't see a great return for all your hard work for a while - it can take years, but don't give up. Remember why you're doing it in the first place.

 

 

HOPE: How long have you been a vegan?

 

LIBBY: I have been Vegan for three and a half years, previous to that I was vegetarian for thirteen years.