0 In Retail Therapy

In conversation with The Black Rabbit

Christmas decorations created by Lindsay Marsden

I came across Lindsay when visiting the Top Drawer trade show in London scouting for gorgeous British made products to sell in my boutique. Unique, individual and imaginative, her designs jumped out at me and it was easy to see that she was at the beginning of a very exciting new business career.

So here’s my exclusive interview with Lindsay Marsden, owner of The Black Rabbit.

Profession?
Small Business owner and designer.

What do you actually do?
I design and make a range of illustrated paper gifts, greetings cards and knitted toys for my company The Black Rabbit.
What was your first job?
My first proper job after graduating from art college in Winchester was for the stylist Graham Hollick, I helped him create trends displays for the Italian Fabric Fair Prato Expo. We had to buy props and make decorations to create themed rooms to display the fabrics at the show.
What motivated you to start your own business?
After graduating from the Royal College of Art I worked in London for a while but I wanted to do something more hands on that would utlilise my love of making gifts. When I moved to Margate with my husband, Steve McPherson who is an artist, it was the ideal time to get started and after a little while I launched my first collection at the trade fair Top Drawer. I was very lucky to count Liberty of London as one of my first customers.
What’s your biggest entrepreneurial challenge?
The thing I have always found most difficult about running my own business is managing to do it all, making, selling, communicating with customers and allowing myself to have the creative space to make new work. I like the challenge of all of the different aspects of the business but it can be a tightrope sometimes, especially when the studio gets really busy with orders.
What inspires you to get out of bed every day!
There are always new things to make and design and I want to get on with it.
Can you describe yourself in 3 words?
Organised, impatient and imaginative.
What do you do as a special treat for yourself?
At the weekend I go with my husband and daughter to the Mad Hatters Tea rooms in Margate for a cream tea. It’s always decorated as Christmas in the cafe and 1920’s music is played. It’s very relaxing.
What does the word ‘style’ mean to you?
Being strong in your identity as a creator.
How would you describe your personal style?
My design work is quite naive and childlike, but always has a strong grounding in textile, colour and patterns.
Who is your idol?
The film director Wes Anderson, I love the colours, style and attention to detail in his films.
What’s your life motto?
Keep on working, even if it’s difficult, the idea will arrive soon!
What’s your advice to our readers?
Ooh I’m not sure I’m qualified to give advice…

Find out here, what Christmas Countdown Gifts Silberzahn Style and Lindsay personally recommend. 

Website – www.theblackrabbit.co.uk
Instagram, facebook and twitter – @blackrabbitnews

AS

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