Mellor Ware

I have registered with Liberty Best of British open day for 2012 and whilst looking at their website I came accross one of this years successsful designers Lianne Mellor of Mellor Ware ceramics. I was really impressed with Lianne's collection of tea party ware and it is not too far removed from what I produced for my final project at Uni. I emailed Lianne with some questions regarding her brand and business and she was kind enough to reply ... heres what she said ......

Why did you decided to produce ceramics after having graduated in architecture?

I started selling my illustrations at art markets in 2008, it was only in the summer holidays between my studies, but one I’d got the thrill of somebody wanted to buy something I’d created, there was no going back. When I graduated in 2009, I gave myself 12 months to turn my passion into a business, It was 3 months into this period when I decided that in order to create a viable business I’d have to design product. I’ve always loved tea party sets, so it seemed like a natural progression.

Is your collection manufactured in the Uk and if so do you intend to continue with this production method?

It certainly is. For markets and online, I hand decorate all the pieces with my decals and fire them in my tiny kiln. To fulfil the orders for Liberty, I use a manufacturer in Stoke. It’s hugely important to me to keep manufacture in the UK.

Did you get any grants to help set up your business?

I did a business start up course in 2010 on the Wirral, once my business plan was approved I received a £500 grant which I used to buy a digital camera and to go towards purchasing a kiln.


I know you would like to develop your range of goods so what is next on your list?

This month has seen the launch of three Mellor Ware tea towels (printed in Manchester). I’d love to design more kitchen textiles such as aprons and oven gloves!

Thanks so much Lianne for taking time out to answer my question . I wish you continued success with your lovely range of products.
http://www.mellorware.co.uk/index.htm

looks like we are in business!

I have seen a wonderful business adviser via Blue Orchid ,who feels that my ideas and products have sales potential and together we have drawn up an initial cash flow projection which looks like I have a viable business opportunity . I have also been given business funding from the bank which again is a positive sign in such a difficult financial climate . Another major bonus is my brilliant web developer Claire Worthington who is really putting her self out to help get things up and running . Every now and then in life things all come together and I feel that this is one of those times . My next step is to buy stock and start producing a product range to sell ...... watch this space !!
http://www.theblueorchid.co.uk/
https://twitter.com/#!/WorthyOnTheWeb

Post Graduation !

Well can you Adam and Eve it, I only went and got a degree !!!!! Its pretty unbelievable for a forty something single parent with a part time job and lots of other plates spinning ! The other funny thing is that I saw the course as a journey and experience more than a career move but I have actually sold some of my work , to my astonishment people seem to like it and have been happy to pay for it . So away with the self doubt and the negative comments ( I no longer have to tick boxes for tutors or conform to the constraints of the education system ) I am going to run with it !!!

I am currently attending business planning workshops , so let the scheming begin .........

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Catherine-Summers-Design/176963452360049