Tea with…..Natasha Wakefield of Spindrift Collections
Written by Julia Bickerstaff // June 27, 2014 // Daily Juice // No comments
We’re doing a series of interviews. Today meet Natasha Wakefield! Natasha runs Spindrift Collections and she makes breathtaking ethical and sustainable jewellery and artworks! We know Natasha because she’s doing our Healthy Income Program!
Natasha at work!
Natasha, What does your business do?
I make sterling silver jewellery with unique sea smoothed beach glass
From Spindrift Collections
Why did you start it?
I started Spindrift as I had a burning desire to use my creativity and I could see a gap in the market for some unique beachy designs.
How long have you been in business?
Since 12.12.12 – I thought it would be a good date to launch as I was never going to forget it!
What’s a lesson you’ve learned the hard way?
Never give up!
Tell us about a business success you’ve had!
Being approached by an online boutique wanting to stock my jewellery was a fantastic success.
Beach glass silk wrap pendant from Spindrift Collections
What has running a business taught you about yourself?!
Its taught me that I really can do anything that I want, I just have to go out and get it!
What aspect of running your business do you find toughest?
I think I find the hardest part of running the business is having to do everything on your own. In previous jobs there were always people to bounce ideas off. This is one of the reasons I joined the Business Bakery, in order that I could have that connection with other people running similar businesses.
Which aspect of running your business do you like best?
I love that I can set my own pace, work my own hours and use my creativity.
Beach glass necklace from Spindrift Collections
What’s your best tip for getting stuff done?
Lists and more lists! I love to write lists of tasks and tick them off when I’m done. I find it very useful.
How do you manage your to-do list?
I prioritise the list into the most important things & least important things & get the most urgent things done first.
What’s your best tip for finding customers?
Talking to everyone you know about your business – as it’s amazing the contacts and leads you get through your networks.
What has most surprised you about running a business?
The amount of hours it takes each week to keep everything running smoothly!
How do you pick yourself up on a bad day?
I got for a walk along the beach and get some fresh air – always makes me feel better!
Natasha on the beach….
(Wishful thinking!) I’m giving you $5000 (£2500) to spend only on your business. How will you spend it?
I think at this stage I would spend it on materials to make more stock, and marketing to get my company even better known.
I’ve got an employee for you. She will work 80 hours over the next 4 weeks. She’s very trustworthy and can do type of work. What would you get her to do?
I would get her to do some market research for me and marketing.
What’s your busiest time of the year?
Any one of the holidays – such as Christmas, mothers Day, Valentines Day etc!
What are you most proud of?
Im most proud of actually having the confidence to start the business in the first place.
When you turn a hobby you love into a business, it can drain a lot of the joy out of it, how do you keep it fun?
No two days for me are ever the same, I’m always working on new ideas and exciting new collections, so its always fun!
What keeps you going when it feels like what you’re trying to accomplish is so far off?
I think the “20 reasons why I started my business and won’t quit” – exercise from the business bakery was a fantastic list that I often refer to when I’m feeling like I need to remind myself of why I’m doing it. Thanks Julia [Aw, thank YOU! x]
At work…
Who inspires you?
So many people inspire me, the list would be endless!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
To get yourself out there.
What’s your personal motto or favourite quote?
Not all those who wander are lost – JRR Tolkien
A blog you like to read?
A small business resource you recommend?
The Business Bakery of course!
What’s a small business you love or respect or admire?
They are not so small anymore but I really admire ELK
How many hours do you sleep a night?
8 hours…
Thank you Natasha! Want to find out more about Natasha or connect with her? Here you go:
Website: www.spindriftcollections.com
Facebook page: Spindrift Collections
Pinterest: Tasha Wakefield
Twitter: @_spindrift
Etsy Shop: Spindrift Collections
Instagram: Spindrift Collections
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