MJ BAKES Mary Allen, founder/baker says... MJ Bakes is an independent Kent bakery that creates unique ‘Save the Date’ treats, personalised favours and wedding party gifts, alongside showstopping wedding cakes that taste every bit as delicious as they look. What is the most popular product you offer? Our most popular product is our handcrafted iced biscuits. We offer a vast selection of shapes and designs which can be personalised with the couple’s own message and make unique wedding favours. Why is it important to choose local suppliers? By choosing local suppliers, couples are actively supporting independent businesses within their community, embracing creativity, quality and sustainability! What does your dream customer look like? The beauty of being a wedding supplier is that no two weddings are the same. I love to help couples celebrate their own unique style through all the little personal touches. From Metallica-themed biscuits for heavy metal fans, to beautifully decorated cakes with ingredients and flowers that hold special meaning for the couple, and personalised favours that add a little sweetness to the special day; MJ Bakes can help create something tailored to the couple. Check out www.mjbakes.co.uk FEATHERY WREATHS Alison Kittermaster, owner/maker says... I’m a photographer and still photograph a number of weddings, however more recently I’ve started a small business making feather wreaths and table decorations. It all began last year, when I made myself a pheasant feather wreath to decorate my door at Christmas. After posting this on my Instagram (blushphotographykent) a number of followers then requested that I made them similar pieces. I then had a funny reel that went viral (725k) because my dogs found my stash of feathers and created havoc in my home! Having seen this positive reaction, I decided to make a few more designs and started using different feathers including partridge, peacock, goose feather and guinea fowl. The initial reaction to the goose feather wreaths and table decorations has been very encouraging as they are new, unique and so luxurious. I sell online at Etsy as well as direct to the customer and to a few local retailers. I also had a stand at the Midwinter Fair organised by the Wealden Times in November last year and to my surprise, I sold out! What is the most popular product you offer? The goose feather products are new, as of this February 2024, and I feel that they offer a wonderful alternative to flowers. They are ethically sourced, have been treated and of course they last forever! They are light to transport and can be hired or bought. Why is it important to choose local suppliers? Supporting local is so positive for several reasons; firstly, your carbon footprint, and it also promotes local growth and innovation. Smaller companies tend to have better customer service too! What does your dream customer look like? The goose feathers would be perfect for a couple tying the knot at any time of the year. I can make a number of sizes so they can be as extravagant as the client likes, or understated yet still stylish. The other feathers that I use would be incredible for autumn/winter weddings. Check out www.etsy.com/uk/shop/FeatheryWreaths 52
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