In October 2020, my husband and I welcomed our second child to the family. Our son was 17 months old at the time and it’s been a whirlwind! Having a baby in a pandemic has not been easy and I needed a new focus whilst on maternity leave. I have had two very different, difficult but rewarding feeding journeys. There were latch issues with them both in the early days and they have also had multiple food allergies. I’ve had to adapt my diet to their needs, but it’s been worth the long and difficult days.
I began working with resin during my first maternity leave and enjoyed how versatile it was. I had expressed breast milk in the freezer, that I could not feed to my son due to his allergies, and began to use this within my jewellery. My son stopped feeding just before he was a year old when I fell pregnant with his sister. This was a difficult time for me emotionally as we had built such a bond through our feeding journey. People saw the keepsakes that I had made for myself and began to ask if I would consider making for others. This led to me creating pieces for friends and other parents I had met at baby groups in my local area. It was at this point I was encouraged by my friends and family to make keepsakes for other mums to celebrate their journeys.
Having more time at home meant I could undertake training and learn even more new skills during this time. A lot of hard work, love and dedication goes into making keepsakes, especially when doing this alongside two children under two.
Liquid Jewels was founded in February 2021 during my maternity leave. Within the first week I was contacted by regional newspaper the EDP who featured me in an article, as well as an interview with a local radio station, Future Radio. This is when I realised my dream business was becoming a reality. It’s been a lovely way to get in touch with other mums and dads, as due to the pandemic groups and social outings have been limited. I am not only able to make a special keepsake but also build a special rapport at the same time.
My jewellery is made with locally sourced products where possible, including the use of local silversmiths who I work alongside to design some of the pieces within the range.
I ensure that I use as much recyclable packaging as possible and use vegan ethically sourced mica powders. I am fully insured, a member of The Guild of Jewellery Designers and comply with COVID safe measures, including milk storage and handling, to ensure there is no cross contamination.
It is just me making your pieces and I take the time and care I would when making my own. It is me you will hear from when making every enquiry, sending each message, invoice and making your pieces. I love getting to know you and hearing about your feeding journeys, including the highs and the lows.
As each piece of jewellery is so personal and unique to you, I feel it is important to discuss your requirements directly with you. It is for this reason that I encourage you to get in touch via the details on the contact page, rather than offering the option of purchasing through the website.
I can’t wait to make your special keepsake, so please get in touch to discuss this further.