S I L V E R L I N I N G .

Yesterday I wandered around Gundy's Christmas market, a place of local makers, creatives & heartwarming stories.

A beautifully presented array of stalls manned by the artisans themselves, so much 'good stuff' to stuff those Xmas stocking with. But one stall, in particular, caught my magpie eye and held my attention.

As a lover of jewelry (what girl isn't?) I was drawn to Gaye Stone's collection of handmade, hand-cut & hand-bent bangles, bracelets, hair clips and rings upcycled from CUTLERY. Beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces lay before me ready to delve into and rummage through which gave me the opportunity to engage in conversation with Gaye. And I am so pleased I did.

This talented lady resides in Millmerran, the rural Queensland town than has tragically been hit by the raging bush fires. Gaye lives on a very remote property, with no direct neighbours and no mobile signal. In fact, she didn't learn about the flames engulfing the surrounding area until she went to leave her home and the roads were closed off. She then learned of the sad news her storage unit containing much of her raw materials and other personal belongings had fallen victim to the blaze.

The Gundy market was a great escape for her. You can really feel, see and hear the passion this lady has for her business, sourcing beautiful antiques from overseas (with the help of her brother in California) and scouring vintage/second-hand stores for items in which she can breathe new life into.

I purchased an amazing and unique silver plated ring from Gaye made from an early 20th-century teaspoon, possibly manufactured in Sheffield - a British city renowned for its metalwork and a city I resided in for the best part of 2018.

I am not only proud of my new piece of jewelry, but I am also proud to wear something which I have met the maker, heard their story and contributed in a very small way to supporting a rural business, a talented artist and a REAL person.

I will now wear this ring that has so much meaning, I will think of this lady, our conversation and let it be a reminder to me of how important it is to take the time out to listen to others and understand their story.

Thank you Gaye, and thank you to all the small businesses that continue to work tirelessly through the tough times. We appreciate your resilience, passion and providing the world with something special.

This Christmas I will #BUYFROMTHEBUSH I hope you will too!