1. The be inspired project
Flying Teaspoons
Laura Clamp
Flying Teaspoons is a greetings card publishing company in which artist Laura Clamp uses magazine cuttings to create humorous and distinctive animal themed imagery. The cards are sold via an online shop, in high street shops across the country and at monthly artisan markets around.
Just wanted to say how much I loved your card designs that I saw at Rode Hall Farmer's Market this morning. I opted for the pigeon but will definitely look out for you next time to buy more - they really made me smile
- Gina, Client
The be inspired project
I applied because I felt I needed the support from others who have experience in building a business as well as financial support.
It has hugely benefited my company. I have had great support from my Beinspired mentor and have been put in contact with invaluable external art organizations in Stoke-on-Trent which helped me get a place at a prestigious Trade Fair for free.
Through having the funding, I have been able to print my cards in mass quantities enabling me to sell more at markets and to more shops. The mentoring has also been one of the best bits of the programme as its rare to have free one to one support and guidance from experienced individuals in your sector. My confidence has increased massively whilst on the course. I can easily talk about my business to other people and I have great faith in what I can achieve. I have had the opportunity to work with so many new people and it has helped me develop my social skills a great deal.
My advice for people thinking of joining BeInspired would be to think ambitiously. Use the funding wisely, and put yourself out there as much as you can.
I have learnt however that I work so much better when I have a list of things to work through from the very beginning of the day which also helps me prioritse. The programme has helped build my confidence in new ventures by placing me out of my comfort zone in situations.
The Future
I will be working on my business full time with hopefully a member of staff. I want to be making a steady income via online sales and I wish to have more product ranges.