I am looking forward to new possibilities, space to work on my own ceramics and develop ideas. I am starting to develop workshops for next year. I am thinking of what can be achieved in the future. I am looking at building more shelves! Watch this space. 2019 is looking at being an exciting year. 

Have you got a favourite jewellery maker, potter or independent restaurant that you love? You may only treat yourself once or twice a year to one of their fabulous products but wish you could support them more. Well you can, and it only costs your time. Below are three simple ways you can help. Take 10 minutes a week or even a month to show your support.

1. Write a positive review. 
Most business are at least on Facebook and Google Business. Some are on Trip Advisor, Etsy, or craft courses. It takes a couple of minutes to write a 5 star review and it helps new customers who are debating about using their services. It also makes your independent retailer or crafter feel happy and keeps them going through a difficult day.  A Google review will make the business more prominent and easier for people to find on Google. Just type the name of your favourite business into google. If they are on Google maps it will ask you if you would like to write a review. Click on the link below to see an example (Not surprisingly it is a link to Creative Clay For All on Google)

2. Enter them for an award
There are an enormous amount of local and national awards. One of them would be fantastic for your local business to win. It will take you up to 15 minutes of your time to complete a nomination for your favourite business or artist. Even if they do not get to be a winner or a finalist, being nominated is a big thing. Most of the awards give a special nomination badge to display on the businesses website and across social media. The nomination can attract an article in a local magazine or encourage other businesses to invest in them. All that from 15 minutes of your time! Below are some awards coming up in 2019.  Other awards open during the year can be found in local and national magazines and papers.

3. Like and comment on social media
Social media is changing all the time. Trying to hide local business posts even if you have liked their page. Social media are trying to push small business into spending lots of money they do not have on advertising. By liking your favourite independent business' posts or better still commenting or sharing/ reposting, it will make that business more prominent.  Now what are you waiting for? Go and support everyone.