I love any initiative that supports local independent businesses to thrive, especially fledgling crafty and design shops! I was enthusiastic to read about "New windows on Willesden Green", one of the Mayor’s Outer London Fund projects, aiming to reactivate empty retail spaces by offering them rent-free to new businesses.
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| From this..... |
An old Textiles building on Queens Parade was revamped, divided into units and given over for a limited period to 13 new businesses, ranging from vintage to hand made crafts. Each one had to give something back to the local community.
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| ...to this! |
One of the units, "Roses and string", a delightful boutique and workspace owned by Laura of "Alice with love" and Heather of "As you wish crafts", showcases and sells beautiful hand crafted home-wares, accessories and gifts.
Laura and Heathers way of giving back to the community is by hosting weekly craft sessions "Chit Chat and Make" with tea and cake served in dainty old china.
During a recent visit to the Manchester craft centre, I saw some paper flowers decorating a display cabinet and was intrigued how they were made, so when "Roses and String" CC&M's session last week was on how to make them, I popped along to learn!
It took me a few attempts to get it right, and I'm still practicing! The flowers can be used for anything - from simple table decorations to gift tags!
"Queens Parade and the lovely Roses and String is well worth a visit"