Samantha Hall Designs creates British wildlife-inspired stationery, gifts and homeware.
Who or what inspires you and your products?
I am Inspired by the wonderful wildlife we have here in the UK. I love to paint woodland and farm animals, birds and pets. If you were to ask me my favourite animal, though, it would definitely have to be dogs! After discovering a lot of people also love dogs in the UK, they have definitely become a main theme in my work.
How did you start your business?
I started my business just before the pandemic hit back in 2019. I have always been creative, but I put off starting my small business because I thought I needed a “proper job”. However, that year, a friend of mine told me to quit my job and just like that, I quit! Best decision I have ever made.
After quitting the 9-5, I started by designing my first collection while my husband and I were travelling Canada for six months, which was the Labrador collection, based on my late chocolate Lab Jake. I then invested in some products, which was a range of homeware and gifts that really took off!
How did you choose the name of your business?
The name of my business is my own name, which I thought would keep it simple.
What do you enjoy most about the creative process?
I absolutely love painting with watercolours and seeing my initial thoughts and ideas come to life. To then see them transformed into patterns on my computer is such a buzz. I enjoy bringing both traditional and digital methods together to make a final piece of art.
What is the biggest challenge you've faced as a small business owner?
The biggest challenge I have faced has been this past year and the cost of living affecting my business. With the rising costs and my customers being more careful with how they spend their money, I have had to come up with interesting and budget–friendly gift sets and products. Even though it has been a challenge, I have loved coming up with new products and adapting to the new world we live in. Reacting to what my customer wants is my priority!
What is your hero product or one that means the most to you and why?
I would have to say my hero product is my brand–new backpack that I have created with my friend/seamstress Kat. We have been working behind the scenes for the past year and have created a practical and fun bag for day–to–day life. We have taken care with the design process and have made sure it is both practical and fabulous by adding lots of pockets, adding beautiful trims and, of course, using my signature fabrics.
What does a typical working day look like?
After a walk in the morning with Moko, he will come into my studio and sleep by my feet while I pack orders, answer emails and design new products. He is the best companion and employee at Samantha Hall Designs!
What tip (or tips) would you give anyone looking to start a small creative business?
I would say that you just need to go for it! Don’t be worried about whether customers will like your work or not. You will never know until you try! Take the leap of faith. Working for myself has helped my mental wellbeing and lets me follow my passion.
Shop Samantha Hall Designs at the Country Living Christmas Market this November for a thoughtful gift or a treat for yourself!