We have just had the second Crafted workshop where Bill and Anda spoke to us about how they got started. The theme of the session was strategic planning. There was some interesting stuff but I felt it was slightly ahead of me...aimed at larger and more the established, businesses on the scheme. Having a board of directors seems a VERY long way off and very unlikely for me ever! There was much discussion about delegation. This is a huge dilemma for me, I can’t visualise how to make the jump from one person to many. My work seems to get more and more dependent on me rather than less. My 'hand' seems to be necessary for all the things I do. It makes me realise that I don't do enough MARKETING. I have perhaps relied too much on word of mouth and previously established contacts.

This meeting is with the Arts & Business PR rep Penny and the journalist Emma Crichton-Miller. It goes very well and conversation is animated. Bill and I seem to have the potential to make a good press story. We discuss the fact that our DIFFERENCE of subject matter is a positive and helpful dynamic. We all agree how important CRAFT is as the foundation of what we both do. Bill shows us around his workshop...so impressive, all the various products he now makes, an emphasis on having things made in UK. He has recently started sourcing even more leather workshops around the UK to employ. There is a relaxed yet professional dynamic in the workshop and office; it feels like a very pleasant, interesting place to work, intimate almost.