Last year I got to know some amazing wedding vendors and I was determined to showcase some of them this year. The first vendor to be featured is Claire Ogden of Claire Ogden Designs. She creates amazing one off fashion accessories for the discerning bride. In the following interview she tells us a bit about herself.

 

 Tell us a bit about you …

I am a very determined passionate individual with the drive and determination to push myself into the demanding industry populating it with beautiful, handmade and very individual bridal headwear. I pride myself on making stunning pieces that stand the test of time and make that everlasting impression, Once Seen, NEVER Forgotten.

 Tell us a bit about your business and what you offer …

I have been established for two years. I design and create handmade jewellery and more so bridal pieces on a ‘off the peg’ and ‘bespoke’ option and offer an excellent customer service. I listen to what you want and create the perfect pieces for your dream day.

 

Why are you different?

I create one of a kind designs, unique to each bride. I love working closely with the bridal party and I love watching the design unfold before my eyes. I am different because I create unusual designs at affordable prices that create such an impression and adore every minute of it.

 

What inspires you and where do you find your inspiration?

When I am resourcing new materials or pieces for a bespoke design I tend to pick pieces that I connect with from this the idea for the design develops simply from me choosing that particular piece, I often ‘see’ the finished product as a photograph in my mind and then produce a quick sketch, when I have finished the design and go back to my sketch it is quite scary how alike the two are!

I also adore the whimsical fairy tale theme, I love magic and enchantment and delicate florals, I have a couple of new ranges yet to launch but until I find all the materials I want to use you will simply have to wait.....watch this space! 

I wanted to create themes that would be classics and never date, I have recently launched LOVE Wonderland (which is Alice and her Wonderland inspired) and Charming Fairytales(which are all things fairytale charm bracelets) both these ranges are fast sellers and very sight after (I seriously need to create lots more for my store)

I find I create what I like rather than follow fashion and trends, I am not sure if this is the correct way to do things but it makes my jewellery a lot more unique and individual and I do get a lot of repeat business so I guess I must be doing something right.

 

I want to create a very bold gothic style range that is completely unique to me and very rich and lavish but again at affordable prices. Watch this space for 2012.

 

Are you self-taught or have you a degree or professional training etc?

I am self taught, a have to admit I keep at something until it is perfect too, I have very high standards!

 

Do you have a studio/workshop at home? Where do you make your creations?

I work in my study at home, if the sun shines I work in the garden but all my computer work and purchasing is done in the study.

 

Do you make bespoke pieces for brides and bridesmaids based on their own ideas/themes? If yes, describe the process of consultation and design from first contact to finished product.

Yes, it tends to me more on their themes, colours and era rather than their own ideas, it begins with making lots of contact, I work very closely with each bride to be or bridal party, I get a feel for what they are trying to achieve and draw up some sketches, take photographs (lots of them) of materials and the sketches, alternative designs and materials I feel may work better and colours that may not have been considered. I am always touching base with my clients and discussing all the different aspects, I sketch up ideas from our discussions and then the odd one or two as an ‘alternative’ that are more elaborate or outrageous, (more often than not these are the chosen sketches) and send everything through via email or

meet up for a consultation, once the sketch has been agreed on I go away and create. Budget and costings are always outlined in the beginning and timescales and delivery dates are set out as a priority. 

Once I have finished the piece it is them photographed and sent through via email and I touch base yet again to hear their thoughts (this is always the very best bit).

 

 

How long does a tiara take to make?

Between 4-7hours if you don’t include all the sourcing of materials, telephone conversations, sketching and photograph taking!

 

What is your favourite piece that you make/have made?

My all time favourite is Breathless but I also have a love for many of the bespoke orders I have completed. The piece I made for my recent award win is very unique and people adore it!

 

Have you ever had a last-minute ‘rush job’ to ensure delivery before a wedding?

Yes! I had just launched my bridal range and was asked to create 2 bracelets, 2 haircombs, 1 necklace and a pair of earrings all in one week (after a consultation on the Saturday before) that left me 5 days to complete the order! I managed it with beautiful results but I have to say I am very glad things are not always so rushed.

 

You pride yourself in being individual and unique; how do you achieve this?

Every piece is one of a kind, it is unique to you, it can’t be bought in a chain shop and it will not be made again. I put so much time and effort into every single piece that is has to be unique and if I feel it isn’t I will not sell it!

 

Talking of ambition, where would you like your business to be 5 years from now?

Hopefully working full time on Claire Ogden Designs. My dream is to break the wedding industry and be on demand LOL, there is no harm in dreaming!

 

 

We’re in a global recession – how did you find your business during 2011?

I have to admit I have had a good year, my wedding side has boomed (people are always getting married) and my new ranges are selling well too. As jewellery is a luxury I never expect people to buy in the masses, I design and create and add to my shop and people buy why they see it and fall in love!!

 

Do you promote your work purely online, or do you attend shows, stock stores/galleries etc?

I sell online, have a stockist in Macclesfield (Mootiful) and attend various craft shows / fairs / vintage sales.

 

What can we expect from you in 2012?

Lots more beautiful designs, hot news and amazing blog posts. I have loads planned so you really do have to watch this space!!

 

Where are you based?  Online 24/7, Saddleworth

What areas do you cover? Worldwide

Contact number: 0843 289 9379

 

E-mail: mailme@claireogdendesigns.com

Website: www.claireogdendesigns.com