Suffolksense on High Street, Wickham Market, thrives in its first year

A company selling handmade products by Suffolk-based creatives is celebrating its first anniversary.

Suffolksense in Wickham Market, near Woodbridge, is set to mark one year open with a free raffle to win a hamper brimming with handcrafted Suffolk items on May 13.

The shop on High Street was started by two lifelong friends in May 2022, and since then has promoted Suffolk’s artists by putting on regular exhibitions, mini-markets and workshops – as well as selling their goods.

Becki Garrod, who started the shop with Susie Cartmell, said: “There is such a diversity of talent in our beautiful county.

“We just don’t have the room to stock everything, so the mini-markets are a great way for us to work and support a greater range of small businesses.”

The year has been tough for retailers and Suffolksense hasn’t been immune to that, but the two founders say they have ever sat back and waited for customers to come in – instead running regular events to showcase what the shop has to offer.

The pair explained: “Would we have started suffolksense when we did if we’d been able to look into the future? Possibly not!

“But positive comments from our customers and suppliers alike make our day and inspire us.”

The number of crafters supplying the shop has risen from 31 to over 100 since opening, and the owners describe getting to know many local Suffolk suppliers as one of the highlights of the last year.

As the shop moves into its second year, it continues its ethos of stocking handmade, sustainable and beautiful products by supporting the array of crafting and artistic talent Suffolk has to offer.

Bead jeweller and crafter Caro Blake said: “Suffolksense’s support of small businesses is absolutely appreciated, especially in these financially difficult times. It's lovely knowing you are there for us.”

Local artist Frances Brittain agrees: “Your advice and support has really helped me think about my presentation and marketing.”