Madiha Zaidi talks to us about her creative arts business.
How would you describe your business in one sentence?
My business specialises in crafting handmade glass jewellery and art, alongside providing classes in needle felting, glass, and children's art.
When did you launch and who is behind it?
In November 2023, I launched my handmade glass jewellery in various shops in Richmond, and in the same month, I hosted my first Needle Felting Fairy workshop.
When did your lightbulb moment happen?
Participating in Creative Glass classes sparked my passion, but the craving for creative freedom led me to invest in tools and experiment at home. The discovery of distinctive shimmering glass online ignited my imagination, inspiring the creation of bespoke jewellery. Wearing my own designs with pride not only established a personal connection but also captured the interest of others, ultimately leading to the birth of my own glass jewellery business.
I began making my needle felted fairies for fun. The turning point came at an exhibition where the demand for my creations became clear. I realised the impracticality of individually crafting each piece for a business, due to it being too time consuming. That’s when I had the idea to run workshops to teach others my needle felting skills.
What did you do prior to starting your business?
Joining their IT graduate scheme, I spent 11 years at John Lewis head office. During my tenure, I took on various roles including programmer, service delivery manager, line manager, and project manager. Alongside, I launched a small property business that's still thriving.
What would you say were the most challenging aspects of setting up the business?
- Time management: balancing the demands of teaching, running creative workshops, designing and creating my jewellery and other products
- Scaling up my business as I do not own my own kiln at the moment, due to cost and space restrictions
- Photography of my jewellery: given the unique nature of the glass which changes colour depending on the light, it is really difficult to capture the colour changing effect in the photos. I have yet to find someone who can do this successfully
The smartest career decision you made…
The decision to leave my corporate job after burning out and taking a career break. This period of reflection allowed me to reassess my priorities, focusing on achieving a better work-life balance and pursuing my passion in alignment with my core values.
The most difficult lesson you learnt
You can't please everybody, so it's essential to prioritise your own satisfaction and wellbeing.
The best career advice you received…
to pursue something I truly enjoy, with the confidence that success and financial rewards would follow naturally.
What type of support have you received since starting your business?
Through Richmond Council’s Phoenix Enterprise Programme, I got the opportunity to exhibit my work last year at Patch. This experience boosted my confidence and played a crucial role in propelling forward with my business idea.
What type of support (if any) have you received from the Council in relation to your business?
I have also recently joined the Zenith Enterprise Programme, which offers support for expanding my business through mentoring and networking opportunities.
What do you think residents can do to support their local businesses?
By purchasing local products, sharing local offerings, and spreading the word about local talents and work. Engaging with us on social media, liking our pages, and sharing with their network can make a significant impact.
If you had the opportunity to do it all again, what would you do differently?
Overcome the fear of taking risks sooner and embraced the opportunities. Recognising that we are often our own worst enemies, I would approach challenges with more confidence and a willingness to go for it.
Top three tips you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs/launching a business
- Overcome overthinking and excuses by taking decisive action. Action breeds progress
- Embrace the idea that failure is a part of the journey; not trying is the true failure
- Don't feel compelled to reinvent the wheel. Identify existing models, make them your own, and enhance them. Your unique touch can turn something good into something exceptional
Finish this sentence: I like being based in Richmond because…
…of its splendid parks, a vibrant and diverse community, and the abundance of captivating historical spots to explore and enjoy.
How can people find you?
Instagram: @invokelondon/