Supplier case studies
utani-uk
Name: Joy Thomsen
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Tell us a bit about yourself and your business
I am a fashion designer who cares passionately about the ethical issues that affect people. I set up utani-uk in 2006 as a response to the ‘make poverty history campaign’ 2005. I support fair-trade and ethical projects empowering overseas and local crafts people via my business in any which way possible.
What or who inspires you?
Brave, strong, innovative, spiritual people, whether great historical social reformers, spiritual leaders, teachers or grass roots level instigators of change. People who achieve against the odds, think outside the box and act to improve the lives of others.
What do you enjoy most about running your business?
I enjoy the success of a ‘happy client’, creating something they really want and are delighted with, making it even better than they imagined it to be. Working for myself gives me the opportunity to do this. I gain a great sense of satisfaction as well as supporting global issues and other people.
What is the most challenging aspect?
The actual business side, everyday paper work and book-keeping for me is a chore which distracts from the creative. Having to generate interest through marketing and promotions in order to survive in business. I find it a real challenge to balance these two aspects of myself.
What do you feel you bring to an ethical wedding?
I have done a lot of research and have sourced fair-trade and ethical fabrics that are organic, less damaging to the environment and therefore very ‘people friendly’. For me to be able to creatively contribute towards the happiness of a wedding, be it the wedding dress, something for the groom, bridesmaids, mother of the bride, flowers or accessories is an honor.
How do you see your business developing to cater for the growing number of brides and grooms looking for an ethical wedding?
I have recently begun creating flowers, from buttonholes to bouquets, from the fair trade and organic fabrics I use for my clothes range. My flowers have been designed to look as natural as possible and like real flowers each flower is unique. They are all individually hand crafted. I see them as a work of art, lovingly produced and presented for a keepsake and lasting memory of a truly special occasion.