This week I had my second delivery of candles ... quite exciting, as I sold 50 candles in the first few days of trading and needed to restock almost immediately.

Caroline from Simply Scottish Candles was full steam ahead with production, despite the challenges of UK candle tin shortages. Already I am seeing trends in sales, with one or two scents emerging as favourites with the customers.

This will inform future production and stock. The fact that the Shabby sheep all have names appears to be particularly endearing, setting the candles apart from competitors. Baa..rbara and her strawberry and rhubarb scented candle nearly sold out !

After my ‘job talk’ at Kilsyth Rotary on Thursday there were further sales to boost the already healthy figures. 

This weekend meant packing up the car with framed prints, candles and coasters and heading off to Melrose in the Scottish Borders for The Colourful Edits market in Darnick Village Hall.

My favourite online shop for trendy neckwear is The Colourful Edit, so I jumped at the chance to participate when Lauren invited me to take a stall at her market

It was highly likely that I would buy more neckwear. I bought two more, just to balance the weight in my case!!!! Well, I need to justify my spending.... I hardly need another scarf ... I could start a shop! Cerise and purple on this outing. 

I stayed at The Barn at The Courtyard B and B... I recommend it as the owners were very welcoming, the room was warm and well-appointed and the breakfast was great, including their own home-made granola which was to die for.

There was a lot of Prosecco and mince pies at The Market, but my favourite was the warm, non-alcoholic mulled wine. As well as selling framed prints, cards, coaster and candles I managed to do some Christmas shopping myself. It felt important to support talented, local artists and makers.

The market was however more focused on the lovely neckwear, colour consultation, makeup demos and jewellery. Sales fluctuate according to the venue and audience ...an interesting learning curve.