Welcoming Autumn to Chirpy, keeping the door open (but adding an extra layer)!

The sun may have shone for the last week in September but there’s a definite nip in the air as we look back at the last 3 months at Chirpy.

 I welcomed July with a bucket list gig, getting to see Steve Wonder live has definitely been one of my highlights of the year, supported by local girl Corinne Bailey Rae which made it just that little bit special. Closely followed by a holiday in Croatia I was really thankful for my amazing team in July to let me have a bit of time out to relax and gather my thoughts for the rest of the year.

Straight back at it from my holiday with a visit to Harrogate Home & Gift, just a bus ride away, where I found some gorgeous new products which have already become best sellers at Chirpy. Just hoping I can keep them stocked up for Christmas as know they are going to be popular.

July saw the launch of Wellbeing Wednesday Meditations sessions – something a little bit different for us but we loved it. Looking forward to running these on a monthly basis so don’t forget to book. The next one is Wednesday 15th October - click HERE to book

 In August we said goodbye to Lizzie (& my Thursday mornings sleep ins!) as she’s got herself an exciting part time job as well as continuing to make her beautiful ceramics. Great excuse for a team night out trying out one of the newer bars in Chapel Allerton, Brew + Bao, which did not disappoint.

I had a flying trip to Aberdeen to help my daughter move into her new uni house (not quite as flying as planned thanks to storm Floris and a cancelled train). Then a day trip to London to meet up with some uni friends, though we didn’t really leave the vicinity of KX, too busy eating, drinking and catching up to actually take in any of the sights!

Despite the rain, Chapel Allerton Festival was another great success, as we supported it again as a wristband collection point, meaning new visitors to Chirpy who’d never been before. Let’s just hope they return soon and buy something!

 If you’ve wanted to find me in September then chances are I’ll have been at Chirpy! With a depleted team and staff holidays I’ve spent most of my time here, though huge thanks to Stacey and Molly for helping out when I needed a break.

Another flying visit to London, this time to visit Top Drawer, the trade show which for me really marks the start of autumn and the run up to Christmas. A great show, a chance to catch up with retail pals, suppliers and of course find some new products.

We celebrated Thinking of You Week with a week-long competition, sending cards on behalf of our winners to spread a bit of Chirpy love and joy.

 Our workshop programme got off to a great start, with Jesmonite, Fused Glass & Calligraphy workshops as well as our second Meditation session which left me ready to take on the next 3 months and whatever it throws at me!

 We welcomed back Katie & May with their preloved clothing, a perfect way to end sustainable September. Did you pick up a preloved bargain?

 So as the sun sets a little bit earlier every day, the leaves start to fall and the temperature drops, we’re gearing up for the ‘Golden Quarter’. With marketing plans, purchasing spreadsheets and sales forecasts we’ve hoping the this year doesn’t disappoint. Every year we are always blown away by the support of our Chirpy customers and this year we need you more than ever as it’s been a tough year in retail. We hope you love the new products we have chosen and as ever we’re here to offer great customer service with a smile!

In October half term we see the return of mini Jesmonite Workshops for just £10 - click HERE to book. We also welcome back our amazing CHIRPYVERSARY card competition to celebrate our 9th anniversary. Throughout October buy a bundle of 5 cards in store or online and be in with a chance of winning a bundle of cards every month for a year, worth over £170! Head to our online store to be in with a chance of winning

Here’s to a busy and successful autumn!

Hope to see you soon in Chirpy

Jo x

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6 of the best creative workshops coming up at Chirpy this Autumn

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

What’s different about Chirpy?

We’re not just a fabulous gift shop fulfilling all your gifting needs for all occasions but we’ve also got a wonderful workshop space dedicated to bring our customers great creative workshops. All perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, the workshops offer a chance to enjoy a couple of hours of creative “you time” away from the huddle & bustle of everyday life. Come on your own or bring some friends, we’re a friendly lot!

Here’s 6 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Autumn

1. Jesmonite coaster workshop

Thursday 11th Sept 7-9pm Book here

Jesmonite seems to be everywhere unsurprisingly as bits such a fun material to work with. In this workshop you’ll create 2 unique hexagonal trays with a terrazzo design, perfect to using as coasters or trinket trays. As Jesmonite dries quickly you’ll take away your creations on the night

2 . Fused Glass Autumn Wreath

Thursday 18th September 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made by applying  frit (crushed glass) and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

3. Mindful Calligraphy

Thursday 25th September 7-9pm book here

A relaxing and mindful two hour workshop exploring the art of modern calligraphy. Suitable for complete beginners.

We start with warm up exercises and basic strokes, practice letterforms and then have a go at crafting your name, before moving into writing our own affirmations. This is an opportunity to tap into your creative flow and take a moment out of our hectic lives to be present and explore something new.

4. Ocean Reef painting workshop

Thursday October 2nd 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

Our aim is to unleash your own painting style and encourage you where needed. It’s your masterpiece and at the end your painting will be unique to you.

5. Fused Glass Highland Cow

Thursday 15th May 7-8:30pm- book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass?  Well here is your opportunity from Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker.

In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit (crushed glass) stringers (glass rods) and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass Highland Cow picture, perfect as a treat for yourself or a gift for a loved one. No cutting or grinding required!

On completion your item will be taken away and fused plus a wooden frame added.  It will then be returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

6. Doodlemap workshop

Thursday 23rd October 6:30 - 8:30pm book here

Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?

This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.

The Skye's the limit! (that's what she said)

The Skye’s the limit! (that’s what she said!)

It all started in January with an email from Coppafeel!. “Congratulations, you have a place on the Isle of Skye Trek in June 2025” (or words to the effect!). I actually yelped!

 Fast forward 5 months, after lots of practice walking and fundraising, the day had finally arrived, Friday 13thand I was on my way. Looking like an extra on a Ninja Turtle film*, I shuffled to the station to catch my train to Glasgow, ready to meet up with a group of other equally nervous and excited ladies, all taking on an adventure of a lifetime.

 I arrived at the Glasgow Youth Hostel just as a hoard of excitable women were getting back from dinner. They were unmistakably my crowd, given away by the very impractical cream coloured Coppafeel! sweatshirts provided for us and stick on facial hair (not official Coppafeel! merch!) Worried that I’d missed the initial bonding session I was quickly proven wrong, being welcomed with open arms and a cold beer. Then to bed as we had an early start to embark on the next part of our journey to the Isle of Skye.

Saturday morning was full of excitement, a hearty breakfast then we squashed into taxies to get to our hotel meeting point. I couldn’t quite believe that the meeting point was on the first floor. In hindsight perhaps this was the first ascent. After team check ins, raffle tickets for our seats on the coaches and nervous conversation with more new people I was ready to go. I’d been lucky enough to meet me tent mate Sarah too and with the first hug I knew we’d get on just fine.

 Fast forward 7 hours (the coach journey wasn’t that exciting, despite a pit stop at Fort William, a last cheeky McDs and a run round Morrisons to pick up loo roll) and we finally arrived at our campsite. The tents were all neatly in a row as were the Portaloo’s. Just time to unpack and dinner was served. A broken generator and missing kit from Mountain Warehouse didn’t dampen the excitement as we get into our team for our first team briefing with our Charity Challenge leaders, Steph, Ian & Graham (Anna was to join us the next day). I knew we’d be in good hands. Meeting our team leader Ekin Su and the imitable Gi Fletcher for the first time made this all very real. So for an early night ready for our first trek on Sunday.

 Whether it was the nerves, the thin blowup mattress, the  chatter,  the constant sound of zips going as people went to the loo throughout the night or the fact that it never really got dark, it’ s fair to say it was not a good night’s sleep. But nothing a bacon sandwich and the best banana bread ever couldn’t sort out. Boots on and ready to go, our team’s first trek was from the Old Man of Storr to Portree, the Isle’s capital. I knew I would struggle with the pace of the trek being a really fast walker and though I kept Gi’s advice in the back of my mind of dropping to the back to scoop people up I spent most of the first trek near the front. There was still lots of opportunity to chat to team mates and get to hear their inspirational stories and their “whys” for being there. Approaching Portree was like something off the TV, literally, as it’s where Ballamory was filmed, with its gorgeous row of pastel coloured houses. With half an hour to spare at the end of the walk we hit the shops  - you can take the girl out of Chirpy but you can never take indie retail out of the girl.

We were on a high on the coach after we’d completed the first day. One down, four to go and we were all still in one piece. Back to the campsite for a hearty chilli (still not sure how they did all of this without a generator), another team briefing to find out what Day 2 had in store for us.

There must be nothing better than starting your day with the Hokey Cokey! That really is what it’s all about! If it  was meant to be a sun dance then it certainly didn’t work. The start of the trek on Trotternish Ridge was very different from day one. Rougher terrain and uphill straight away actually suited me better and having hung back a bit I felt more part of the gang rather than leading from the front. The scenery was breathtaking and I was very grateful for the views which the team who had climbed it the day before had not been able to see due to the low cloud. This is quite a popular walk so we saw other walkers too, all of who looked quite bemused by a long trail of singing women. Today was definitely a day of 2 halves. Finishing lunch we felt a few spots of rain, which quickly turned into a deluge. Hoods up, heads down we trekked uphill for 4 hours through bogs. Needless to say my trusty five year old boots proved to be no longer waterproof , and with the strength of the wind even my bra & pants were wet! On the plus side, the walk led us straight back to the campsite so at least we didn’t have a soggy coach ride home.  The torrential rain all day had taken its toll on camp with the food and social tents being waterlogged as well as lots of the sleeping tents themselves. But that didn’t dampen our spirits. There was music and dancing led by our resident DJ Emily and great advice about how to get our boot insoles dry (putting them in your sleeping bag really does work). Sarah and I were a little cosier that evening as we welcomed Baby Hannah to our tent so she didn’t have to sleep in a puddle in hers. Messages from previous trekking celebrities including Vicky Pattison and Emma Willis lifted out spirits as we hunkered down for the night as the storm raged.

Peering out of the tent the next morning I wasn’t sure all of the tents would still be standing after such a stormy night. But they were! So putting back on our soggy walking boots we headed off to walk Rubha Hunish, the scenic coastal path. The cloud had lifted so we had  beautiful views of the Isle of Skye coast, surrounded by the sounds of birds and lots of running water, much of it we had to jump over. The walk took us to the most northern part of the island where we reached a cute Bothy, I bet the 10 people who’d snuggled up in it the night before has been a bit more comfortable than us! Next stop was lunch where once again I enjoyed a ham sandwich, crisps, chocolate bar and drink, lovingly prepared for us each day by our wonderful caterers. This walk had given me the chance to chat again, finding out stories from inspirational women in my team and sharing mine. As my diagnosis had been the furthest in the past than anyone it was nice to feel like I could give a sense of hope to those early in their cancer journey. The bonus to this walk was it was the shortest and also ended with a visit to pub, in fact a rather stylish hotel with breathtaking views across the sea. Never has a cold pint tasted so good and it was just the break we all needed to celebrate being over half way through our epic adventure. We sang loudly on the coach home, possibly due to the alcohol. As we were home early I had the opportunity for a bit more shopping, visiting the local pottery next to the campsite where of course I had to buy a couple of souvenirs. A wonderful curry for dinner and a bottle of wine by the shore finished off a fabulous day.

Wednesday was the day I was looking forward to the most - Sligachan to The Fairy Falls. I’d visited the Fairy Falls 8 years ago with my family and the pressure of expectation weighed upon me as my ‘moment’ finally hit me on the coach  when there with tears streaming. I’d learn not to fight them, best to let them out. This walk did not disappoint at all, though I realised I’d probably only done about a quarter of it last time. Our guide Anna told us stories of her time climbing the Black Cuillin which brought the enormity of it all to life. The views were breathtaking as we saw the Fairy Falls coming into view and with it other people! We really hadn’t seen many people on our travels throughout the week but this was a much more popular tourist park of the island. It’s said that if you dip your face in the crystal clear waters you’ll be granted eternal youth. Not sure I’m looking 10 years younger but it was a lot of fun (and great content!) It was a long walk back but as usual our travels were filled with song, chatter and laughter. For me the Fairy Falls had lived up to my expectations.

The last day we all got to walk the same route to Beinn Edra, the longest walk. Dressed in our matching t-shirts, flower garlands, glitter freckles and temporary tattoos we looked like some crazy hen do. Our last Hokey Cokey was an emotional one and topped off with Rachel’s rap which summed up the highs and lows (but mainly highs) of the week. With a spring in our tired legs we took on the last hills with a sense of determination. Seeing the other teams along the way gave the walk an even more of celebratory feel, giving us a peak into their dynamic. From standing on top of the trig point to having our team topless photo taken the team couldn’t have been stronger than it was that day. We really did ‘reach for the stars’ and there ‘ain’t no mountain high enough’ to stop us from completing this trek. We were joined for the final few miles with the magnificent Giovanna Fletcher, the woman who makes all this possible and is a force of nature. Walking down towards the campsite I could feel the sense of anticipation rising. I wasn’t sure what was waiting for us at the end except for a lot of tears but I wasn’t expecting a kilted drummers and bagpipers as we crossed the finish line to claim our medal. The sun had shone for us all day to make it the most wonderful end to this epic adventure. The final debrief was joyous, remembering  Kris, the awesome women behind Coppafeel and thanking all the organisers, team leaders, caterers, and finally ourselves for taking on the amazing challenge and completing it.

 And on top of all the we raiser OVER HALF A MILLION POUNDS!!

Finally, don’t forget to CHECK YOUR CHESTS!

*even more so when I fell over backwards in Marks & Spencer’s trying to reach for a packet of crisps! Having to be helped up by a member of staff only to realise I’d picked up the wrong flavour crisps and left my pride well and truly on the floor!

5 of the best Father's Day gifts from Chirpy

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

Looking for a different gift this Father’s Day?

We pride ourselves on stocking things that are a little different, and make useful, practical, stylish gifts and Father’s Day gifts are no different.

So here’s 5 of the best gifts we’ve got for Sunday 15th June

1 . A sturdy mug

Which man doesn’t want to start the day with a big up of tea or a large cup of strong coffee? Whether it’s to take to the office or for working from home, a solid colourful mug nis always a must.

We love the bright vibrant colours and the ombre design of these mugs. Why not buy one to start your family set. You could also choose your favourite colour!

Check out the fabulous ombre mug range HERE

2. Yorkshire Dales Walking Guidebook

What could be nicer than heading out for a walk in the country on Father’s Day. There’s so much beautiful scenery on our doorstep waiting to be explored. and this is the perfect book to help you (& him) do so.

We love these walking guidebooks as they offer simple information on distance, difficulty, terrain and even it you’ll find pub at the end!

Pick up this and the North York Moors books HERE

3. HOBO travel candles

Candles are just for girls - we don’t think so!

Whether it’s to relax after a hard day at work, soak in the bath after a long walk, or just to make the room where they keep their trainers smell nice, we’ve got the perfect range for them.

We love these HOBO candles as they are small and portable, and burn perfectly, not tunnelling. Pick pone up HERE

4. Beach Clean Wallet

So a wallet might seem like an obvious present for Father’s Day but this one is a little bit different.

Made from sustainable Portuguese cork and the plastic from the beaches, it’s an eco friendly gift that’s saving the planet.

Holding 3 cards on either side with room for cash in the middle it’s also not too bulky for the modern dad who usually relies just on his tech to pay for things.

Did you know that in Chirpy we even had a cork recycling bin from the manufactures these amazing beach clean products, so why not get dad to drop in with his corks after his Father’s Day celebrations!

Check out the wallet and other sustainable cork products HERE

5. Personalised Jesmonite Letters

Why not make your Father’s Day gift a bit more personal? Spell out his name, initials or a phrase in Jesmonite letters.

We can make the letters in the colour or colours of your choosing and have them ready for you in time for Father's Day on 15th June, just give us week’s notice.

Order your letters HERE

Of course we have your staples in store - some great socks and tasty chocolate swell as a fabulous range of cards. So don’t forget to pop into Chirpy or check out our Father’s Day section online

Make this Father’s Day a Chirpy one!

Welcoming Spring with the door open and a Chirpy smile …

It’s been a long time coming but is that Spring I see sneaking up on us?

The big freeze of January seems like an age ago, who remembers slipping all the way to the shop on the treacherous pavements? Thankfully we had lots of loyal Chirpy customers who braved the weather and shopped with us. We didn’t have a Sale this year – did you miss it? The main reason was that following some work I’ve been doing with the brilliant Catherine from The Resilient Retail Club meant my stock control has been much better so not a lot of excess stock to sell off.

 January was all about RENEWING, my word of the year. During a couple of enforced days of closure due to some essential (and very expensive!) electrical work being completed I took the opportunity to give the shop a big spring (or winter!) clean and a lick of paint here & there. Loving the new pops of teal on the pegboards which definitely show off the products better.

 On a personal note I was over the moon to find out I’d got a place on the Coppafeel! Charity Isle of Skye 100km Trek in June. Fundraising got off to a great start and I was well on the way to reaching my £2500 target thanks to all my generous Chirpy customers.

 February started with a trip to Spring Fair, a better prepared visit than last year so had more time to chat to existing and potential suppliers. As one of the Gift of the Year judges if was a great opportunity to see the products in the flesh and cast my  final votes. Lovely to see quite a few of products we currently stock be in the running, including our Travel Journals & Paper Plants.

 February also meant the return of Chirpy Workshops, welcoming back Mizz Knits with her giant ball of wool & my Jesmonite workshop. 

The highlight of the month had to be being a Dragon at the GCA speed dating event where 72 cards publishers met with a host of retailers, including Chirpy, to pitch their wares. The organisers weren’t joking when they said to bring an empty suitcase with us to bring back all the freebies. With over 200 free cards and lots of other goodies too including a beautifully hand painted picture of Chirpy, I was blown away by the generosity and effort from the publishers. I made sure to contact every publisher to thank them and give them feedback as to whether their products were right for Chirpy – to me that’s the least I could do to support such a brilliant sector. Cards are the bread and butter of Chirpy, they actually pay our rent, so we take them very seriously! The event proved very successful for Chirpy having already placed orders with 4 new suppliers and more to come – watch this space!

March has felt quite different this year to last. With Mother’s Day being at the end of the month (unlike last year where it followed very close after Valentine’s Day) there hasn’t been that intense rush to get cards. If I’m being honest it’s been a really disappointing month and I’ve had to really hold me nerve when I’ve budgeted based on last year’s record breaking March. All I can do is keep making sure I got gorgeous stock and offering excellent customer service and hope that the new season and the open door brings customers back to Chirpy.

That’s not to say that March hasn’t been a busy month in other ways. Our Jesmonite taster workshop, in aid of Coppafeel!, was a huge success and raised over £250. Thinking of doing another one – shall we? We also ran a new Calligraphy workshop, another sold out Fused Glass workshop and one of my personal favourites, a Lampshade Workshop. Pop ups returned too, with a Sustainable Fashion pop up with Hearing Aid Babe and Katie & May returning to our high street with the first of her monthly pop ups.

We love surprising our customers and on International Women’s Day over 40 customers were treated to a free bunch of flowers – definitely think this will be an annual giveaway

Fundraising (& training) for Coppafeel! Continues and this month we hit our £2500 target so of course we’ve increased it to £4000.  My days off are spent getting practice walks in as only 11 weeks until the big trek.

We ended the month on a high finding out we were a finalist for the Muddy Stilettos Awards, for Best Lifestyle Store in Yorkshire! We’ve got some tough competition so no apologies for asking all our wonderful Chirpy customers to vote for us. You’ve got until 15th April to cast your vote – we really can’t do this without you! Please vote HERE!

So what’s coming up next at Chirpy?

We’ve got a jam packed programme of workshops, an Easter Egg colouring competition, a pop up with Westmorland Sheepskins, an art exhibition with Tessa Houghton and lots of gorgeous new Spring products arriving. Think that’ll keep us busy, so why not pop in and say Hi!

5 of the best creative workshops coming up at Chirpy this Spring

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

What’s different about Chirpy?

We’re not just a fabulous gift shop fulfilling all your gifting needs for all occasions but we’ve also got a wonderful workshop space dedicated to bring our customers great creative workshops. All perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, the workshops offer a chance to enjoy a couple of hours of creative “you time” away from the huddle & bustle of everyday life. Come on your own or bring some friends, we’re a friendly lot!

Here’s 5 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Spring

1 . Fused Glass Flower & Fruit Wreath

Thursday 24th April 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made b applying  frit (crushed glass) and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

2. Jesmonite coaster workshop

Thursday May 1st 7-9pm Book here

Jesmonite seems to be everywhere unsurprisingly as bits such a fun material to work with. In this workshop you’ll create 2 unique hexagonal trays with a terrazzo design, perfect to using as coasters or trinket trays. As Jesmonite dries quickly you’ll take away your creations on the night

3. Bluebell Forest painting workshop

Thursday 8th May 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

Our aim is to unleash your own painting style and encourage you where needed. It’s your masterpiece and at the end your painting will be unique to you.

4. Fused Glass Waterscape

Thursday 15th May 7-8:30pm- book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass?  Well here is your opportunity from Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker.

In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit (crushed glass) stringers (glass rods) and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass waterscape picture, perfect as a treat for yourself or a gift for a loved one. No cutting or grinding required!

On completion your item will be taken away and fused plus a wooden frame added.  It will then be returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

5. Pottery Hand building workshop

This workshop is running twice in Spring

Thursday 22nd May 7-9pm Book here

Thursday 25th June 7-9pm Book here

Fancy trying your hand at a bit of pottery? In this workshop you’ll get acquainted with the art of pottery, learn the three methods of handbuilding, design and then create your very own custom pieces. Your pieces will be glazed and fired (white) and ready to pick up at a later date.

Sweeping the autumn leaves over the summer...

July’s usually a quiet month as everyone gets ready for the schools to end and holidays to begin, but thanks to our Chirpy customers we had a busy one.

We were also honoured to be a finalist at the RETA awards, the Oscar’s of the card industry. Even though we didn’t take away the prize it was a wonderful event to be part of such an amazing group of other independent retailers.

In the quieter moments I also  spent a bit more time working a little bit on the business rather than just in it, attending a great branding event workshop and behind the scenes I was crunching numbers thanks the The Resilient Retail Club & looking at our Christmas planning.

I also attended Harrogate Home & Gift Tradeshow, which I’m really lucky to have only a bus ride away (& perfect for a trip to the Turkish Baths afterwards)

Our workshops finished for the summer, ending with a a sell-out  Jesmonite workshop and hosting a birthday party for a customer’s daughter.

It seems like a long time ago, but the memories of 2 epic walks are still alive – what a month taking on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks and then Snowden. Definitely two of my highs of the year, quite literally.

And so to August when the summer finally arrived and everyone went away (except me!). Team Chirpy enjoyed a much needed team get together, a rare chance for use all to get together and catch up. Chirpy just ticks along in August but in home life things were much more exciting. With A level results and an 18th birthday to celebrate it proved to be an exciting month, if you include trips to Ikea to get the obligatory university essentials!

This year I actually got to enjoy the Chapel Allerton Festival, which we were happy to support by being a collection point for wristbands and offering customers wearing them discount in the shop. It was a great and busy event and something Chapel Allerton should be really proud of putting on each year.

I love September, when the light changes and you can feel the new season around the corner. Not so much a fan this year, as it’s quickly turned cold and rainy and the shop’s been a bit too quiet! But there has been good moments.

Our workshop programme has got off to a great start, with Colourful Weaving, Arm knitting,  Painting and Lampshade Making. We’ve launched all our autumn & festive workshops for the rest of the year and look forward to a welcoming lots of crafty customer upstairs. We also hosted 2 private Jesmonite workshops  for Leeds Society of Architects and a team building for Connective3 which saw amazing results. Love running these so always happy when people get in touch to ask about them.

Our favourite trade show, Top Drawer, did not disappoint this year and we can’t wait for you to see what we’ve ordered. PREORDERS are available now to help you spread the cost of gifting over the festive period and to guarantee that you get the products you’ll love.

September is the perfect time to get in touch with people during ‘Thinking of You’ week – this year we ran a competition every day and loved sending cards on behalf of our customers. Cards are so important to Chirpy, they literally pay our rent, and we love that our Chirpy customers appreciate the great ranges we stock. Watch this space for our annual Card Subscription competition which launched in October.

Finally September was a big month in our household too as my daughter went off to university, just a mere 350 miles away! Think we’re all adjusting but can’t wait to go and visit in October.

So as we enter the ‘golden quarter’ we’ve just launched a couple of exciting events. This half term we’ll be running some mini Jesmonite workshops, perfect for kids, Tickets are also on sale for this year’s CHIRPYVERSARY party on 8th November – come and join us to celebrate my 8th anniversary in Chirpy.

Here’s to a busy and successful autumn!

Jo x

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The highs and heights of July ...

The theme of this month has been about putting one foot in front of the other, quite literally. It’s taken me to heights & distances I never expected, have ticked 2 amazing walks off my bucket list (that I’m not sure I even realised were on it!) The Yorkshire 3 Peaks was epic - I needed to know I had 24 miles in 12 hours in my kegs in preparation for my marathon Coppafeel trek in September & the good news is I do!

So while on holiday in Wales this week it seemed obvious to climb Snowdon. What a fabulous day - perhaps a little bit too warm but a wonderful 4 hours with the best views I’ve ever seen. Just managed to avoid a big cloud when we reached the top. I can categorically say I’m super proud of myself (& Sally & Iain) for getting those walls done & dusted. Ben Nevis next?!!?! 

We started July being a finalist at The RETAs, the Oscar’s of the card industry. Even though we didn’t take away the prize it was a wonderful event & to be part of such an amazing group of other independent retailers is an honour. We pride ourselves on the wonderful cards we stock and our customers  are frequently complimenting us on the range we gave so we’re winners in their eyes. 

Working a little bit on the business rather than just in it, this month I attended a great Branding event workshop with Buttercrumble hosted by neighbouring local independent shop  the Little Book shop. Behind the scenes I’ve also been crunching numbers thanks the The Resilient Retail Club & looking at our Christmas planning. Christmas in July definitely seems to be a thing! But in all seriousness, having also attended Harrogate Home & Gift Tradeshow this month it’s never to early to start looking forward to make sure we have everything right for the busiest time of year. 

Our July Jesmonite workshop was a sell out & we were delighted to be able to help a customer out & host her daughter’s birthday workshop. Thinks have been busy on the corporate workshop front too with 2 Jesmonite workshops in the diary for the autumn. I love doing private workshops so if you’re looking for a team event, meeting or get together then just get in touch for a chat

So as July has come to an end what does August have in store?

I’m planning on keeping my feet on terra firma -  no big walks planned. It’s usually a quieter time in the shop so a great time to sort, renew, take stock. The Chirpy team are getting together next week to celebrate the year we’ve had - I couldn’t do it without them, they’ve been holding the fort while I’ve been clocking up the miles! 

And finally as a little treat for all our Chirpy customers in August to help you do your gift shopping wherever you may be, by a pool, up a mountain, on a houseboat or in a tent, here’s some discount codes for you …

AUGUST10 to get 10% OFF when you spend £25 or more

AUGUST15 to get 15% OFF when you spend £50 or more

AUGUST20 to get 20% OFF when you spend £80 or more

Happy Summer!

Jo x

It was a long time coming but we finally saw some sun ...

So here we are, half way through the year, 6 months until Christmas (there I’ve mentioned it!) and it’s t-shirt weather at last! So we’re looking back at the last 3 months in Chirpy …

April wasn’t the best month for sales but there was lots going on to keep us Chirpy! It was time to stocktake (literally), come out of hibernation and kick off Spring, even if the weather didn’t get that memo.

It’s was great to be part of #myshoplife24, celebrating with independent businesses around the country through social media. I’ve been involved in this for the last 7 years and it really feels like being part of an indie family, supporting each other especially when times are tough. Loved seeing all the posts, reels and stories and being inspired by what other indie shops are doing. Lucia also joined us for her work experience and it’s always lovely to have a fresh pair of eyes in the shop, especially young ones! You may have also heard me on Radio 2 this month chatting about shopping trollies! You’ll often see me around Chapel Allerton, mine filled with shopping form the local shops or parcels on the way to the post office.

In May we were delighted to find out we were a finalist for a RETA Award - the Oscars for Card Retailers. Watch this space on 4th July - it’s not just the election which will be decided! As we’re not a bank we decided to stay open for the Bank Holidays and glad we did. Thanks to everyone who shopped with us and made it worth our while being open. May was a busy month with workshops, with over 40 people joining us to paint, knit and get crafty with Jesmonite and Fused Glass (not all at once!) On the look out to expand our stationery range, this month I visited the Stationery Show in London, as part of National Stationery Week, which saw me make my own fountain pen, get lots of great samples and have some decisions to make on what products we’ll be bringing to Chirpy later in the year.

June, another month and another trade show. Visiting PG Live is now one of my favourite days of the year, as cards play such an important part of Chirpy. We had a Sunshine Ticket to spend for our RETA nomination, which we were delighted to spend with Lucky Ink, a new supplier to Chirpy and we’re sure you’ll love her gorgeous modern colourful cards as much as we do. Another month, another radio appearance, this time on Radio 4 chatting about the benefits of shopping local. We really rely on our loyal local customers so it’s a subject very close to my heart.

Summer really did arrive with our Summer Energy Boost workshop with Sarah Brown, where we all took away lots of great tips on how to feel healthier and more energised for the year ahead - still no coffee for me!

After the stresses of A levels in our house, I finally got to relax(!) on a little on a trip to Paris with my daughter. I really noticed the increase in more small independent shops which I’ve never really noticed in France before - like the UK there’s a lot of lovely indie makers which is great to see.

So as we head into the summer months traditionally the quietest season for us, we’re starting to plan ahead for Christmas (there I mentioned it again!). As schools finish and people head off on holidays, please don’t forget your independent shops and local hight streets when you’re looking for gifts for summer birthdays, weddings and teacher presents. Why not spend that class collection money in Chirpy to thank us for the support we’ve given your school Summer Fairs?

Here’s to a summer of sun, washing on the line and eating al fresco.

Until the autumn…

Jo & the Chirpy team x

Leaving the shop door open with a Spring in my step ...

…looking back at the last 3 months

 Can’t quite work out whether the last 3 months have dragged on or flown by, can you? Easter seems to have come round so quickly and we’re definitely heading into Spring (well, most days!)

As ever, it’s been an eventful start to the year.  Even when it’s quiet in the shop there’s always things to do and plan so never really a dull moment, and when there is, there’s always a cup of tea and a local piece of cake to eat!

Our customers enjoyed our January Sale at the beginning of the year (in January in fact!) with lots of great bargains to be had. I decided not to go to my favourite tradeshow this January, heading for a weekend up north and a sea dip, though of course had FOMO watching everyone’s Instagram stories while they were there. Despite not going, it didn’t mean that we didn’t start to get lots of new stock for the new season. This year we are looking to collaborate with other small businesses too and in January we had our first meeting with local biscuit maker The Biskery to start hatching some plans for the rest of the year.

February saw a whistle stop visit to Spring Fair at the NEC (not helped by not charging the car the night before and having to get back to Leeds for 5pm) so perhaps need to plan better next time! We also held our first workshops of the year, including a lovely private birthday Jesmonite workshop. Our Chirpy customers showed a lot of love this February with a record breaking number of Valentine cards being sold. And I managed to grab a few days off with as little trip to London leaving Chirpy in the hands of my great team Jenna & Lizzie as well as new team member Hannah.

March started with a Double Points weekend in store to thank all our loyal customers for their support. The card revolution continued with Mother’s Day with another record breaking year of card sales (& customers on the Saturday before). We love the fact that hundreds of mums woke up on 10th March with a gorgeous card from Chirpy, including myself!

This month we were very excited to launch our 2nd collaboration of the year, this time with Sarah Thornton Art. Sarah has designed a bespoke Chirpy bird which we have had printed onto cards, tea towels and prints. As part of this year’s charity fund raiser 20% of the sales of each product goes to Coppafeel. They are proving popular and we’re well on the way to achieving our target (though would love to smash it!). The workshops this month have all been sold out and we launched lots more too – people really seem to be enjoying our Chirp workshops at the moment. Have you tried one?

So Easter has come early this year and Easter weekend falls in March. Traditionally Easter isn’t the busiest time for us, though our chocolate sales are usually quite good! We’re ending the month with another Double Points weekend, and Chapel Allerton is hosting its first Food market on Saturday as well as a Easter hunt for the kids, so here’s hoping that it might be busy after all. There’s a little Easter treat online too.

So what’s in store for the next 3 months? More new stock, more workshops, including some great new ones, a new stationery trade show to visit and the return of Magic Tenner in May. All whilst trying to navigate A level exams and then a trip to Paris to celebrate the end of 2 years of very hard work for my girl. 

Wishing you a very Happy Easter & don’t forget to turn your clocks back on Saturday night!

Jo x