For most of us, 2020 started of as a pretty normal and standard year. Setting either new years resolutions or envisioning how we will be doing life or things differently, to become more of a person we would like to be, or even in some ways change to become better or closer to dreams we have in our hearts. I for one, never envisioned 2020 to be a year of learning or adapting to new ways of doing life. Things we considered as a given, was taken away overnight, and we either had to learn to swim upstream quickly, or sink in an overwhelmingly fear and anxiety driven society. Yes, there has been in the midst of all going on, and managing emotions been such sweet moments of actually living a slower paced life, a life where families were forced to spend more time together, and also to reflect on what is really important in life. However, the side about this time that I have seen creeping in is one of isolation, selfishness and also one of not having regard for other people. I am not saying that this is true for everyone, there has been and still are people out there who care for others, who has been giving time and resources generously, where they would not normally been doing that if it was not for the massive need around us. I am referring to simple moments, of going to the shop and 'hiding' behind your mask. You can still wear a mask, social distance and say hello to the person passing you at the same time. Out of all this chaos, I have really sensed a need to create a platform where people in our Midlands, and later potentially in this country can be introduced. By introduction I mean the following. Do we actually know what the name of the lady ringing up our groceries at Spar is? Do we know if she is afraid or has certain specific needs? Maybe your answer is yes, but how many of us really do know? I have been setting up interviews with various people in our community just to ask a few questions and to give some businesses also a bit of exposure in these economically difficult times. Please note, that social distancing and regulations have been followed during these interviews, and I totally respect the regulations put in place. My aim in this is to help create a culture of honoring people, being interested in the needs and feelings of those around us and just to know who our neighbors are. That said, let me do my first introduction. Meet Janette Nicholson. I met Janette after I saw an advert that she placed on Howick Buzz during lockdown, where she had a special running on hanging lacey bowl planters. Janette has a business on the Birnamwood road, called Birdsong. She makes the most beautiful bird feeders, ceramics and pottery. I popped in to collect and I was so amazed that I didn't even know about her business and the beautiful things she makes, that this surely had to be my first interview. I asked Janette a few questions just to find out a bit more about her and the business. How and when was Birdsong established? Janette bought the business from a friend of hers starting with children's worskshops, ceramics and painting classes from as early as 1999, before they went to Johannesburg for a few years. Soon she realised that she needed to create her own range of products. Thus in 2009, Birdsong was established after they moved back to Howick from Johannesburg. What has been the biggest challenge during lockdown? Janette has actually been enjoying lockdown, and just having a slower paced life. Financially she has been forced not not spend, so in her 'little world' it has been good. 'Life in general has been more peaceful and calmer during lockdown.' What has been your biggest fear in this time? The biggest concern that she's been having, is to know if there is going to be a market for her products once life and business turns back to a more normal. Will her small business be able to make it? She is also really concerned about her staff, to be able to still provide for them during these times, to still be able to generate a good enough cash flow to keep them on board. She has however been able to still pay her staff during lockdown. What positive things did you experience during lockdown? 'Having the chance to reflect and remember what it is that one enjoys doing and not be on the run always. I have enjoyed being forced to think outside the box, have a different approach and find creative ways to sell my products.' What do you place your hope in? 'I place my hope in innovation.' Janette has loved seeing how innovative people have become in this time, and been able to keep a cash flow going. Do you have any advice you want to give to business owners? 'Keep exploring and sometimes you need to reinvent yourself. Approach things from a different angle. Explore more on digital marketing.' I would just like to take the opportunity to thank Janette for allowing me to take these pictures, do the interview and getting to know Birdsong more. Janette will be having an open day during the first weekend in August to the public, where her products will be displayed and available to purchase. All regulations will be followed during this open weekend. Do yourself a favor and pop in for some fresh air on this beautiful farm.
Herewith a link to her website and Facebook page: http://www.birdsongceramics.co.za/ https://web.facebook.com/birdsongkzn Janette, I just speak God's blessing over you, your family and your business during this time. May hope be more than ever, and you be rooted in His love. Blessings, Michelle
2 Comments
Vanessa Lee
7/21/2020 17:15:48
What an awesome initiative. Well done Michelle.
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about me
I'm a passionate photographer based in the KZN Midlands - enjoying life to the full and spending time with my awesome family and friends... photo credit: www.peartree.co.za
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