News

R&P - In conversation with founder of Radish & Pear, Anna Llewellyn-Jones

News

R&P - In conversation with founder of Radish & Pear, Anna Llewellyn-Jones

by Anna Llewellyn-Jones on Nov 07, 2024
  The story, behind Radish & Pear, her design inspirations, the brand's creative journey, and exciting plans for the future. A must-read...   What inspired you to start Radish & Pear, and how did you come up with the name? Is there a story behind it? Radish & Pear was a lockdown baby. Hehe. I was cooped up in my house, just like everyone else at that time, and I decided to create things to lift my own morale in the way I have since I was a child - by creating.  I painted, sketched, and then I started to sew... and this is where it all began. I ordered Liberty London fabric and began to sew face masks. I initially sold them on my personal instagram, and when friends of friends began getting in touch for masks, I decided to make a separate page.  At the time, our family dog Radish, a gorgeous jack Russell terrier, was in lockdown with us! He was my absolute world and, along with me being super sentimental about everything (which my followers know from the meanings I attach to each piece I create) I, naturally, wanted to name my brand after him. I always wanted it to be Radish and 'something' and the first thing that came to my head was and ‘Pear’ was the first thing that came to mind—it just fit! It’s funny: one of the most common comments I hear at markets is about how much people love the name, its playful and unexpected pairing. Those reactions always mean so much to me. Can you walk us through your design process? Where do you find inspiration, and how do your ideas evolve into finished pieces? Since I don’t come from a traditional design background, my creative process is wonderfully old-school and ‘free-flowing.’ I sketch everything by hand, letting my ideas take shape on paper without following the conventional ‘do’s and don’ts’ of jewellery design. I don’t believe art should be bound by rules, and I think this freedom is what makes my designs so unique. I find inspiration in anything that moves me. The latest Daydreamer Collection, a favourite with our R&P community, was inspired by my love for all things mystical: clouds, rainbows, hearts (symbolising love), and, of course, pears! Clouds have been a staple design in Radish & Pear since it began in 2020! Does Radish & Pear follow current jewellery trends, or do you take a different approach to ensure each piece stays unique and true to your brand's vision? I'm definitely aware of trends in the jewellery industry, but I don’t like to focus on them too heavily. I believe it’s important to stay true to what makes Radish & Pear unique—designs that are a little different, a little unexpected. If we simply followed trends, we wouldn’t be staying true to our roots, and we’d lose what sets us apart. Radish & Pear is about embracing individuality, and it’s this commitment to creating something different that makes the brand stand out Where do you see Radish & Pear heading in the future? Are there any exciting goals or plans you’d like to share? I absolutely see Radish & Pear in multiple stores across the UK—that’s the next big step, goal, and dream for the brand. Honestly, if I’m being completely honest, I have a million dreams for Radish & Pear, but I want to take things one step at a time. My focus is on making sure we grow at a healthy pace, without rushing. It’s about building the foundation right so we can continue to thrive in the long run. I hope to keep on making jewellery that makes people feel amazing for a long time to come.  Any words of encouragement for those wanting to embark on their own business journey? Don’t be afraid of failure—it’s going to happen more times than you can count, and I hate to break it to you, but that’s okay. Failure doesn’t mean anything, if that makes sense. It doesn’t mean you should give up or that you're a terrible business owner. It just means you're human, and you’re learning and growing. This industry is tough, and you need that mindset to keep going, to pick yourself up and start again. It’s a cliché, but it’s true: I’ve learned so much from my mistakes, both in business and in my personal life. It’s all part of the journey, and it’s what shapes you in the end.