Landmark Issue 19 2021 SINGLE PAGES

54 LANDMARK RAU ALUMNI As a small enterprise focussing on embroidery and branding for the equestrian industry and local businesses, during the lockdown I expected my work to completely dry up. All the equestrian events were cancelled, businesses had to close their doors and were under financial strain - so investing in branded kit would not be the top of anyone’s agenda. Whilst trying to remain positive, I printed a sweatshirt with ‘Socially Distant’ on it in colourful lettering, wore it on an Instagram video - and without realising it I had opened up an opportunity for me to offer something completely different to my usual branded products. Everyone wanted a Socially Distant sweatshirt! I found that I really enjoyed creating and designing the slogans, so I set up 'Bear Hug Goods' with the aim to spread some positivity and bring a smile to people’s faces. I now have a small collection of slogan tops that are all designed to make the wearer not only look good but feel good - and best of all DO good, as 10 % from each sale is donated to the mental health charity, Mind. The 'Don’t Quit' range is particularly popular with riders, whilst the 'Woman Up' and 'Socially Distant' sweatshirts have proved to be great working from home options. The sweatshirts, hoodies and t-shirts are organic, sustainable, ethically manufactured and decorated by me in my workshop on the farm. I have seen a definite move towards supporting small businesses, as well as increased demand for sustainable fashion, so hopefully, Bear Hug will continue to grow. I have recently invested in my own clothing labels and branded packaging, so now I feel like a real brand! As a 40-year-old farmer’s wife, who has never been particularly ‘trendy’, I am still slightly taken aback that strangers actually want to buy things I have designed but I am sticking with it, as I am passionate about building a community around my brand, and raising as much money for Mind as possible (all whilst continuing to run Stitched Equestrian and constantly having hay in my socks….). Victoria Jenner “Covid-19 -my accidental business pivot that has givenme a new direction, a newbrand and the ability to raisemoney for charity.” ALUMNI IN THE PANDEMIC International Equine and Agricultural Business Management, 2002. bearhuggoods.com @bear_hug_goods stitchedequestrian.co.uk @stitchedequestrian