Jess here: today I’m so happy to introduce you to the fabulous Meredith Ireland – my new right-hand gal! Grace has had to move on, but happily, Meredith has come on board to take up the mantle of helping me to keep Create & Thrive moving forward into 2016 and beyond.
I’ll let her tell you more about herself, but for now, just let me say: welcome to the team, Meredith!
~ Jess x
I was lucky to grow up in a creative family, and I found my true creative passion when I was 11 years old.
My mother took me along to an introduction to textiles course and I fell in love with the ancient, colourful craft with endless possibilities. I went on to complete a diploma of Fine Art and Design at The University of Tasmania majoring in Textiles when I was just 16 years old (before I finished year 12)!
It has certainly been a naturally evolving path for me to reach where I am today – and I think it will continue to be so.
I have had to make big decisions in order to follow my creative path… but they have always felt like the best decisions.
Opening my brick & mortar store – Old Franklin Shop – in July this year was a huge milestone.
Not only was I supporting myself as a creative but I am now supporting others. What started as a huge responsibility is now an absolute pleasure.
Promoting, supporting and marketing other makers work is a wonderful job! I still don’t know where this will take me as my ideas are constantly evolving. I think this liquid element is something that attracts me to the creative lifestyle.
I have had many ups and downs with motivation – especially when I have the most to do: but my mind never loses inspiration.
Meditation and writing helps me to calm my constant ideas and thoughts on a daily basis and also stops me from chewing my partner’s ear off all day!
My work is my life now which I really enjoy. I am not very good at doing nothing.
I am constantly thinking of ideas for growth and development personally, creatively and financially.
A day off for me means taking my laptop outdoors or spending an afternoon with family. All is melded into one busy but satisfying schedule that is constantly changing. I am lucky enough to have people around me that support this and help me through hard times but also help me celebrate successes.
I’m so excited to have joined the team at Create & Thrive, which has been a long-term source of confidence building and resources for me since the day I registered as a business.
~ Meredith
Find out more about Meredith
Shop/Website
Instagram: Old Franklin | Old Franklin Store
