While working at the Old Fire Station as Marketing Manager, I realised there was a gap for a one-stop website that listed all of the independents. In other cities, there’s a “quarter” or “lanes” and a clear community that supports each other. But in Oxford it’s all spread out and I think it’s even more important that Independent Oxford tries to facilitate sharing and networking between indie businesses. If indies are to succeed, why not do it together? When I met Rosie, who had similar ideas, we crazily said, why not, let’s give it a go!

Favourite Shop?
It’s a tough one and it changes so regularly but at the moment I love any form of cake from Modern Baker. I had a coconut, quinoa and banana loaf recently and it blew my mind!

What are you up to when you’re not Independent Oxford-ing?
By day I’m the Event Manager at Oxford Uni Exam Schools, by night and weekend, you’ll find me baking, buying even more second hand furniture that I really don’t need but can’t resist. I spend a lot of time drinking a lot of tea and taking photos of and playing with our kitten, Fleur. [/vc_column]

I started my business, Kinship of Oxford, in 2013 with the aim to support great UK designers and small businesses, showcasing them in a beautifully curated online store. Independent Oxford, to me, is an extension of this. I really am passionate about Independent Oxford means that by creating a slick and stylish online directory and organising events in Oxford, we can support other local businesses and designers by giving them a platform to reach a wider audience through, and create a network with other businesses, ultimately helping to make Oxford a destination for indie shopping.

Favourite Shop?
Well, besides my own, I am a little bit obsessed with Gilt & Grain at the moment! I love that they have ever changing stock and it’s like an Aladdin’s cave of quirky and gorgeous furniture and home decs. You never know what you might find.

What are you up to when you’re not Independent Oxford-ing?
I absolutely love my business and so spend most of my time on it; planning events, processing orders, thinking up new product ideas, catching up with suppliers and range planning. I am also an avid photographer and love styling shoots and planning product photography for the website and social media. I also put together trend reports, blog posts and market analysis for clients. When I’m not busy with all things indie retailing, I love running, cycling along the tow path in Oxford, reading, playing my new ukulele, crocheting, cooking and cuddling up with our cats Tom and Allen.