Harriet Kelsall
Harriet runs the UKs leading bespoke jewellery design company. They make beautiful pieces to match the wearer’s style, personality and budget and are especially busy with engagement, wedding and eternity rings.
In 1998 Harriet started the business on her kitchen table and now employs 32 staff in 2 locations - Hertfordshire and Cambridge and they work internationally as well via Skype.
Harriet and her business have won numerous awards including the 2011 UK Jewellery awards, Boutique Jeweller of the Year’ at the National Jewellery Award and the coveted Everywoman Retail ‘Woman of the year’ award.
Harriet is passionate about ethics and was one of the first jewellers chosen to be allowed to sell Fairtrade gold. She also talks and writes about business and entrepreneurship in various magazines as well as juggling her work with 2 young children.
“Starting a creative business is a bit like having a baby - you have no idea what you don’t know and are about to learn! It is an amazing journey which can be hugely rewarding and a complete nightmare - often simultaneously.
I think it is great if those of us who have ‘been there’ can help start-ups have a little more ammunition and knowledge behind them and to be a ‘sounding board’ encouraging people to follow their dreams without tripping over them.”