Natural Moment To Pause
There’s a definite change in the air. The days are still warm enough to remind us of summer, but the trees are beginning to turn, the evenings are getting shorter and autumn is quietly making an appearance.
September has always felt a little like a reset to me. Not quite the start of a new year, but a natural moment to pause, look around and think about what comes next.
After the long, bright days of summer, I find myself drawn back to slower, more thoughtful creativity. It’s the perfect time to get back into the studio, look at things with fresh eyes and start thinking about the celebrations and occasions that lie ahead.
A little inspiration from nature
I recently stopped to take in the trees around Pells Pool in Lewes. The first hints of autumn were showing in the leaves, reflected in the water. Nothing dramatic — just those subtle changes that tell you a new season is on its way.
Nature has always been a big source of inspiration for my designs. Leaves, flowers, branches and simple organic shapes regularly find their way into my wooden cards and keepsakes.
I particularly love working with designs that don't feel tied to just one season. Something inspired by nature can be just as beautiful in spring as it is surrounded by autumn colours.
Back to the studio
September is also a good opportunity for a bit of a reset in the studio.
It’s a chance to revisit designs, try new ideas and think about how I can make my products even more personal and meaningful. Everything at Hickory Dickory Designs is made to order, so I don't need to produce huge quantities and hope they'll find a home.
Instead, each piece can be made for the person it's intended for.
A name, an age, a date or a special message can turn a simple wooden design into something much more personal — something that can be displayed and kept rather than simply ending up in a drawer.
Looking towards autumn and beyond
With Christmas gradually appearing on the horizon and autumn birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and new beginnings coming up, September is when I start thinking about all those little moments that deserve to be marked.
I'm also enjoying the change of season creatively. There is something about autumn that makes me want to experiment with natural textures, dried flowers, leaves and earthy, understated designs.
Some of the dried flowers I've been using have been collected after they've gone to seed, rather than picked at their prime. I love the character they have at this stage — slightly faded, delicate and completely natural. They seem to fit perfectly with the idea behind Hickory Dickory Designs: things don't have to be perfect or disposable to be beautiful.
So here's to a September reset.
A little less rushing, a little more noticing, and plenty of time for making new things.
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