Constructing a Business in Absence of Social Media Platforms
October 16, 2019 | Small Business
Geraldine Hargreaves: Embracing the Slow Pace of Life
Geraldine Hargreaves, a felt maker based in Clevedon, Somerset, has opted out of the social media trend and thrives in the quieter, slower-paced world. Her business is built primarily through word-of-mouth, allowing her to concentrate on her passion while maintaining a balance with family life.
In a candid conversation, Hargreaves shared her thoughts on her decision to bypass social media, her craft, and the enchanting town of Clevedon.
Hargreaves, who grew up in a village near Clevedon, used to work in social care before becoming a mother. Upon reuniting with her artistic passion, she found solace in creating beautiful felt items, such as bunting, cards, and children's toys. Her work has since evolved to reflect her clients' requests, making it a genuinely evolving craft.
On Social Media
Hargreaves is not present on any social media platforms but communicates through two WhatsApp groups instead. She pursued this path intentionally, feeling assured that she could maintain contact with the individuals she wanted to stay in touch with while avoiding the vast, public platform that is social media.
Marketing without Social Media
Her business growth is slow but steady, much like her life philosophy. Geraldine's merchandise sells mainly through word-of-mouth recommendations and customer requests. This non-traditional marketing strategy allows her to maintain a manageable workload, as she handcrafts each item herself and sells her creations at a price reflective of her time investment.
Running a Felt Maker Business
Although she has pondered the possibility of creating an Instagram profile, Hargreaves has yet to take the plunge. She feels that she needs a clear purpose and fearlessly embraces the unknown. "I think what I do would probably really suit something like Instagram, but it's just not the right time for me," she explains.
Discovering Clevedon
Hargreaves' love for Clevedon is heartfelt, describing it as offering the best of both worlds: a peaceful, quiet atmosphere with the convenience of being close to the sea. Clevedon has a charming pebble beach and stunning local spots that are less touristy than other seaside destinations.
Geraldine Hargreaves' Slow Living Tip
For those seeking to slow down their pace of life, Hargreaves recommends indulging in a tranquil yoga nidra exercise called rotation of consciousness to unwind and enjoy the stillness within. This simple practice involves lying on the floor and focusing on various parts of the body as guided by an instructor.
Enrichment Data
- Based on currently available search results, there is no specific, publicly available information detailing Geraldine Hargreaves' intentions or reasons for choosing not to engage with social media for her business.
- In conversation with Fiona Barrows and Geraldine Hargreaves, the article's author, Geraldine mentioned that she is 40 years old. This information may shed some light on her perspective on social media, having not grown up with it. However, this connection should not be oversimplified without further evidence.
Categories:* Small Business* Lifestyle & Wellness* Crafts* People Profiles
Small-business owner Geraldine Hargreaves, who operates a felt-making enterprise in Clevedon, chooses to grow her small business through word-of-mouth rather than relying on social media platforms like many other contemporary businesses do for finance and marketing. This strategy allows her to delight in a slow-paced life that reflects her business philosophy.
Clevedon, a town where Hargreaves resides and practices her slow-living philosophy, is a tranquil yet convenient location with a picturesque pebble beach that adds to her life's harmony. Despite its charm, it remains a less touristy destination compared to other seaside towns, making it an ideal setting for her small business and lifestyle.
