What a year it’s been… As we prepare to wave goodbye to 2024 and welcome a fresh start in 2025, we thought it only fitting to hand over the final blog of the year to Jo. As many of our supporters know, Jo lost her husband earlier in 2024 and, in her words, has had to dig deep to keep going. But our wonderful customers and supporters, along with her friends and loved ones, of course, kept her motivated to carry on. That’s why we thought it would be fitting to ask Jo to help us look back at a year filled with twists, turns and a lot of elegant clothing… Over to you, Jo.
It’s fair to say that 2024 has been a rollercoaster, a rollercoaster with the lowest lows that I couldn't have imagined at the start of the year. Losing my husband was so unexpected and it’s still something that catches me out. In addition, like so many small businesses, we’ve faced our share of challenges. Costs are higher than ever, and people seem to have less money to spoil themselves. Yet through it all, your support has been a constant source of joy and motivation. Whether you’ve shopped with us, sent us kind messages or joined me live on Facebook for one of our shopping evenings, you’ve helped make this year possible for me.
Waving goodbye to the trade stand
This year also marked the end of an era for Etton Taylor, as I waved goodbye to our trade stand and boutique at The Deer Park. It was an emotional moment to close the doors for the final time, but I’m so grateful for the time spent with so many of you there. From helping you discover standout outfits to sharing the stories behind each piece, the boutique and trade stand were more than just shopping spaces: they were places for women to rediscover their confidence and style… and share a lot of laughter.
I hope the pieces you found there have become firm favorites in your wardrobe. If that trade stand’s walls could talk, I think they’d have plenty of tales to tell of your visits and our chats!
Highlights of 2024
While it’s been a year of change, there are moments to celebrate. In 2024, we launched very special pieces that perfectly capture the spirit of Etton Taylor including our Highclere coat and feather fur wraps. These garments have been designed not just for their practicality, but also for their elegance and enduring style.
Another standout moment was exhibiting at The Game Fair, always a highlight of our year. Being part of such a fabulous event celebrating the countryside and meeting so many of you in person is something we look forward to every summer. We also had the chance to take the trade stand to Cheltenham races and share our collection at local events, continuing to connect with our community in the most delightful settings.
And who could forget my Facebook Live shopping events? They remain one of my favorite ways to bring Etton Taylor directly to you. From the comfort of your sofa (and hopefully with a glass of fizz in hand), you’ve joined me to discover new styles, share a laugh, and snap up some fabulous finds. Thank you.
Looking ahead to 2025
As I start to plan 2025, I’m filled with gentle anticipation for what’s to come. New year, fresh start as they say, and we’re already planning new season collections that we hope you will love as much as I do.
Before we sign off for the holidays, I’d like to add one small request: if you’re lucky enough to find Etton Taylor under the tree or unwrap one of our pieces on Christmas morning, please do tag us in your photos on social media. Seeing how you style your goodies is one of the highlights of my busy days at the helm of Etton Taylor.
Thank you once again for being part of this journey with us. Your support means the world to me and the entire team. Wishing you and your loved ones a very Happy Christmas and a restful and contented start to the New Year.
Warm wishes to you all,
Jo
