Creating bespoke jewellery; Evoking beautiful emotion.

It always amazes me the number of incredible businesses and industry sectors that our Athena members come from, so I decided to 'spotlight' a different one each month. It's always better to hear things from the "horse's" (member's), mouth!

Spotlight Sandra McArdle

A bit about me

I am the owner and founder of Sandra McArdle Jewellery. I am a silversmith and jeweller, and I trained at the London Jewellery School, Hatton Garden. I work from my studio near Newbury, Berkshire and I work in silver and gold. I make bespoke jewellery and gifts that evoke an emotional response to build or strengthen the bond between the giver and recipient. I take the ideas discussed with clients and create pieces that have their own story and significance, for example, I created a 30th birthday present for someone who had shown great strength in what had been a year of personal loss – a design which incorporated their birthstone and an interpretation of a Dara Knot, an ancient symbol of strength; and a pair of cufflinks for a saddle maker incorporating the saddler’s curved knife in the design. All commissions are accompanied by a storyboard detailing the design and production process, enhancing the ‘mark of authenticity’.

I also create ready to wear pieces which are available on my website or at Artisans Handmade UK Newbury in Parkway. These pieces can be customised for individuals as required.?I work alone in my business and so I am responsible for all elements of the business. While this is a challenge it is something that I enjoy.?

Why Athena?

Through my experience in a corporate role and my MBA research, I had established, traditional networks. As I started my own business, I actively sought a group of likeminded businesswomen with whom to network. I really appreciate the way women champion and encourage each other, which has been fantastic as a sole operator.?

Can you sum up your business in three words?

Personal, productive, exceptional.

How did you hear about Athena?

I saw the NWN adverts, then a friend invited me to another networking event but it wasn’t local and met weekly which was more than I could commit to at the time, so they suggested Athena.

What else would you like to get out of the group and how has it benefited you?

I have already achieved things in the first 3 months that were in my business plan for the next two years! I believe this is as a result of the shared experiences with my Athena colleagues and the encouragement to try things. The regular meetings, 1:1s with members and Pass Plus mean there are many learning opportunities, as well as the commitment to be held to account. As with all things in life, I believe you get out what you put in. I would like to learn more about how a small, independent creative business owner, can contribute to corporate social responsibility locally, with a woman’s refuge or charity. I am also interested in what symbiotic relationships there may be for me with other Athena members.?

If you had one bit of advice about joining a networking group, what would it be?

Find the right one for you, try before you buy!?

Your quote of the day?

I love this quote by Maya Angelou, she was a woman of great wisdom.

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style."

Connect with Sandra

Connect with Caroline?to find out more about the Athena Network West Berks