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Diane Meek is the driving force behind Alfriston's leading jewellery brand, Pearls of Alfirston.  This week the company will be celebrating its first anniversary.  Diane spent some time with The Sussex Newspaper to discuss the challenges facing new businesses, motivation and her newly rescued labrador.

How did you first get involved in the jewellery business and why?
At the age of 11, introduced to jewellery making by my local church youth leader, being fascinated I continued to make gemstone fashion jewellery for friends & family, this progressed to attending local fetes and craft markets supported by my parents.  On leaving school I apprenticed to a local jeweller in Welwyn, Herts learning silver & gold jewellery making and designing
 
How do you differentiate yourself from other shops selling similar products?
I stock jewelelry made by local designers, specially created one-off pieces, offer a bespoke design service and a fabulous range of pearls, both loose and ready to wear pieces, creations have included South Sea  Pearls mixed with sapphires and diamonds, bridal pieces with silver, gold & swarovski crystals.
 

What long term plans do you have for Pearls of Alfriston?
To create and design my own unique range of precious jewellery from the workshop on the premises and increase the local designer ranges.
 

What are the main challenges facing a new business and how did you overcome them?
The hardest challenges for me have been to establish the business and attract new customers on a very small marketing budget.  The accounts for the business have also been challenging ! mainly due to a lack of time

What motivates you and keeps you going when things get tough?
The love of beautiful jewellery, the pleasure on clients faces when they purchase a special piece and the enjoyment they will have from wearing something they treasure.
 

What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs about to launch their own business?
Go For It !
 

How do you unwind?
A glass of wine and a good meal with my daughter at the Wingrove House and walking our newly rescued labrador by the river here in Alfriston

Pearls of Alfriston will be hosting a thank you party for  all of the company's friends & customers.  You are invited to join them for a glass of bubbly and a collection of fine jewellery from Britain and around the world

The party will be taking place on Sunday the 4th of October at Deans Place Hotel in Alfriston  2 - 6pm
TEL 01323 871001
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