Meet the Owner- Niki Willows

30 Nov Meet the Owner- Niki Willows

We are really enjoying getting to know the different business owners who are showcasing their products at the St. Agnes Parish Chamber of Commerce Christmas Market, on the 10th December.

Today we are chatting to Niki Willows from Niki Willow Prints based in Porthtowan. You can find Niki in the Church on the 10th December 5.30pm-8.30pm.

Niki,

Describe your business in 3 words.

Original hand-printed linocuts

How long have you been trading?

18 months seriously. Playing with printing for a few years.

What is your favourite item that you sell or make?

My doodly town prints, currently my ‘growing up’ town Wells-Next-The-Sea in North Norfolk, Porthtowan where I live now and Bristol where my husband grew up. I love making these as they all have stories woven in, some just for me and some that other people will recognise. My Wells print is called Teenage Kicks because we had a right blast, and my Porthtowan one, The Goodlands, as it’s always been good to me.

What are your top 3 tips for someone wanting to start their own business?

Do what you love. Cross it over with an existing job, you don’t have to stop one thing and immediately begin the other. Read Screw Work, Let’s Play by John Williams. (and never think it’s too late – I know that’s four!)

Describe your dream afternoon away from your business.

Well, I rather like my business and it’s a bit of a dream to be doing it! If I had to, it would be teleporting to London to see my printmaking sister Kate Willows and going to some galleries to look at more prints, a lovely lunch and then home in time for a pint at Blue.

What are your top 3, all time favourite films?

Pride

A Knights Tale

Grease

(anything non-violent!)

What is your favourite season in St. Agnes Parish and why?

My favourite season in Porthtowan is October onwards. It’s quieter and the village kind of hunkers down for the winter. You see people that you know when you’re on the beach or walking to the Village Stores and have a catch up after the summer. We’re also looking forward to sparkly lights and festive times and the Eco Park market, and now the St Agnes Market too.

What are you asking for from Father Christmas this year?

Friends and family hugs. Some will be virtual as our children live all around the world. It’s one time of year, despite the time zones, I get them all on Zoom at the same time. Happy Mum!

You can also find Niki at @nikiwillowsprints, her ETSY shop NIKIPRINTS, Mount Pleasant Eco Park Christmas Market and at the Blue Bar in Porthtowan.