Bringing business ideas to life | Launching Mariah Craft Art online

About Maria and her business idea

“In the beginning I was lost. I didn't know how to start because, [The UK] is a new country for me, I didn't know the rules. I didn’t know what I should do to start a business.”

Maria came to ACH seeking assistance in starting her business in the UK. Being relatively new to Bristol, with so many ideas, Maria wasn’t sure how to start a business or what path to choose.

Leaning to crochet a stress reliever during lockdown, Maria discovered a passion for art and making handmade products.

The process of bringing Maria's business idea to life

“It was really nice workshops. I really enjoyed it. ACH Gave me the strength to do this, which is really good.”

Through 1-2-1 support, our business facilitators helped guide Maria through the process of establishing a business from setting up an Etsy shop to understanding business regulations. Just two months after approaching ACH, Maria gained the confidence and courage to launch Mariah Craft Art, selling beautiful and carefully crafted handmade crochet online through Etsy, from keyrings to toys and much more.

The business now...

“I hope my handmade products be a stand out brand name because I do it with all the love I have and every item I make [a product] I feel attached to it before I sell it.”

Since the launch of Mariah Craft Art in October 2020, Maria has been hosting her own workshops for refugees who have recently moved to Bristol with Refugee Woman of Bristol and Bristol Mind, sharing her passion and teaching people how to make crochet. “I know the important thing about making art and also creating, something with your hands. It makes you feel relaxed and takes all the stress out.”

She also organises and markets her products at the Christmas and Ramadan markets at Easton Community Centre alongside offering spaces for other small business owners from refugee or migrant backgrounds. But it doesn’t stop there, Maria has worked with Royal West of England Academy (RWA), running arts and craft workshops and exhibitions around Bristol, is an artist with Bristol Refugee Artists Collective, and collaborates with UWE Art foundation students.

Looking forward, Maria wants to continue growing her customer base, become more established in the Bristol area and explore opening a shop that would also include handmade accessories and embroidery.

Any advice for people thinking about setting up a business?

“My advice - just go and do it.

When I joined ACH, I had been in the UK for two years so I was still new but the support I received made me feel confident and I want to go outside and meet other people. There are so many opportunities, don't waste your time, just start.”

Would you recommend ACH for business support?

'Yes, definitely. I always do. I always recommend ACH for other businesses because the benefit I have received from them is massive.'

In one sentence, how would you describe the business support you have received from ACH?

'It's amazing!'

We are so happy for Maria and everything she has achieved with Mariah Craft Art. We can’t wait to continue supporting Maria to grow her business and to see where her business will take her next!

You can visit Maria’s shop online here - MariahCraftart - Etsy UK

Why not give her socials a follow too! 

• Mariah faiomy (@mariah_craftart) • Instagram photos and videos
• Mariah_craftart (mariahfaiomi) - Profile | Pinterest

Thinking about setting up your own business?

ACH offers free personalised support with the launch or growth of your business.

Contact us to find out more or visit our webpage.