Since my children were little, we've encouraged them to have fun and aim to do what they love for a job which has resulted in a family life of travelling, creativity and growing pride in our two artistic children. Thankfully, they picked up a good work ethic along the way. 

As Yellowstone recently celebrated it's 3rd Birthday, I felt propelled to contribute to the blog after a lovely day working in the shop. I regularly stop and think "I love this place" and what a privilege it is to work with so many brave artists, who, like my own children, have pushed to have careers in their passion. Every YS artist is so different, yet they all have a key similarity. They're all living their own dream, pursuing their passion, making it happen themselves and more importantly, being happy about it. The dedication I see in the artists we stock is inspiring and gives me confidence in the arts.

When I was young, I was discouraged from trying to make a living from art and design. Creative industries were mysterious back then. My one piece of advice to any artist or maker who has the desire (and talent) to make a career in this area is 'go for it'. People only regret those things they didn't do. And everyone loves a hard worker.

I'll try not to be the proud Mum, and look at Hannah as a young artist and gallery owner she is (for those who aren't sure, Hannah (owner of YS) is my daughter and technically, my boss!). But it's hard not to be amazed at her bravery to put herself out there. It was always my son, that said I'd work for him one day.

So for any creatives reading this, who need some motherly advice- get your head down, don't be afraid to work hard, research everything intensely and stay positive. And one day soon, maybe I'll be wrapping and selling your work to our customers.

Steph x

  I joined the Yellowstone family last July.  Having spent many an hour as a customer flicking through the browsers, admiring the new exhibitions and daydreaming about owning every piece of jewellery, I took my place behind the counter for the first time. It wasn’t long before I managed to wrap goodies (very shakily), use up all the tip-ex and lock myself out of the till.   Luckily our customers are lovely, whether they are browsing on a Sunday afternoon or franticly grabbing for presents they always stop for a chat and instantly made me feel at ease. Now, days are spent stocking up or unwrapping new work (the best job in the world).  There probably isn’t a better feeling than being the one on shift when a new delivery of makers work arrives. I will openly admit that a good chunk of my wages are spent on my Yellowstone/craft addiction. 

   I am also lucky enough to be one of the makers at Yellowstone and it was one of the first shops to stock my work in 2012. Therefore, for me, Yellowstone acts as my 'eyes' in to the retail world and it is lovely to hear customers comments. Witnessing trends develop and seeing how makers finish and pack their work (which makes an order so exciting to open!), both help me learn as an artist.

   It is also especially nice to witness the joy and excitement customers get when buying handmade items.  What makes it extra special for me is knowing that each purchase, from a card to an original painting, supports a fellow maker friend, an independent shop and the craft industry in the UK.

  My current favourite Yellowstone artist is Kate Viggers, I love her fresh yummy prints (her Bears are on my wish list).  I met Kate at Spitalfields Market in London last year, now I am pleased to see her work in the shop alongside some of my favourite makers from Staffordshire and beyond. 

Emily x

Having received a ‘U’ in my GCSE Graphics course, I'm certainly not in any position to educate the readers of this blog about the complexities of being/becoming an artist. Being the lesser half of an incredibly talented gallery owner however, does qualify me to share an insight to a behind the scenes peak into life after closing time.

       The owner and creator of Yellowstone is equally as independent as her shop, yet is more family and friend orientated than anyone else I'll ever meet. Hannah likes what she likes. Carefully hand picked pieces are what customers buy in YS, because it's unique and inspiring to them. Yellowstone is guilty for selling tiny little pieces of personality, and very talented personalities at that.

       When the ‘closed’ sign goes up or the boss has a day off, her brain switches on. Phone in hand or laptop by her side, Yellowstone evolves and moves forward every minute of the day. Our home is full of fun, laughter and message tones; texts, emails, Etsy orders and phone calls. Whether it’s a studio day or a ‘rest’ day, the show must go on. Married to her job? too attached? Obsessed perhaps?!

When you look around our home and see things like; the flowers set out in old tonic bottles and jam jars, the way my dinner is laid out on the plate, the constant candles burning and dim lighting, chalk board walls, nests of framed artwork, Polaroid photos and angle poised lamps - It's not someone trying to be different and 'arty' (hate that word), it's just the home of an actual creative person, through and through. Any passive frustration, tears and tantrums are just bits of creativity trying to come out.

       Some very rich pop stars make millions by being sad, having their hearts broken and then singing about it. I believe Yellowstone benefits from a very happy Hannah Stoney, and when things are going right, it's reflected in what you'll find on the walls. Brad Pitt of all people once said ‘the woman is the reflection of her man. If you love her to the point of madness, she will become it’. Peculiar source, but I think the man has a point.

       My job involves teaching primary school aged children. Every day I encourage creativity. At home it is no different. Treasure the creative people in your life, family and friendship circles. They're fortunate enough to have positive outlets for their personalities. Whether it's through art, sport or other means.

Married to her job? too attached? Obsessed perhaps?! – none of the above. Yellowstone isn’t the third person in our relationship…it makes it.

Stevie x