Episode 41 : Emma talks to Sarah James, MBE. Founder of Craft Festival

This episode was originally recorded as part of a series of interviews that I did for Do Radio, which they have generously allowed me to share with you, and I’m so pleased they did because the insights in these conversations are golden.Sarah James has been organising multi award-winning arts festivals for over 22 years. She is Managing Director and founder of non-profits Craft Festival, Bovey Tracey, Cheltenham and Cardigan. She also co-founded and produced Nourish Festival (Food, Craft & Music) for 10 years until 2023. She founded Find a Maker and popular podcast, The Capital of Craft in 2021. She was awarded an MBE for services to Craft in the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours List. Born & Bred in Cardigan, West Wales, Sarah is a ceramics graduate from Glasgow School of Art and an avid collector of craft, especially ceramics. She has had a varied career including making, podcasting, writing, curating, retailing, mentoring and lecturing on business start-up. Sarah has focused on arts event management and business development training since 2003 and works regularly with a variety of universities and national craft organisations providing training at undergraduate and post-graduate level. Being an obsessive user of social media for business and the ability to think on her feet whilst smiling is a fundamental part of her business strategy. “Treat people how you would like to be treated and expect the same in return.” Sarah is mam to Ella and Lewi and lives between Cardigan and Bovey Tracey, Devon with her husband Andy and their dogs.Aside from so much wisdom in the form of life lessons, this episode will also be really helpful if you’ve ever dreamed of taking a stand at Craft Festival or similar events as Sarah provides so much invaluable advice about securing and making the most of your opportunity.You can find Sarah’s Craft Festival website here and her instagram hereThank you for reading and thank you for listening.Join our growing Community of people who value building a business that fits your life, rather than a life that fits in round your business. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit countrywomansguide.substack.com