A Fresh Chapter Begins

It’s been a while since I last updated this blog, and for good reason. Over the past months, I’ve been pouring my energy into something new, exciting, and a little daunting: the launch of Hen’s Tooth, my online shop dedicated to slow living, unique gifts, handmade treasures, and nature inspired rare finds, all curated with care.

Regular readers will remember that I finally got my hands on an allotment after being on the waiting list for 6 years! I named the allotment – Hen’s Tooth – because it was such a rare and precious thing.

The idea for my online shop sprang from this: “what if I could creature an income selling lively things online so I can hang out at my allotment whenever I like” – it had to call it Hen’s Tooth!

Hen’s Tooth – Rare finds, curated with care.A Story of Ups and Downs

Starting an online shop has been a journey filled with ups and downs, lessons learned, and moments of pure joy. Here is the story so far behind Hen’s Tooth – from the challenges of unreliable suppliers to the thrill of welcoming my very first customer.

The Early Struggles: Dodgy Suppliers and Delays

Like many small business owners, I began with big dreams and a notebook full of ideas. But reality hit quickly. Some of my first suppliers didn’t live up to expectations. From sample orders taking nearly a month to arrive, to poor quality items and even a very ugly tablecloth that bore no resemblance to the one I ordered – at least I got a refund!

Another drop shipping platform listed a company that turned out to have gone bust 3 months ago. Luckily, I got a refund for that one as well!

I’ve since found 2 really good and reliable UK based suppliers – however, they don’t ship overseas so for now, it will limit my options on some of my product listings.

It was frustrating, and at times I wondered if I’d made a mistake. But every setback taught me something valuable: the importance of trustworthy partnerships and the need to stay true to my vision of offering customers items that are both beautiful and dependable.

Turning the Corner: Finding Better Suppliers

After those rocky beginnings, I made the decision to re-evaluate my supplier list. I spent weeks researching, testing, and reaching out to new partners. This time, I focused on suppliers who:

Offered higher quality products that matched my brand’s values.Provided faster, more reliable shipping — essential for seasonal gifting.Shared my commitment to authentic craftsmanship and sustainability.

The difference was night and day. Suddenly, I had access to items I was proud to showcase — from handmade wooden Christmas decorations to vibrant velvet journals for stationery lovers.

Vibrant journals from Hen’s ToothThe High of the First Customer

Nothing compares to the moment when Hen’s Tooth welcomed its very first customer. Seeing that order come through was a mix of relief, excitement, and gratitude. It wasn’t just about the sale — it was proof that someone believed in what I was building.

That first customer reminded me why I started this journey: to create a shop that celebrates thoughtful gifting, slow living, and items with real character.

Building the Collection: From Décor to Journals

Since launch, I’ve been curating collections that blend utility, style, and emotional resonance. Highlights include:

Handcrafted Wooden Christmas Decorations – each piece unique, thanks to natural wood grain variations. Velvet & Leather Journals – perfect for those who love notebooks, journaling, and stationery. Festive Gifts for Him – practical yet stylish items designed to make Christmas shopping easier.

Every product tells a story – chosen with care, ensuring it’s something I’d be proud to give or receive myself.

It’s also given me the perfect excuse to switch up some of my own home decor – strictly in the name of product testing of course!

Gorgeous tufted cushions for my own sofa!Why I’ve Been Quiet on the Blog

I owe you an apology for not updating this blog sooner. The truth is, launching Hen’s Tooth has taken every ounce of focus and energy. Between sourcing suppliers, designing product categories, and preparing for Christmas gifting, time has flown by.

I’m excited to share more stories, updates, and behind-the-scenes insights as Hen’s Tooth continues to grow.

Looking Ahead: A Shop Built on Trust and Joy

Hen’s Tooth isn’t just about selling products — it’s about creating a space where gifting and furnishing a cosy home, feels authentic, joyful, and stress-free. I want customers to feel confident that every item has been carefully selected, tested, and chosen with love.

Call to Action: Be Part of the Story

As Christmas approaches, I’d love for you to be part of Hen’s Tooth’s journey.

Visit the site and explore the shelves. Add your favourites to your wish list — especially as items are selling fast. Sign up to the VIP newsletter for early access to new arrivals, exclusive offers, and festive inspiration.

Your support means the world, and together we can make this season one of warmth, generosity, and meaningful gifting.

Final Thoughts

Launching Hen’s Tooth has been a rollercoaster — from dodgy suppliers to the joy of the first customer, from sleepless nights to the excitement of curating new collections. But every step has been worth it.

The story of this shop goes beyond a business; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, tradition, and thoughtful gifting. And I can’t wait to see where the journey takes us next.

Ready to discover Hen’s Tooth? Visit the shop today — browse the shelves, add your favourites to your wish list, and sign up to the VIP newsletter for festive updates.

The post Launching Hen’s Tooth: The Story Behind My New Online Shop appeared first on Amy Morse.