1.  What is the story behind your business name:

I was searching for a name that wasn’t my own so I could experiment and try new things.

I knew I wanted something with ‘Romance’ – that’s what jewellery is for me. As a graphic designer i played around with the ‘o’ being a heart or ‘xo’……(lightbulb moment) I needed a word with ‘x’. I woke up next morning shouting “Next Romance”! (see logo for result).

What was your inspiration to start your own business:

When my youngest started school I had the big “What do I want to do with my life?” question. I had done 10 years as a graphic designer and found the customers and hours quite demanding to balance with young children. I had a surge of creative energy that I knew I had to channel somewhere.

I also have most of a degree in silversmithing and 5 years at St Kilda Sunday markets that I quit when I got pregnant. So I started sketching and making again. I loved it and decided to try and build something with it.

3. What does your workspace look like:

I’ve just moved my office out of our Richmond townhouse dining room into a group Artist Studio. It smells like linseed oil and it’s currently tidy and new and exciting and fresh. Can’t wait to get started designing and making in there.

Best thing about your job:   

a). Definately when I get an email or a comment that someone loves and connects with a piece I made them. 

b). The rare days when i really get to escape to my creative space for a few hours in a row. (not often enough at the moment). I LOVE creating, designing, making new things, sourcing new ideas, on-line shopping, and that I (two fingers bending) “need” to spend time on instagram for my “business”.

5. Best advice you could give other creatives who would like to start their own business:

Try to find the thing that makes you unique and that draws from your life experience and passions. 

Local markets are a great place to test your designs and ask for feedback.