A few months ago, Word Forest CEO Tracey West and I were delighted to receive an invitation from Childrensalon to organise a craft table for children at an event celebrating their 70 year anniversary.
Childrensalon is a company with family at its heart, selling beautiful children’s’ clothing. Its founder, Sybil Harriman, was a talented seamstress who would hold sewing circles in her home to teach others how to remake fabrics into stunning garments for their youngsters. The business grew and in 1952 she opened her shop in Tunbridge Wells and began to stock other brands in. At the end of the ‘80s, with the launch of its website, the company went global. There are still members of the original family on its 500 strong team today.
The event, for all the staff and their families, was held in the grounds of Chiddingstone Castle and it was an absolute joy from start to finish. It was so well thought out and organised. There was a magical trail for the children with things to find, as well as face painters, swing boats and a little carousel. Food and drink was available all afternoon and there was seating arranged all around so that people could sit and relax and enjoy the sunshine and music.
Our stall was set out under a tipi shaped shelter and offered three activities; the children could choose to decorate a fairy door or a mask, or to make a wishing stick. Their creativity and imagination were boundless and there were many fabulous designs. Some of the grown ups (including us) couldn’t resist the temptation to join in.
Childrensalon were kind enough to arrange a hotel for us to stay in after the event – it’s quite a trek from Devon to Kent!
It was an honour to be part of such a lovely afternoon. We are so grateful to Childrensalon, not just for inviting and looking after us so well but for the continued support that they give to Word Forest. Tracey commented: “Our collaboration with corporate partner Childrensalon is a beautiful one. A safe, stable future for children the world over sits at the heart of it. What a joy it is to see the Childrensalon trees increasing month on month with their kind donation. This is powerful corporate social responsibility with human miracles built in!”
We wish them every success for the next 70 years and beyond!
Izzy Robertson and Tracey West
