Winter’s Moon is such a beautifully curated, welcoming space. What inspired you to create it, and what has your journey as a woman building this business taught you?
Julia - I think I was frustrated at the lack of choice in the city - there wasn't a shop selling the products I wanted in my home or to gift to loved ones. But it's a reflection of all the women who work with me - from the product on the shelves to the displays, it's very much a team effort. I think the journey has taught me to have patience - it takes a long time for people to get to know a business, to listen to those around you and to just keep going. Creating anything worthwhile is hardwork in my experience.
This International Women’s Day, Winter’s Moon is partnering with My Sisters’ House to give back to women in our community. Why is supporting women’s charities and initiatives important to you personally and as a business owner?
Julia - The support we have been able to offer My Sister's House has been the biggest joy. We wanted to create a beautiful house scent, made locally that customers would love, and that would also do some good. It has worked beyond all expectation I think partly because Nic from Pure Cariad created the most amazing entirely natural aroma, which customers would buy regardless of the charity element - but the fact that it also can helps women going through difficulties is just wonderful.
As one of four sisters with two daughters, supporting a local women's charity felt instinctive. We started supporting them during COVID with another project as domestic abuse was in the headlines, and it was my daughter who researched and found My Sister's House. We have continued to support them ever since.
Winter’s Moon has become a much-loved part of Chichester’s independent business community. What does being a woman-led business in Chichester mean to you, and how do you feel the city supports (or inspires) female entrepreneurs?
Julia - I'm really happy to be where we are right now in terms of the size of the business and in such a beautiful city - there is nowhere else I would prefer to be than our little spot on North St. The community around us tends to be female-led by nature from the other businesses, to the team at Chichester Bid and the majority of our customers and suppliers - who all support us in a myriad of ways. It is a tough landscape just now though for anyone trying to grow any type of business so these relationships feel even more important right now, and I would welcome any other independents in the city - we need every single one!
Finally, could you give us your top 5 Chichester picks for the upcoming months, this can be events, exhibitions, Supper clubs, theatre productions etc…
Julia - Robin's Nest cafe for supper clubs! Robin's Nest Coffee Shop
Comedy at The Nest at CFT Home | Nest
The lunchtime concerts at the Cathedral Concerts | Chichester Cathedral
Cheese scones at Common Ground are an event all of their own! Home | C O M M O N | G R O U N D S | C O F F E E
H is for Hawke at New Park Cinema Chichester Cinema at New Park