By Press Release
Wight Originals has launched an on-line market place, showcasing more than 500 products from 45 artisans across the Island.
Founded by Karen Webster-Dunn, the on-line platform was developed from scratch to give a positive experience for customers to buy unique Island art, gifts, food and drink, ranging in price from £3 to £2,000. Sales will also support various Island charities, launching with the Wight Squirrel Project.
Miles Bullock from Island-based web-design agency, Dataviu, created the platform, allowing Island businesses to quickly and easily showcase and sell their products. On-line training materials are provided with face-to-face training available for those who need extra support. Claire Speight Design, in Sandown, created the logo and promotional materials for the brand, which is starting to be seen across the Island, with plans to launch on the mainland and globally in the autumn.
Karen has been a marketing consultant for 25 years, working with corporate clients and small businesses. After moving to the Island in 2012, she helped the Chamber of Commerce on its Start-Me-Up programme as a volunteer, teaching marketing, and mentoring new business owners.
She soon recognised the talent and quality of Island artisans, many with minimal funds and limited IT expertise, so she created Wight Originals to help them grow their businesses.
“We were keen that Wight Originals could include vendors with all levels of IT expertise,” Karen said. “We have some wonderful products available and are looking to grow the selection, whilst providing great support for our vendors and a fantastic experience for our global customers.
“We already have a superb community of vendors of all ages, many of whom didn’t know each other before. We all work together to deliver great products to our customers, learn and support each other, and have fun in the process!” she added.
The Wight Originals team look forward to meeting residents and visitors at events across the Island over the coming months. You can find them on social media sites LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.
