Along avec Anna has come a long way since it started life as a sewing blog back in 2013. We’re a small, but growing, team and it’s time to introduce you to the newest addition!
Tell us about your role at Along avec Anna!
Hi, I’m Karen and I am the new Marketing Manager at Along Avec Anna!
So, how did you get into marketing?
My background is in hospitality and events, and after graduating from Bournemouth University with a BA (Hons) Tourism and Hospitality Management, my career started working in a conference and events agency booking various events for corporate clients all over the UK. I then worked for two different large hotels and started to focus more on sales, account management and marketing, which is when I developed my passion for marketing and communications! My husband and I relocated to Devon in around 2012 and I then worked at South Devon College as Head of Marketing and Communications for seven years, where I led the College through a brand refresh, two new websites, a team restructure and more. I took some time out after having my second son to be at home with our children, which also coincided with Covid times! More recently I have been involved in the marketing team with a local charity called Devon Communities Together and have also been involved with the Glastonbury Festival on a voluntary basis.
What made you want to work at Along Avec Anna?
I have known Anna for a number of years and have always admired her passion, determination and creative spirit! She has been guiding me through some beginner knitting in the round hints and tips, as I have knitted in the past so a bit rusty! When the opportunity came along to work with Anna to help the business grow and become even more successful, I jumped at the chance…combining my work skills with a personal interest in a business that is so focussed, a perfect match!
Are you a knitter?
I am a bit of a novice knitter! My mum has knitted for years, and so did my grandma, so I grew up with them teaching me and I have knitted various garments and projects in the past. I have to confess to having a very eclectic yarn stash in the loft – doesn’t everyone?! I have also made various fabric based projects and garments over the years and have an interest in crafts, so Anna and I have had a lot to talk about (not just the children!)!
If you were an Along avec Anna pattern, which one would you be and why?
Eek, that is a tough one! I think I would be the Camellia Tank Top. Why? Well, it is very versatile and not always what it seems. It can be dressed up for a lovely dinner or night out, or more casual for a relaxed walk on the beach or coffee in the garden – very much how I like to be!
If you were an Along avec Anna colourway what would you be?
Gosh this is so hard as they are all lovely! Does it have to only be one?! I think it would have to be Royal or Tomette as they make a bit of a statement, are quite bold and not afraid to stand out 🙂
Tell us a little about your life outside of Along avec Anna
I have lived in Exeter for about 10 years now and love it! I have been with my husband for 18 years, married for nearly 10, and we have two young and very energetic boys! This in itself keeps me very busy, but I love being around for them all. I also enjoy being outdoors and active. I love trying to make thee most out of our very small garden, and have an apple tree, blueberry bush, nature pond, bug hotel, bird feeders, sunflowers growing and a few other wild flowers, plus some tomatoes and cucumbers in the greenhouse. We take many trips to the beaches here in Devon or Dartmoor – we are very lucky to live in such a beautiful place. I also love cooking different food and trying out new recipes – I am getting really good at ‘fake aways’ now, things like kebabs, chinese dishes and even burgers that are close to some high street fast food restaurant…
Interviewed by
Sarah xxx
