In conversation with Hannah from Land Tales / On sustainable homeware and ethical retail
I am constantly inspired by brands that challenge the status quo, especially those with a deep commitment to sustainability and doing business in a kinder way. That’s why I am excited to introduce a new series where I will share stories from conscious business owners making waves in their industries. These conversations will dive into their journeys, explore how they’re driving positive change and their thoughts on the future of their industries.
Although I started this series on Instagram, I wanted to hold space for longer and deeper conversations here. I am delighted to feature Land Tales as the first business, they are an online shop that curates beautifully crafted homewares and gifts made in the UK. Land Tales, run by the wonderful Hannah, embodies a thoughtful approach to retail, which values the journey of each product from maker to home.
Why did you start your business?
The idea for Land Tales emerged from a feeling that it should be easier to shop for goods and gifts that tread lightly on the planet. I'm always interested to know where a product is made and how far it’s travelled to arrive in my home, and this was the starting point for Land Tales. I focus on selling beautiful, well-crafted home goods and gifts - including plenty of ceramic tableware - all made in the UK.
On a personal level, I’ve always loved the idea of having my own shop. Growing up, I imagined this to be a physical shop space (I wouldn’t rule that out in the future) but with Land Tales I really enjoy the challenge of building an online retail space that feels warm and welcoming.
What impact do you want your business to have in the world?
Perhaps I should be more ambitious, but at the moment I’d be really pleased simply to spark more curiosity and inspire people to ask questions about where and how the products they buy are made. Oh, and the idea of homes filled with well-crafted homewares that won't be discarded with passing trends also feels like a pretty positive impact - I'd be happy with that!
How do you approach doing good for people or the planet in your business?
I try to consider people and the planet in every business decision, however small, whether it's the materials I’ll use to wrap orders, or seeking out locally grown flowers to fill a vase in my pop-up shop. But I'm keenly aware that there's further to go.
From the people side of things, the majority of my suppliers are solo makers or producers who work in very small teams. Building up those relationships is one of the best parts of this job, and I hope the wholesale orders I place will have a positive impact on their own businesses.
What do you wish to see more and less of in your industry?
More honesty, less waste.
What’s one thing you wish your customers knew about homegoods or lifestyle products that are made sustainably?
I'd love to be able to shine a light on the processes that go into making some of the products in the shop. Take a ceramic mug made by a potter, for example. Each step in the process takes time and care, not to mention years of practice to develop the skills required, as well as time spent developing the shapes and glazes.
There are also many costs involved, from the studio space, the equipment and raw materials, the energy to fire up the kiln, and so on... I think when we have the chance to see these things (following potters on Instagram is a great place to start) it's easier to understand why something handmade costs more.
My conversation with Land Tales has reminded me that every purchase we make has a story behind it - a story shaped by the hands of skilled artisans and the desire to create something meaningful. By choosing products made with intention and care, we’re not just filling our homes with beautiful items, we’re supporting a more sustainable and intentional way of living - which is exactly what we’re about at Kind and Ivy.
