We are a very proud stockist of Storeys & Tails, the makers of the most beautiful, handcrafted dog accessories with a cult following from both our and their loyal customers.
Here’s just three of the many reasons why we love this maker:
1. Natasha of Storeys & Tails is actually a really lovely human.
2. They don’t just do leather, the soft All Weather collars are constructed using Biothane® which means if you’ve got a sea-faring spaniel or river-dwelling dachshund, you can still choose a colourful collar that’s designed to get wet.
3. They offer a Recycle & Reuse program to ensure precious materials like the gorgeous solid brass hardware they use can be repurposed rather than end up in landfill.
Read on to find out what a typical Sunday looks like for Natasha and even more reasons why we love working with her.
How did the brand come about?
Storeys and Tails started really when I started working at a leather tannery as my first job out of university. I was developing leather goods for brands and every time someone wanted dog collars I was always disappointed by the lack of colour available. I knew there were lots of options when it came to leather so I bought some pieces and made my own. Then when I was on maternity leave, I wanted to see if this idea had legs so I went out to some markets and was met with such amazing support.
What does a normal Sunday look like for you?
Normally i’m up early with my two children, getting the two year old to eat some breakfast. With young children, I think morning lie-ins are a thing of the past! I make myself a coffee, I’m not a morning person so anything to help me wake up is much needed.
Then I’m heading to the studio for the day. Since we opened it in April this year we’ve been holding workshops where you can make your own leather dog collar and lead. I will have tidied and cleaned the day before so it’s just getting the kettle on to make some fresh coffee and a pot of tea. On the way I will have picked up some cakes for the course from one of my favourite local businesses @thecupcakecollectionx.
When the students arrive, I often feel like i’m welcoming old friends. We usually hold these on a Sunday as it gives it that lovely relaxed atmosphere. We chat and laugh while we craft their collars and leads, and I walk them through each step and talk about why leather is such a wonderful material to work with. i think everyone leaves with a feeling of joy and achievement at what they’ve achieved including me!
Once the workshop is over, I’ll say my farewells and then have a tidy up before getting back to my family. My husband Alex loves to cook so he might create a classic Sunday roast or some sort of home cooked meal to enjoy together in our home in Bideford.
What’s your home like? Is your decor style influenced by your brand or the other way around?
We live in a townhouse which has some very classic features. My homewares style is colourful, but ultimately classic which I think is reflected in the Storeys and Tails aesthetic. Our collars are of course colourful but finished with classic brass hardware which makes them timeless.
What are some of your favourite places to go to around your home?
We love the beach. Northam Burrows is our regular walking spot because it’s so open and expansive and i love watching our spaniel Jeanie sprint up and down the beach. She loves the water so being near the sea is great for her. If i’m by myself I’ll walk at Abbotsham Cliffs, it’s the prettiest bit of coastline and the view is just breathtaking.
Tell us some more about Jeanie the spaniel!
She’s a working-style cocker and she’s pretty cheeky. She’s been known to steal food from plates, tables and even straight out the grill! She’s so loyal though.
What’s new for Storeys and Tails in 2024?
We’re thrilled to have just launched all-weather harnesses which was a massive request from our loyal following and then at the moment we’re working on some new and very exciting product developments so watch this space!
Want to meet Natasha and learn more about the Storeys and Tails ethos and crafting techniques? Follow @storeysandtails on Instagram or visit their store, voted Best Lifestyle Store in Devon.
Upcoming Workshops:
17th January
28th January
14th February
25th February
BOOK HERE: https://storeysandtails.co.uk/products/make-your-own-luxury-leather-collar-and-lead-workshop