As I finish up dispatching orders and meeting final customers for the year, I just want to take a moment to look back over 2025. For so many reasons, it has without doubt been the most exciting year for Tom's Yard. Though it's not been without its challenges!
Following the most remarkable Spring, we got a little bit more than we bargained for when a rather warm and even drier Summer came along. Would you believe that Thames Water lifted their final hosepipe ban on November 27th? Unbelievable.
But being the type of person that never likes to dwell on the negatives (oh boy could I go on about pot breakages, cash-flow challenges and tricky situations!), let's get into the highlights of 2025.
The Big Award
Without doubt, the highlight of 2025 must be attending the ProLandscaper 30 Under 30 awards in London. Highlighting young individuals making an impact across the landscaping / design industries; I remember jumping for joy when an unexpected email arrived in my inbox.
After so many years working long hours and pouring so much hard graft into this business, to feel recognised on this scale was just incredible. It actually made a rather exciting trip because it's a very rare occasion that I head into London...
RHS Chelsea
Across the years I have worked with a number of production companies, designers and various businesses. But this year, being approached by a number of various exhibitors of the Chelsea Flower Show was amazing. It was such a thrill seeing my pots on display - including around Max Parker-Smith's ''Moments of Reflection'' in the Grand Pavilion.
Will you see my pots return to the show in 2026? I'll leave that hanging for now... *wink wink*
Exciting Homes
If there's one aspect of my job that gives me the greatest satisfaction, it's supplying historic gardens. I am a bit of a self-confessed nerd when it comes to garden history, so when the opportunity comes up to supply a special space - on a very personal level, it warms me to the soul.
Unfortunately though, it is the one aspect of the business that I have the least opportunity to promote. Because many of the spaces are privately owned and still act as people's family homes, I'm often politely asked not disclose names and working relationships - even if said properties open to the public.
However, that all said (and with permission), this year me & Leo had the immense pleasure in making trips to visit Highclere Castle & Badminton Estate in the Tom's Yard wagon. So a very special thanks goes out to Lady Carnarvon and the Duchess of Beaufort for supporting the Yard. Hopefully the next time you visit either of the estates (or watch Downton Abbey!), you may just spot a familiar pot.
More Stock
Each year the business continues to grow, and with that - the challenge of keeping it fresh & exciting never ends.
This year has seen two new potteries join the suppliers list; a second potter in England and then the most exciting addition yet - a family producing glazed ceramics in rural Morocco.
2026 is already booked to see the arrival of over 1000 pieces- super exciting... but the big question is, what will be next...
I already have my eyes on a second pottery in South East Asia, with a hope of finding a new supplier in Western Europe for more small wares. But with the logistics, high minimum order values and long production times often being a problem in the pot trade - there are often many hurdles to navigate before ever coming to a deal.
