A Dundee University graduate is in the running for an nationwide online shopping award.
Beth Lamont has made her way into the finals with her handcrafted ceramic jewellery, and could take home thousands of pounds in prize money if she makes it to the top.
The 24-year-old’s pink rope and ceramic necklace is one of the finalists the fashion and accessories category of the 2016 UK Etsy awards.
Etsy, an online shop which allows sellers to market homemade crafts items to buyers around the world, has over 54 million users across 83 countries.
The grand prize, voted for by members of the public, comes with a £10,000 small business grant and a business support programme from The Design Trust.. Additionally, the winner’s products will feature in the Etsy Award Winners’ showcase at Tent London during London Design Festival.
Beth is pushing for a final boost in votes to get her past the finish line.
“It would be huge to win – it would be unbelievable,” she said.
“Just the kind of mentoring you would get from it would be amazing.
“The equipment you could buy with the money would be a big help. I’m not a technically trained ceramicist, so it would be an opportunity to perfect my craft. The possibilities would open up and provide new opportunities.
She added: “I’ve been overwhelmed by the support I’ve been shown.
“I want to make more products and develop my the line further. I really want to grow my business.”
Beth has been selling her products on Etsy for just over a year, and also regularly attends craft shows around the country to showcase her creations.
In addition to an overall winner based on the popular vote, each category will have a gold, silver and bronze, chosen by a panel of esteemed judges, including the head of buying for John Lewis.
Anyone winning those prizes will have their work featured at Tent London and a business support programme, while gold winners will also receive £2,500.
You can vote for Beth here.
The winners will be announced later this month, and voting closes at midnight today.
