Audrey Corrigan

I am Audrey and I am the founder of Aud Design. Established in 2019 I create beautiful handmade collections and bespoke jewellery inspired by the textures of nature, using traditional jewellery forging and casting skills to make all of my pieces out of sterling silver, 9ct gold, precious and semi-precious gemstones in my home studio in Dublin.

I am inspired by escaping to the Irish coast with family and friends and getting to see that evening light catch the rocks is just magical.

I wasn’t always a jeweller I was a makeup artist working in film and TV. I fell in love with the craft of jewellery making when I took the leap back in 2018 to study full time at The School of Jewellery, the idea that a piece can last a lifetime and more really spoke to me.

What are your business objectives ?

It is important for me and my business to create connections with people through my pieces of art. I want to have my own studio in Dublin where I can invite fellow crafters and customers to show my pieces as well as hold consultations for bespoke commissions.

I also would like to have my pieces stocked in retailers around Ireland and visit those retailers throughout the year. I am stocked in The Collective on Drury Street in Dublin and aim to grow.

My learnings from the Crafting Business Programme:

I have learned you need to be patient and plan everything you do and want to achieve.

The business model canvas was a huge help during the Crafting Business Programme with TUS in helping me focus on the directions I want to take in my business. The incredible guest speakers who were brought in to talk about their journeys and the success they are having were really inspiring. We were also reminded that we are not alone and the supports are there for crafters through our Local Enterprise Offices and the DCCI.

This mantra stuck with me from the programme; ‘Business is a marathon, it is not about the destination, it’s about the journey.’

Also finding your people, your customers! I really want to connect with my customers and see why they like my pieces.

My top tips that I have learnt on this journey

Knowing where your skills are lacking, don’t be afraid to ask for help. The LEO and DDCI have amazing support with mentors, funding and programmes to help you with aspects of your business that you may not be as strong at.

Planning everything! From your day to day of your business to your plans for the future and the realities of what will take you there. There will be hiccups and doors closed in your face which might delay your plan. However…

Plans can change. Your business can pivot in different directions and that’s ok! If you are not where you want to be right now in your business it is possible you will be in a few months.