A Year of Change, Craft and Community

Reflecting on a year of growth, colour, and the people who make it special

As I’ve only just put down my paint brushes for the year, I finally have time to reflect — on the furniture I’ve worked on, the places I’ve landed, and, most importantly, the people I’ve met along the way.

The start of 2025 felt unsettled. I’d moved my workshop from Somerset to the Cotswolds, and, once again, found myself finding my way. Since Covid, I’ve moved around more than I ever expected, and for a while my life was split — my home still in Somerset, my work steadily growing here in the Cotswolds. Work was picking up, opportunities were presenting themselves, and circumstances gently pushed me to make a bigger decision. So I bit the bullet and moved house too. It was a wrench — I loved where I was — but it’s turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made, both personally and for my business.

With that sense of grounding came a year of truly meaningful work.

Thank you to everyone who has supported my work, trusted me with their furniture, recommended me, or quite simply, followed along, here are some of my best bits...

Memorable Makeovers of 2025!

These are some of my stand-out pieces for the year, not just for how they looked when finished, but for the stories they carried with them.

One commission and four lovely pieces. The beautiful sideboard, painted in Midnight Blue by Fusion Mineral Paint, now sits beneath the print “It’s a Wonderful World” — which I loved, both because the colours work perfectly together and because it truly is a wonderful world.

The small table is so old that, once sanded back and waxed, its natural patina was simply beautiful. The TV unit and cabinet were brought back to life and now look fabulous in their rightful places. Three shades of blue, all working harmoniously within this lovely client’s interior scheme.

While working on this bureau, I discovered a photograph tucked down the back: a beautiful young woman, who quite resembles Twiggy in the 60s. The photo was of my lovely customer, now 70 and still beautiful. Finding her there felt like a quiet reminder of why I love what I do — these pieces have lived lives long before they reach my workshop.

Other projects challenged me technically. One particular “beast” of a piece went from being very dark and heavy to light, fresh, and elegant. With new hardware and a softer palette, it transformed completely and slotted perfectly into my customer’s interior scheme — proof that sometimes the biggest transformations are the most rewarding.

There were also pieces where restraint mattered just as much as detail. One of my favourites this year is this large black dresser, where subtle gold leaf, glossed carvings, and quiet embellishment allow the shape itself to make the statement. It's a reminder, that not everything needs to shout — sometimes craftsmanship whispers. If you have a small hotel or guest house, this could be the statement piece you're searching for. Click the image for more details.

Colour and confidence featured strongly too. One client in particular is fearless when it comes to pattern and colour — and I absolutely love working with people like that. One room in her beautiful home tells a story of bold choices and joy. I can’t take credit for the upholstery on that project — my talented upholsterer András worked his magic — but seeing those special chairs, sourced from France, finally get the treatment they deserved was incredibly satisfying. I have restyled many pieces for this lovely home - more photos to follow in the New Year.

Reimagining furniture continues to be one of my favourite parts of the job. A former dresser, once tall and traditional, became a more modern kitchen island — transformed with some TLC, Elderberry by Fusion Mineral Paint and oversized oak knobs. Seeing old forms take on new purpose never gets old for me.

Even grey had its moment this year. I’m not naturally a “grey person,” but suddenly several customers asked for it — and I have to admit, in the right surroundings, on the right pieces, it really worked beautifully. It reminded me that good design is about listening as much as it is about taste.

One particularl project saw a collection of furniture heading off to France — a little ironic, as I used to bring pieces in from France myself. It felt like things coming full circle.

Winter Clear Out!

Once Christmas is behind you and your attention turns back to your home and interior styling, now is an ideal time to explore the furniture currently in my sale. Reduced prices will remain in place until the end of January as I make room for more preloved and upcycled furniture arriving soon.

Delivery can be arranged nationwide — simply send your postcode for a courier quote — with free local delivery available. If a piece catches your eye, I’d recommend securing it as soon as possible. All items are one-of-a-kind, and once they’re sold, they won’t be repeated.

Considering a Furniture Commission?

If you have a piece of furniture that’s been well loved, feels a little dated, or simply no longer works for your space, commissions are a wonderful way to give it new life. I work closely with each client to restyle quality pieces so they suit both your home and your lifestyle — whether that’s through colour, finish, or thoughtful detailing. If you’re considering a commission for the year ahead, feel free to send a few photos and a brief description, and I’ll happily let you know what’s possible and provide an idea of cost.

We did it for Alzheimer's

Beyond work, one memory stands out as especially close to my heart this year — taking part in the Alzheimer’s Walk with my dear friend Carla. We raised a substantial amount of money between us, and it was a deeply meaningful day for many reasons: friendship, shared history, love, loss, and awareness. Stepping away from the workshop to take part in this walk for someone who means so much to me was a powerful reminder that while furniture tells stories, people are always at the centre of everything that matters.

I'm planning to walk for the Samaritans and mental health next year, hopefully with my walking buddy Carla.

A Heartfelt Thank You for Christmas!

Thank you so much for your interest, your messages, and for sharing photos and ideas with me throughout the year. As a small business, your support truly means more than you know, and I’m incredibly grateful for every conversation and connection.

As I look ahead to next year, I feel both excited and grounded — thankful for everything this year has brought, and inspired as I reflect on how I’d like the business to grow and evolve.

This year has been shaped by wonderful clients and new connections through work, many of whom have become genuine friends. A social life filled with dance (Ceroc), like-minded people who have warmly welcomed me into the area, and friendships formed locally have made this year feel especially rich. I feel very blessed to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community.

I wish you and your loved ones a truly wonderful Christmas and a New Year filled with love, peace, and happiness.

Have fun, and thank you again for being part of the journey.

Jo x

07717 535381

jo@relovedbyjo.co.uk

Reloved by Jo is for those who aren’t afraid of colour and want to save and upcycle with style! I’m here to help with sourcing, commission work, and/or give you the confidence to get started with your painting projects.

Contact Details: 07717 535381 - jo@relovedbyjo.co.uk

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JoReloved by Jo