Hi Everyone!
What a year it’s been! As 2024 draws to a close, I can’t help but feel so proud and grateful for the journey my furniture business has taken this year, and continues to take me.
The year started slowly, gaining momentum in the spring, and then came the big move in the summer—from Somerset to the stunning Cotswolds. It was a whirlwind (and let’s be honest, exhausting!), but I’m so thrilled to now call this beautiful area home. Though my workshop is still a work in progress, things are settling down, and I’m building a wonderful reputation locally. I’m already fully booked for January!
As I step into my 10th year of professionally saving, restyling, and reloving furniture, I feel more passionate than ever. Upcycling has never been more celebrated, and the world of interiors feels like it’s bursting with creativity. Like fashion, everything goes around and comes around, and now more than ever, anything goes, which makes my work—and your homes—so much more fun.
I’m so lucky to have incredible customers who share my love for unique, sustainable furniture. Your support, kind words, and appreciation mean the world to me. Thank you for keeping in touch, trusting me with your projects, and finding joy in my pieces.
Here’s to a joyful Christmas season and an exciting 2025! I can’t wait to see what the new year brings. For now, here’s a look back at some highlights from 2024 and a sneak peek at what’s to come.
Wishing you all a magical Christmas! x
Makeover of the Month... or maybe year!
This is a fun story: a new customer recently came in with a rather unusual request—could I work on a boat? And not just any boat, but a real 1.2-metre one! Of course, I couldn’t resist the challenge, so I said yes.
I’ll admit that it turned out to be a much bigger project than I initially anticipated. Every detail required careful attention, and as you know, I’m not one to cut corners. But after plenty of time, effort, and a bit of creative problem-solving, the boat was transformed and ready to sail (or at least sit proudly on display!
While I’m no match for the professionals of The Repair Shop, I was pretty chuffed with the final result—and so was the customer! It’s projects like these that keep things interesting and push me to expand my skills. Who knows what unique challenge will come through the door next?
Paint it Beautiful
If you haven’t checked out the latest Fusion Mineral Paint colours yet, here’s another chance! I especially like the Iron Clay—it’s quickly becoming a favourite.
There are so many lovely colours within the Fusion range now, I never tire of using this amazing paint and the choice of colours available, aside from grey maybe? And white!
If you’d like to buy some paint, collection in person is welcome as always, or I can post it out to you.
A Couple of Favourite Before & Afters
Over the last 12 months I’ve had the pleasure of working on a wide variety of projects—everything from bedside cabinets and mirrors to dressing tables, home bars and yes, even boats! Each new arrival feels like a breath of fresh air, bringing with it the excitement of a new challenge.
I take the time to listen carefully to my customers, understand their vision, and offer advice when needed. Restyling furniture never gets old for me; every piece is an opportunity to experiment with different colors, finishes, and hardware. It’s incredibly rewarding to see a tired item transformed into something beautiful and unique!
Preloved & Latest Finds
I have some lovely pieces in stock, not all have made it to the website yet (a job for the new year), so if there’s something in particular you’re looking for, do get in touch.
If you have any interesting pieces that you’d like to sell do send photos to jo@relovedbyjo.co.uk
Wanted!
Those of you who came to visit my workshop in Somerset probably got to meet Paul, he was a huge help and is a big miss, he worked with me for a long time, sanding and prepping furniture. Unfortunately, my move to the Cotswolds was too far for him to commute so I’ll be looking for someone else to help in the new year and prep furniture, ready to paint.
I’m looking for someone who shares my passion for furniture, and has experience in sanding, either by hand or machine. If you can fix sticky drawers and replace hinges too, even better!
Initially, the work will average about one day a week, on a freelance basis from my workshop in Braydon. If this is of interest to you—or someone you know—please get in touch and email jo@relovedbyjo.co.uk with details.
What's New for 2025?
Shows! I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be hitting the road to attend a few events, giving people a chance to see what Reloved by Jo is all about. To prepare, I’ve been working on a couple of demo pieces to showcase the magic of upcycling.
It’ll be a fantastic opportunity to chat, share ideas, and explore colors, finishes, and techniques together. Keep an eye out for updates on dates and locations—I’d love for you to stop by and say hello!
And, exciting news... upcycling workshops ‘How to Paint Furniture Properly’ are now available to book for February and March. both on the 11th and 25th, they run from 10.30am until 1pm. As well as learning how to ‘Paint Furniture Properly’ you’ll get to enjoy scrummy cake and refreshments!
I have plenty of space here in Braydon, but during the winter months, workshops will be held in one of the portacabins which will be toastie warm! And therefore, I’ll be keeping the groups small—just 6 people per session.
Plus, don’t forget—attendees get 10% off all paint products on the day, so it’s a great time to stock up while learning something new.
It’s a fun and informative workshop, and for me, it’s such a pleasure meeting creative, like-minded people.
If you’d like to attend but can’t make the dates above, get in touch by emailing jo@relovedbyjo.co.uk and I’ll see what I can do.
Pass It On...
I admire and respect anyone who runs their own business, it’s hard work. So in this section of my newsletter I give a ‘shout out’ to people I use or come across who I think will be of benefit to you. You may not need their skills or products at this moment in time, but keep their details, you never know when you will.
Sadly, the courier I was using in the Cotswolds closed his business recently. These guys, Shane and Josh, came up trumps. I accept we were really lucky with timing and their location, but after a call (and cry for help) they arrived within the hour and delivered a piece of furniture for a customer who was struggling to find a courier.
Based in Corsham, here are their details:
Website: SJLogisticsGroup.com
Email: Info@SJLogisticsGroup.com
Phone: 01249 588 553
Time Outside of Work
There’s not been enough time outside of work this year, with the move. However, I have managed a few short breaks and down time with friends at home and away.with dancing and fizz usually involved!
And my dear mum turned 90 this year. She is AMAZING! ❤❤❤
Please Remember...
If you’d like to visit the workshop you’re most welcome, but please call or message prior to leaving home to see if I’m around, or to arrange a convenient time to visit. I may be out delivering and collecting and don’t want you to be disappointed.
I’m conveniently located between Cirencester and Swindon, within Braydon Manor Farm Works, Braydon, SN5 0AG.
And As Always, A Huge Thank You!
Thanks as always for being interested, sending photos, and keeping in touch. As a small business, your support and messages are really appreciated.
Wishing you and your loved ones a very happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Jo x
07717 535381
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.
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