Blog 8: We're back with a winter re-cap!

Hello from a very stormy solent! It’s February and as we (hopefully) move towards the end of lockdown three, we’ve been taking a look back at all that’s happened since last autumn.

In September, just after we last posted, restrictions eased and boats headed back out onto the water. We were proud to be one of the key sponsors for the J-Cup regatta, awarding one of our gorgeous cushions as a dedicated prize to best female helm. All winners received a limited edition gurnard cushion (we’ve only two left, so hurry!) It was lovely to be back out on the waves again; in fact, XV’s Izzey was out there racing with the rest at the Women’s Open J70 Championship. Go Izzey!

In October, XV pushed its reach a little further, finding new followers from the UK to the USA through the power of Facebook. Our new fans hopped on board just in time for sign-off of the Just Stripes range, which launched in November. This beautiful everyday collection follows a classic blue and white stripe format: look closely and you’ll see it includes an adorable mini pillow, ideal as a foot or headrest. The best things come out of accidents, and this little bedfellow was a great example. Not a stitch of material is wasted around here…

That same month we also launched a bespoke service, tailoring ranges for those dreaming of personal designs. Our first customer had their hearts set on two themes: travel and sailing. We had lots of fun creating and delivering, and the whole project panned out via Zoom, proving that if you’re intent on making something work, it will. What lockdown?

Late November and we were all over Black Friday, throwing ourselves in at the deep end with plenty of brilliant offers. Then it was time to deck the halls and mull the wine. With Christmas being the season of gifts and giving, we saw no better time for launching our Island Scents range of deliciously evocative candles in three heady aromas. Conjuring up sea breezes and dreamy dune days, the candles come with an elegant box of long matches.

After Christmas we took a breather, but not for long. Covid had given us plenty of thinking time, during which it just so happened that another brilliant idea sparked into life. We’d been planning to partner up with an organisation, and Hampshire Wildlife Trust was happy to collaborate. We hope to launch a new range with them later this year, so look out for some delightfully marine-themed designs about all things sub-aqua…

Now we’re looking ahead to a busy few months. We’re getting to know you, our new customers, and what you like. You’ve given lots of positive feedback on quality and customer service – the two key attributes that we’ve aimed for since day one. Our goal now is to continue developing our brand, nurturing all the new ideas we create, forging great relationships with customers and colleagues, and bringing high quality designs to you.

Watch this space for new collections, new colours and new ideas, and do get in touch with all your queries, suggestions and comments. We love to hear from you! See you next post.

 Best wishes, XV HQ