I really love being asked to make special pieces for people. There is always a story behind every commission and it’s so lovely to be a part of it. Last year I was commissioned to make three vases by a bride-to-be for her three mothers. They were to be made from white porcelain and lined with gold lustre and she wanted them to be ready for her wedding in August. Her three mothers would all be there, her mother, her stepmother and her soon-to-be mother in law. She wanted to give them each a vase on the day to thank them for all they had done for her and to celebrate their important roles in her life. I was so touched by this and I made all three out of the same piece of clay; the vases were all different, tall and willowy like arum lilies and she loved them. Families come in all shapes and sizes and it warms me to think of these three mothers sharing something so special. They each received a gift, hand made for them from one piece of clay, linking them together and always reminding them of their lovely thoughtful daughter. Never have we needed to stay as close to our families and friends as we do now. Stay safe and keep well everyone.