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Crafts by Maddy: A Small Business with a Big Purpose
Hello everyone,
My name is Maddy Boughton I am 24 years old. I have autism , dyspraxia and ocd. In my life I have received a lot of bullying which has resulted in me being anxious and have had low self confidence as a result. I have always been creative since a young age and in the third lockdown I was looking for a creative hobby to fill my time. My mum suggested crocheting so I taught myself how to crochet by watching YouTube tutorials. I got addicted to crocheting and after receiving encouragement from my family I set up my business Crafts by Maddy in 2021.
In September 2023 I wrote an article for the we roar magazine that empower entrepreneurs with a focus on neurodiversity. After writing this article I realised that I wanted to use my buisness as a positive way to inspire people with neurodivergence to embrace their differences.
Since then I have expanded my shop to include a wide range of items. I sell handmade crocheted toys , keyring , scrunchies , hand stitched tote bags , pencil cases , handmade pottery coasters , trinket dishes , calligraphy cards , hand painted canvases along with painted pebbles all ukca tested and I do custom orders as well.
My buisness has allowed me to regain my confidence and I hope to continue to inspire people to do what makes them happy.
To learn more about Craftsbymaddy follow us on our Facebook and instagram page Craftsbymaddy. To purchase my items visit my Etsy shop Craftsbymaddyshop.
Thank you for reading!!.
Maddy
Barn Farm Plants, Wardington, A Curated Country Garden Experience
Set within the gentle countryside of Wardington, Barn Farm Plants presents itself as a long-established, family-run garden centre where horticultural knowledge and warm hospitality have been cultivated for over 25 years. Led by Mark, Deborah, and their dedicated team, the nursery is defined by its open, welcoming atmosphere and a genuine commitment to sharing expertise through regular workshops, demonstrations, and thoughtful, honest advice.
Across its extensive plant area, visitors discover a carefully curated selection of seasonal bedding plants, all grown on site with exceptional care, alongside hardy perennials, cottage garden favourites, and a wide-ranging collection of shrubs and seasonal colour designed to inspire year-round planting.
Complementing the living collection is an equally comprehensive assortment of garden essentials, from composts, feeds, and insecticides to tools, decorative aggregates, pots, and practical sundries; ensuring every aspect of the gardening journey is supported in one place.
Barn Farm Plants is also known for its considered approach to garden design inspiration, offering garden furniture, arches, arbours, water features, and solar lighting that allow outdoor spaces to be shaped with character and atmosphere. Ample on-site parking and an adjoining antiques centre further enhance the sense of discovery, making it an inviting destination for a leisurely visit.
At the heart of the experience sits The Greenhouse Café, a relaxed and stylish retreat serving freshly prepared food from a vibrant daily menu. Homemade cakes, gluten-free and vegan options, and weekly specials are complemented by a selection of light meals for children, including playful lunchboxes and creative activities. Fully licensed, the café offers the option to enjoy a glass of wine or beer, whether seated indoors in comfortable surroundings or outdoors within the garden centre itself. Complimentary Wi-Fi adds to the ease of a lingering visit.
Ideally positioned along the Jurassic Way and popular with walkers and cyclists, Barn Farm Plants blends horticultural expertise with countryside charm. Whether planting a new border, filling seasonal gaps, or simply seeking inspiration, it remains a destination where quality, care, and creativity come together to enrich every garden.
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