Laura Johnson, co-founder of Crafty Vintage shares story of growth

By Crafty Vintage

15 Jan 2025

LJ1.jpg.jpg

Crafty Vintage has become synonymous with supporting makers, creators, and artisans across Lancashire, transforming local talent into success stories.

Laura Johnson, co-founder of Crafty Vintage, shares the journey from humble beginnings in a Whalley Church Hall to creating a platform inspired by global experiences and cultural revolutions.

Crafty Vintage has grown into a celebrated name in Lancashire. Can you tell us how it all started?

Laura Johnson: It’s hard to believe it’s been over a decade! Our very first Crafty Vintage event was held in a small Church Hall in Whalley. Back then, we didn’t know where the journey would take us, but we were determined to create something special.

The idea was really a fusion of experiences. My son and co-founder, Dan, had been travelling in Australia and visited an artisan market at Bondi Beach. He was captivated by the laid-back atmosphere and the community of creators showcasing their work. It sparked an idea that he brought back to Lancashire.

We both had experience working on Portobello Road, which is such a vibrant melting pot of creativity and culture, and that inspired us too. Dan also spent time immersed in the hipster scene of Brooklyn, right at the heart of the original street food boom, where old UPS vans were transformed into food trucks. These experiences gave us the vision to combine street food, artisan makers, and a strong sense of community.

 How did your own background influence the ethos of Crafty Vintage?

Laura: I’ve always had a passion for creativity and cultural innovation. I ran a chain of fashion boutiques that were deeply connected to the early acid house scene. We weren’t just selling clothes; we became a hub for tickets to pioneering club nights that defined a generation. It was an incredible time—a cultural revolution that shaped so much of the 90s.

That experience taught me the value of supporting movements and being part of something bigger. It’s the same ethos that drives Crafty Vintage. We’re not just running markets; we’re creating spaces where people can connect, express themselves, and be part of a community that celebrates creativity.

Crafty Vintage draws on such a rich tapestry of influences. How has this shaped the experience you offer today?

Laura: Those early influences taught us the importance of authenticity and storytelling. Each Crafty Vintage event is designed to feel like more than just a market—it’s an experience. We blend artisan stalls with street food, live music, and a sense of celebration.

The community aspect is crucial too. Many of our makers and stallholders have told us how much they value being part of Crafty Vintage—not just for sales, but for the connections they make with other creators and customers. That’s the spirit we’ve carried forward from day one.

What do you think makes Crafty Vintage so successful in helping start-ups and makers thrive?

Laura: It’s the platform we offer and the ethos behind it. We want our events to be stepping stones for new businesses. Our makers get the chance to showcase their products to a supportive audience, gain confidence, and build momentum.

We’ve seen businesses that started with a single table at Crafty Vintage grow into nationally recognized brands. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we’ve played a part in their journey.

The maker and creator movement continues to grow. What’s next for Crafty Vintage?

Laura: We’re always evolving. For 2025, we’re expanding our calendar and adding new venues across Lancashire and beyond. We’re also launching workshops to help makers with marketing, branding, and scaling their businesses.

At the heart of it all, we want to keep building the community. We’re inspired by the success stories we’ve seen and can’t wait to welcome the next wave of talented creators.

You’ve clearly had an incredible journey. What advice would you give to aspiring makers and creators?

Laura: Just start. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Whether it’s one product or a full collection, get out there and showcase your work. Joining events like Crafty Vintage is a great way to test the waters, connect with others, and get feedback.

And don’t underestimate the power of community. So many of our stallholders have built lasting friendships and partnerships through Crafty Vintage. It’s a journey, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Finally, what’s been the most rewarding part of building Crafty Vintage?

Laura: Without a doubt, it’s seeing people succeed. Watching someone start out with a simple idea and grow it into a thriving business is what keeps us going. It’s not just about the events—it’s about creating opportunities, inspiring confidence, and championing creativity.

That first event in Whalley was small, but it was full of heart. Today, Crafty Vintage carries that same spirit, and we’re so proud to see how far we’ve come. If you’re a maker, creator, or dreamer, we’d love for you to join us in 2025. The next success story could be yours.

Crafty Vintage is now accepting applications for its 2025 events. To find out more or apply, visit craftyvintage.com.

Latest news

1

Three weekly domestic waste collection considered in plans Waste recycling Blackpool

Three weekly domestic waste collection considered in plans

01 Jul 2025

2

Graham Engineering confirms acquisition to a2e Industries Graham Engineering

Graham Engineering confirms acquisition to a2e Industries

01 Jul 2025

3

Training 2000 celebrate 'Good' rating by Ofsted Training 2000

Training 2000 celebrate 'Good' rating by Ofsted

01 Jul 2025

4

Fox Group acquires J Fisher and Sons Colin Fisher, Paul Fox CEO and Gary Fisher.

Fox Group acquires J Fisher and Sons

01 Jul 2025

5

Beever and Struthers strengthen leadership team with new partners Dean Curtis and Joe Diston

Beever and Struthers strengthen leadership team with new partners

01 Jul 2025

Background image for hub sign up block

LBV Hub

Leverage Lancashire Business View platforms

Post your news
Post your events
Post your offers
Build your network
Improve your SEO
Gain coverage in the magazine
Sign-up
Events
LBV123 July/August Launch Event
Lancashire Business View magazine launch
Networking
16 Jul 2025

LBV123 July/August Launch Event

Burnley

08:30 - 10:30

Lancashire Built Environment Conference 2025
BEC 315 X 315 Px
Networking
25 Sep 2025

Lancashire Built Environment Conference 2025

Blackpool Football Club, Blackpool, FY1 6HX

08:30 - 13:00

CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership Course
UCLanAerialCampus.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
21 Feb 2025 - 21 Feb 2026

CMI Level 5 Management and Leadership Course

Preston Campus, Preston , PR1 2HE

09:00 - 17:00

CMI Level 5 Project Management Course
UCLanAerialCampus.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
21 Feb 2025 - 21 Feb 2026

CMI Level 5 Project Management Course

Preston Campus, Preston, PR1 2HE

08:00 - 17:00

Chamber Breakfast Networking – July
Chamber Logo1.png.png
LBV Hub Networking
02 Jul 2025 - 02 Jul 2025

Chamber Breakfast Networking – July

St John's Hospice, Slyne Road, Lancaster, LA2 6ST

08:00 - 10:00

The Marketing Metrics that Matter – July 4
LBV Hub Seminars
04 Jul 2025 - 04 Jul 2025

The Marketing Metrics that Matter – July 4

Door4 Office, Burnley Wharf, Burnley, BB11 1JG

08:30 - 11:00

Tri-Site Survey Equipment Showcase
unnamed (2).jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Seminars
09 Jul 2025 - 09 Jul 2025

Tri-Site Survey Equipment Showcase

Crow Wood Hotel, Burnley, BB12 0RT

09:30 - 16:00

Chamber Summer BBQ
LBV Hub Social
17 Jul 2025 - 17 Jul 2025

Chamber Summer BBQ

The Borough, Dalton Square, Lancaster, LA1 1PP

17:30 - 20:00

Preston Tech Connection: Web3 is Dead. Or is It?
July Longer Banner.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Networking
29 Jul 2025 - 29 Jul 2025

Preston Tech Connection: Web3 is Dead. Or is It?

Society1, Coworking Space, Preston, PR1 3LT

18:00 - 19:30

Preston Freelancer Meet-Up: July
Longer July Banner.jpg.jpg
LBV Hub Networking
31 Jul 2025 - 31 Jul 2025

Preston Freelancer Meet-Up: July

Society1, Coworking Space, Preston, PR1 3LT

10:00 - 11:30

Cumbria Business Expo 2025
https---cdn.evbuc.com-images-880461633-4862066883-1-original.20241022-110415.jpeg.jpg
LBV Hub Exhibitions
19 Sep 2025 - 19 Sep 2025

Cumbria Business Expo 2025

Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle, CA2 4TS

09:00 - 15:00

North West Business Expo 2025
https---cdn.evbuc.com-images-880456273-4862066883-1-original.20241022-105445.jpeg.jpg
LBV Hub Exhibitions
24 Oct 2025 - 24 Oct 2025

North West Business Expo 2025

Bolton Stadium Hotel, Bolton, BL6 6SF

09:00 - 15:00

Advertise with us

Reaching 50,000 members, our print, digital and event platforms offer a fantastic way to raise your business profile and help you grow.

Find out more LBV122 Online Graphic
Subscribe now

Weekly news bulletin