It started with a stitch...
I am inspired by the creation of treasured pieces that reflect a time when handmade items were created for both utility and beauty.
I was first taught embroidery from a young age by my Grandmother, Thelma, who was well known on the Darling Downs for her needlework skills and decades dedicated to the Queensland Country Women's Association and the Toowoomba Branch of the Embroiderers' Guild Qld. She taught me how important it is to put care and attention into anything you created, no matter how long it took.
I officially launched Lyssy May as an accessories label in 2003 (after returning from living in London with a suitcase full of vintage fabrics), but my journey to connect with customers really began with my first market stall at the Queens Park Markets in Toowoomba in the mid-90s. I ran my 'Country Pumpkin' stall whilst at University studying Business and loved every minute of it. Back then the country craft scene was huge and I was stenciling hearts and farm animals and using raffia on anything that could take it!
Lyssy May started with more markets and in home parties (in partnership with jewellery designer, Celina Lee) and soon after that I established a retail store in Morningside, Brisbane and also wholesaled to stockists across Australia. In 2008 I then relocated to Melbourne and set up my design space at Ironside Studios in Kensington where I loved being part of a creative community.
After a pause to focus on mixing motherhood with my corporate career, I am now back in Queensland and have decided Lyssy May is a force in my life that I can't let go. I've dusted off my sewing machine and delved into my fabric and trim collections to reconnect with my community of customers who appreciate the time, effort and love that are woven into handmade products.
I also love that through selling my designs my customers are helping to support Dolly's Dream - a charity that is really close to my heart.
Alyssa - Lyssy May x