Meet the Maker – Astrid of Empressive Headwear

Astrid’s passion for creating headdresses was born of a love of extravagant dressing up. After making a number of headdresses for herself the idea for her small business was born! Astrid gives us a glimpse into working creatively in Bristol, and some of her favourite places there.


Tell us a bit about yourself, where you live and what you create?

My name is Astrid, I live in Bristol and make bespoke and comfortable headwear for any occasion. Exploring what I can adorn heads with is such a passion for me. I love to be challenged and think outside the box to fulfil bespoke orders and my customers’ dream pieces. Comfort is at the heart of what I create because you cannot feel fabulous if you’re uncomfortable.



What do you love most about living and working in Bristol?

Bristol is such an unbelievably vibrant and creative place. I’m constantly inspired by the street art dedication to small businesses. The kindness and inclusivity of many of the people that live here can be felt everywhere and there are a huge amount of grassroots music venues that I love going to for gigs.


Are there any local spots (shops, cafés, parks) that you’d recommend people visit and why?

I highly recommend small independent shops like:

That Thing in Stokes Croft

Bam Store + Space in Easton for a range of independent designers.

Molii Studio in Fishponds.

Bristol Fine Art for art supplies.

Wapping Wharf for a range of restaurants and small businesses.

and any of The Crafty Egg Cafes for great food and drinks.

One of my favourite gig venues is the Exchange in Old Market.



How important is your community to your work, and where do you usually meet with other creatives? How has connecting with your community helped you as a maker?

As an independent designer it’s so important to have a community of likeminded makers. I often meet other designers at their studios or in cafes and it’s so important to have this community for support and inspiration. Being able to talk over ideas and talk to others about their journeys as creatives creates a real safe space and I think I’d feel quite lost without these inspiring humans in my life.


What local events or markets do you love to participate in or visit and why?

The Tobacco Factory Sunday Market is a firm favourite. It’s always such a friendly and welcoming event with a range of handmade goods and incredible food.



Find Empressive Headwear on our very own Makers Marketplace

Makers Marketplace – Empressive Headwear


Author: Mandy Stephens

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