A new North Staffordshire business is bringing affordable, faith-inspired gifts to the high street with the launch of a permanent stall at Longton Victorian Market.
Hopes and Favours, run by Jes Hope, started life online earlier this year and is now preparing to open at the market on Friday, 26 September after a successful pop-up.
The business sources home décor and seasonal gifts, and every item comes with a card with a QR code that leads to a piece of scripture or encouragement, which Jes hopes will brighten people’s day. Future plans include expanding into event favours for weddings, engagements, christenings and baby showers.
Jes, who previously worked at the University of Staffordshire, said: “After rediscovering my faith, I felt a strong calling to share God’s word in a way that felt meaningful and approachable. I’ve always had a gift for putting together thoughtful, heartfelt gifts that people appreciate and enjoy, and that’s when the idea for this business was born.
“What makes Hopes and Favours a bit different is that it’s not just about the gift itself, but the meaning behind it. Every item includes a card with a QR code so it’s a simple way to share encouragement and faith in everyday life. I also work hard to keep everything affordable, because I believe thoughtful gifts and event favours shouldn’t cost the earth.”
Currently run by Jes alone, the business has already received support from family and friends, with her boyfriend encouraging her to take the leap into self-employment. She hopes to expand in the future and eventually create jobs for others.
As well as running her own venture, Jes is keen to support other small businesses by stocking and promoting their products. She is already partnering with an artist, a bag maker, a resin artist and a jewellery creator, and is currently on the lookout for someone who makes wax melts and candles.
She said: “Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy. If we work together, we can create more choice for customers while also helping each other get seen.
“By planning to stock and promote products from other local makers, Hopes and Favours could become more than just a gift business; it could grow into a small network that helps others thrive too. In a time when supporting local has never been more important, this collaborative spirit could help boost the area’s economy while giving shoppers more variety and choice.”
Hopes and Favours will be open in Longton Victorian Market on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
- Also opening soon in the same location is Dills Cakery, opening on Saturday, 13 September, and a second branch of Butterflies Wonderland, which will operate alongside its Newcastle venue. The Longton store, which will launch on Wednesday, 17 September, will offer craft supplies, paint a pot, giftware and children’s activities and events, and be open on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
- Daily Focus reported yesterday that a £1.9 million investment is earmarked to improve Longton’s town centre. Read more here.
