Words: Tivania Moodley | Images: Supplied
Chantelle Walton loves the idea of ultra-precise wooden decor carved to perfection. She established her business, Smokey Jack Designs, to give clients personalised and unique products for their home or special occasions. She tells us more about her business, based in Glen Anil.
How did your business start?
In 2015, I had an idea to create wood-based designs and offer authentic and earthy products with a unique feel to them. I experimented with laser cutting and engraving, CNC routing and good-old-fashioned furniture assemblage with a fresh look and feel, and the business grew from that.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
Glen Anil has been home for the last five years and I wanted to start the business by servicing this area first.
How did you find your premises?
I’ve been lucky enough to have enough space to work from home.
Why are they ideally suited to your business?
Being an outdoor business, I run it from home and have suppliers and clients based on the Dolphin Coast and locally. It’s all organised not to take up too much space in my home. If need be, I store plants and/or wood outside for short periods of time. I have a small area in my home which I use as an office for all the design work.
Who are your neighbours?
Residents who have become clients.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
I have no idea what the rental prices are like because I haven’t needed to look into a permanent base of operations yet, but I hope to expand as the business grows.
How many people visit your business each day?
I have many product enquiries daily, but the actual number of orders varies from one to five because I tend to do orders for special occasions or cater for clients looking for a décor statement piece for their home or office. People then often become repeat clients.
Do you have any expansion plans?
I’d love to set up a studio in the future that showcases the designs, where clients can feel comfortable spending time while we brainstorm to create customised products.
Do you operate online as well?
I have a Facebook page and an Instagram account that showcase all the designs.
What’s your most popular item?
I would have to say that the wood-covered photo albums are getting the most interest. They are a unique concept and customised for each wedding or individual.
For more information on Smokey Jack Designs, phone 082 610 5608 or visit the Facebook page.
