Making Moments Personal – One Thoughtful Gift at a Time
Our Story: A Journey of Purpose and Perspective
Make It Personal Gift Co grew from a life of big roles, big changes, and a deep appreciation for the moments that define us. My professional background was as a National Merchandising Manager, handling the fast paced world of large scale retail. On the side, I ran Unparalleled Jewellery. It was during this time that I purchased a Silhouette machine, driven by a desire to make the gift industry more ethical. I wanted to move away from bulky, disposable boxes and instead created branded jewellery cards and pouches that were environmentally friendly and meant to be kept.
The Heart of Our Family
My greatest achievement is my family. In 2020, my partner and I grew our family through fostering, welcoming three children who are my world. In 2023, our youngest joined us. I am now the proud dad of four amazing kids: a 17 year old girl, a 12 year old boy who navigates life with autism, ADHD, and a mild intellectual disability, a 6 year old boy, and a sassy 2 year old girl.
These are my kids, and being their dad is my most important job. Our life involves a lot of juggling, from speech and occupational therapy sessions to soccer training and dance classes. Our family has taught me that families are unique and come in all shapes and sizes. It is this understanding of family that makes me so passionate about creating gifts for yours.
Perspective Through Adversity
In November 2024, my world was shaken when I was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS). At the time, I feared I was having a stroke, a moment that shook me to my core. While it left me with slight facial paralysis on the left side of my face, which is why you will not often see me in front of the camera, the real impact was on my perspective.
This experience was a powerful lesson that we must enjoy every single moment. It reinforced that family means everything. I am not a victim of this journey: I am proud of it. I believe things happen for a reason, and this challenge only deepened my commitment to celebrating life while we have the chance.
The Inspiration Behind the Keepsake
The drive to create meaningful gifts actually started long before the business did. As a child, I lost my mum. Among the belongings she left to me was a key that had been given to her as an 18th birthday gift. That key is more than just an object: it is a connection to her and a reminder of a milestone in her life. This is the true inspiration behind what I do. I understand the power of a keepsake and how a personalised gift can hold a person's story for a lifetime.
My Happy Place
In February 2026, I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 44. This was a moment of clarity that made sense of my life and my work. It explained my ability to hyper focus on my business, turning it into my "happy place." Whether I am working from a therapy waiting room or my laptop is open at a dance studio, I am in my element.
Today, Make It Personal Gift Co is more than just a shop. It is a place where I get to share in your excitement, your love, and your joy. I get the same buzz today that I did when I started, knowing that I am helping you celebrate the people who matter most. Every bespoke item we create is a way to honour the unique journeys we all walk, made with the perspective that every moment is precious.
