If you know of or are a business that goes above and beyond, or has a great story to tell, we want to hear from you, and celebrate our local traders and producers. You can let us know via our Q&A here or email claire.pierce@newsquest.co.uk for more details.

ROSEWOOD CRAFTS, Rhes-y-cae, Flintshire

I have probably shopped more online in the last 12 months, than the previous five years combined.

But far from just heading straight to the big brands, I looked closer to home for solutions to birthdays, Christmas and special occasions. And I unearthed some absolute gems.

From food and drink, to bespoke crafts and jewellery, we have a wealth of quality and talent on our doorstep.

One trader to pop onto my radar recently via the wonderful Made In Cymru website – "unique gifts, handmade in Wales" – was Rosie Robertson, the creative heart of Rosewood Crafts.

The business began 20 years ago when Rosie was living in Snowdonia but is now run from the family home in Flintshire.

We find out more…

What does the business do/make/sell?

"Rosewood Crafts makes and sells hand painted glass vases, tealights and pictures, alongside stained glass decorations for the home.

"We cover a wide range of styles and designs, mostly inspired by nature - hares, squirrels, flowers and bees, beach huts, boats and mountains to name just a few.

"The majority of our items can be personalised and are made to compliment a large range of colour schemes."

Rosie getting creative in The Shire.

What is your most memorable or proudest moment in business?

"I think my most memorable moment was the first professionally organised craft fair I attended with my dad Richard in about 2003 at Bodnant Gardens.

"We shared the cost of a table selling my glassware and his wonderful handmade wooden toys.

"This is where the name Rosewood Crafts was born. My name being Rosie and dad making things out of wood. Special memories indeed.

"The profits from all of dad's sales went to various charities - Macmillan, Alzheimer's Society, Claire House Hospice and more.

"My proudest moment was moving from two work tables in my conservatory into my own garden workshop, fondly named 'The Shire' .

"As a Tolkien fan I have always wanted to say 'I am off to The Shire for the day' and my wish came true!"

Handmade items from Rosewood Crafts, this one featuring Moel Famau.

Any strange requests or stories from customers?

"I think my strangest request was to paint a pea pod with two peas inside. It was a gift to be given to the customer's friend with whom she said they were like 'two peas in a pod'.

"I have so many stories from customers which I have been both privileged and humbled to be a part of.

"Candle holders are a popular gift to be given in memory of loved ones lost, and robin themed gifts too reminding people of a loved one.

"Golden wedding gifts and special birthday gifts always come with a story too.

"The Shire has been home to laughter and tears. My husband Neil makes a boat styled on the Galway hooker a traditional Irish fishing vessel. I will leave you to imagine the tales that provokes!"

Anything else we should know?

"My dad began making beautiful stained glass angels alongside his wooden toys.

"They were a huge hit and he couldn't make them quick enough. Shortly before being taken ill he passed on the knowledge of making these to my husband.

"When dad passed away, Neil continued to make them in his memory and always for charity.

"Upon his retirement, Neil expanded his range of stained glass skills and decorations and now there is no stopping him.

"Rosewood crafts continues to be a real family business, even my son has contributed some original Celtic knot designs.

"The first business to sell our work was Theatr Clwyd gift shop. Now you will find our work at Loggerheads gift shop, Woodlands Garden Centre, in Mold, Afonwen Craft and Antique Centre, Shaz's Shabby Chic, Buckley and Slate and Things in Caernarfon.

"Hopefully we will see people at a craft fair one day too before long but you can also purchase items through our own Facebook page - Rosewood Crafts - and the Made in Cymru website."

There's something very 'feel good' about supporting local or independent business, and it's a shopping habit, online or otherwise, that I hope will stay with us long after the pandemic.

It's a win win for any community. And if you get to own or give something a little bit special, that's never a bad thing.

• Rosewood Crafts

Rhes-y-cae

Flintshire

CH88JG

Tel: 07563372440

Facebook: Rosewood Crafts