A SINGLE mum-of-three has overcome the traumatic death of her partner to launch her own business selling what’s becoming a growing trend.
Gemma Yates, from Droylsden, quit her supermarket job to focus on her new venture.
Based at Eden Studio on Old Street in Ashton-under-Lyne, ‘Hello Sunshine’ offers permanent jewellery services – which is already huge in America and on TikTok currently.
Gemma lost her partner Callum Steadman on his 28th birthday in a hit-and-run incident on December 1, 2017, whilst she was pregnant with her third child.
Through resilience and determination, the 41-year-old’s attention has since been on “building a secure and successful future for my boys” – 15-year-old Harvey, 13-year-old Harrison and six-year-old Callum-Junior.
Starting the business has been a key part of that journey, having left her job at Asda, where she had been for 20 years, as it was becoming challenging to juggle her hours around being a mum.
Gemma claimed Universal Credit for a period before setting up ‘Hello Sunshine’ in March this year – as she wanted to create something positive and uplifting, both for herself and others
“After going through difficult times, I found strength and healing in building a business that could bring joy and a little sparkle into people’s lives,” Gemma told the Correspondent.
“Hello Sunshine is more than just a business, it’s a way to connect, to celebrate special moments and to spread a little light.
“The business name is special to me – it’s something that a passing relative used to greet me with. It used to always put a smile on my face and I thought the name would be the perfect fit as it reflects my goals of spreading brightness.”
Gemma believes the growing trend of permanent jewellery is becoming a popular choice for those looking for something meaningful and long-lasting.
“It’s a choice of chain – being sterling silver or 14k filled gold – that’s custom fit to your wrist to make a bracelet,” she said.
“It’s welded together, making it claspless and permanently on your wrist. This type of jewellery is popular for its sentimental value as it symbolises bonds, memories or milestones, making it perfect for special occasions or something to have done together with your best friend, partner or family member.
“Permanent jewellery is unique because it’s truly personalised and designed to stay with you as a constant, meaningful accessory.
“My mission is to create more than just jewellery – I want each piece to be a symbol of strength, resilience and love, and a reminder that no matter what life throws our way, we have the power to rise above it.”
Through her business, Gemma tries to support causes close to her heart too – such as Frankie and Neeve’s Road Safety Academy.
“It focuses on early years learning about road safety,” she explained. “They utilise cutting-edge technology, specifically Virtual Reality, to engage students in immersive experiences that realistically demonstrate the consequences of dangerous driving.
“This innovative approach aims to make a lasting impact on young minds, instilling a sense of responsibility and caution when it comes to road safety.”
Gemma hopes to inspire others by sharing her story, and hopefully encourage those who may relate to her journey.
“Sharing my story is important to me as I hope it can offer some comfort or inspiration to others who may be facing their own challenges,” she added.
“I hope that, through my work, I can inspire others to find their own strength and believe in their ability to overcome challenges – just like I did.
“If my story touches even one heart or helps someone feel a little less alone, I know I’m on the right path.”
She recently added memory charms to her collection, made with ashes from loved ones that have passed away – something that is meaningful to her.
To find out more about Gemma’s business, visit https://hellosunshinepj.co.uk/ or find ‘Hello Sunshine’ on Facebook and Instagram.