Today, the Christmas lights went up! The local Deal and Walmer Chamber of Trade sponsors them, puts them up and maintains them all year, and this year we got to be part of the crew. Mini Maille was a little daunted at first but settled well into his role as ‘spotter’ (and very official) assistant.

It’s one of my favourite parts of the year, because I’m a big kid at heart and I love the lights. Also it’s a great community effort and community is a big part of who we are as a business, both locally and nationally. 

The Chamber of Trade...

Running a small business can be pretty isolating. Mr Maille and I may get on really well but there’s only so much shop talk a household can take. Getting together with other local business owners every couple of months is a real breath of fresh air. We share knowledge and recommendations, and socialise with people who ‘get it’.

The Chamber also works hard for the whole town: bunting for the summer tourist season, the Christmas lights, and more besides. It’s also opened doors for us to be involved with other local events. Mr Maille donned his apron to help prepare food for a charity fundraiser for Martha Trust, and we’ve donated prizes too.

This month, I’ll be also be auctioning off some bespoke items during my part of the November Magpie Market ( 27th - 28th November 2026), and all proceeds from sales will be donated to Martha Trust. 

The Magpie Market...

Speaking of the Magpie Market, that's another community we’re proud to be part of. I’ve been involved since its inception and have met so many talented business owners at all stages of their journeys. We support each other, and we’ve made friends along the way. Helping to run an online market has its challenges, but it also opens the door for people who find in-person events difficult - and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a bit of shopping in their PJs with snacks in the comfort of their own home?

Want to join us? Find the group here

Gather & Connect ...

As much as it’s lovely working alongside all of these amazing people, it’s also just as important to get together with others who work from home, often around families and other responsibilities. We have a chat over coffee, a bit of a rant about the trials of juggling everything, and sometimes we’re even sensible and share ideas.

So I’ve joined another local group, which hosts co-working sessions and Gather & Connect sessions (quite the social butterfly when it’s work related, aren’t I?). They’re caffeine fuelled and full of laughter, and sharpies. Lots and lots of sharpies.

You guys (The Fellow Ring Nerds)...

Of course, we also love our community of customers. I know that sounds cliché, but we really do.

A big chunk of that community is you lovely lot. Whether you’re a seasoned chainmailler, a jewellery maker adding a new string to your bow, or someone who has just discovered the joy of a pair of pliers and a bag of rings (I see you, and I was once you), you’re our people. It’s one of the best parts of what we do. I started out with a bag of rings and an online tutorial, so welcoming people at the start of their own chainmaille journey feels like coming full circle.

And, of course, those of you who buy our finished pieces have let us be part of your story too. We’ve been part of weddings, anniversaries and proposals, and we’ve been there through illness and grief when you’ve shared your stories with us. That really is a privilege, and it’s never taken lightly.

That’s why we created Wraithmaillers, our own Facebook group. It’s a place for everyone to share what they are working on, what they have made or even pieces they have been given or purchased. We want it to be an extension of our own little community and we'd love to see you there, you can join here.

If you’ve made something with our supplies, or worn something we’ve made to a big moment, I’d love to see it. Come and join us in the group and share your story.

From all of us at WraithMaille, a huge thank you!