Loose Women star Andrea McLean captivated by Simply Mourne

Loose Women host Andrea McLean has delighted Simply Mourne owner Catherine Bradford after her nature-inspired creations caught the eye of the celebrity journalist. Her pebble art pictures now feature on Andrea McLean’s online marketplace This Girl Is On Fire (TGIOF).  The online shop was set up to help women showcase their talents and sell their products and services.

"I'm absolutely delighted that Simply Mourne products are now available on the This Girl Is On Fire website,"  commented Catherine who runs the business from her art studio at her Katesbridge home.  "2020 has been a hard year for many small businesses but the endorsement from Andrea McLean is definitely a positive shot in the arm for my business."

Catherine's inspiration for her products comes from nature and especially the stunning Mourne Mountains which she can see from her Co Down studio. It's a far cry from the Loose Women TV set but Andrea McLean was very impressed with the work of the Irish artist when she discovered it.

Supporting female entrepreneurs

“I’m passionate about supporting all women, especially those trying to build a business for themselves in these difficult times," explained Andrea who has been hosting Loose Women since 2008.  "I understand just how hard and lonely it can be for female entrepreneurs and that is why I have created the TGIOF marketplace.  It is the perfect place for businesses like Simply Mourne to showcase their talents to a wider audience. A personal favourite of mine is the Love Birds pebble art picture."

So how did this come about?  Well in September 2020, Catherine had spotted a social media post from Andrea McLean where she was asking female business owners to get in touch about the TGIOF marketplace.  Nothing ventured, nothing gained so Catherine made the bold step of responding to the appeal and was very shocked when Andrea replied.  A sample Simply Mournes pebble art picture was soon on the way to Andrea and this was quickly followed by an invitation to join the TGIOF marketplace.

Icing on the cake for Simply Mourne

"Prior to the first coronavirus lockdown, 95% of my products were sold in gift shops across Ireland" continued Catherine. "The first lockdown caused a temporary closure of these outlets so I was forced to look for alternative routes to market. I set up my online website to sell directly to customers in May 2020 which has made a huge difference to my business.  But to have my work available to Andrea McLean's huge audience is the icing on the cake for Simply Mourne.  I am so appreciative to have her support especially at these hard times."