At Harriet’s of Hove, we love celebrating local makers who bring their values and creativity to life through sustainable products. This week, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on Sophie Bresnahan, the inspiring founder of Loop Loop, a business that transforms recycled materials into beautiful, functional, and meaningful creations.
A Blooming Beginning
Sophie’s journey began with a simple yet magical idea: creating plantable cards that could grow into wildflowers. She explains, “Cards that turn into flowers seemed like the most magical material I had ever seen. I had to make something with it!” What started as a passion project has since grown into a range of sustainable goods, including her debut children’s book, The Mouse and the Mushroom Blooms.
Inspired by nature and its infinite creativity, Sophie combines art, sustainability, and storytelling in a way that’s entirely unique. “Nature has always been a huge source of inspiration,” Sophie shares, adding that her products aim to make a difference while celebrating the natural world.
Sustainable at Every Step
Every Loop Loop product is crafted with the environment in mind. Sophie works with papermakers who use recycled post-consumer waste, turning what would have been discarded into something beautiful and useful.
She hand-paints original watercolour illustrations, which are then printed onto this eco-friendly paper, including lokta paper and recycled card. Even her children’s book is printed on paper sourced from sustainably managed forests, ensuring that every step of the process aligns with her values.
Sophie’s favourite part of the process? “Painting the original illustrations,” she says, reflecting on the joy she finds in the creative journey.
A Perfect Partnership
Like many great stories, Sophie’s partnership with Harriet’s of Hove began with determination. Initially, Harriet wasn’t sure the cards were the right fit for the shop, but Sophie insisted on meeting in person. “I was sure she would like them if she saw them—and thankfully, she did,” Sophie recalls.
This partnership has blossomed, with Loop Loop products now sitting proudly on Harriet’s shelves. Harriet’s mission to hold products to the highest ethical standards and support local makers resonates deeply with Sophie.
What Makes Loop Loop Special
Whether it’s a plantable card or a storybook set in the fungi kingdom, Sophie’s creations are designed to spark joy and connection with nature. She hopes customers will not only enjoy the vibrant designs but also experience the magic of growing wildflowers or delving into the world of mushrooms through her book.
Sophie is also passionate about the circular economy, waste reduction, and biodiversity. “Growing wildflowers, mushroom cultivation, and tree planting are causes that truly resonate with me,” she shares.
Looking Ahead
As Loop Loop continues to grow, Sophie is already planning her next creative endeavour—a book about the moon. “Watch this space!” she teases, hinting at the exciting projects on the horizon.
Advice for Aspiring Makers
For those dreaming of starting their own sustainable business, Sophie shares her wisdom: “I like thinking of the Ikigai method—what do you love doing, what are you good at, and what does the world need? In the middle of these three things is your Ikigai.”
Sophie’s story is a testament to the magic that happens when creativity and sustainability come together. From plantable cards to enchanting storybooks, Loop Loop brings joy and inspiration to every corner it touches.