Getting to Know Bristol Blue Glass
Posted on: 26 Nov 2015Bristol Blue Glass is an institution in the city. It is something we can be rightly proud of. Their work is world-renowned thanks to the expert craftsmanship that goes into each and every piece.
The tradition and craft of making blue glass in the city dates back to the eighteenth century. Unfortunately, the art fell out of favour during the middle of the twentieth century but, thanks to Bristol Blue Glass Ltd, it has made a comeback and is now more popular and recognizable than ever.
We spoke to Sharon Crapanzano to find out more about this excellent Bristol company…
When was Bristol Blue Glass set up and can you give us a brief history?
Bristol Blue Glass was set up in 1988 and you can see a blog from the owner, James Adlington on our website. This gives his version of events and why he wanted to bring Bristol Blue Glass back.
Are you from Bristol?
I am and so is the owner James (James is in fact my cousin).
How's business?
Fantastic but we always strive to make it better, who doesn't?
You have got 2 showrooms in Bristol, what's the difference between your HQ on Bath Road and Phoenix Glass in Bristol City Centre?
Our Bath Road premises, we blow all the glass downstairs in the studio and have our very own glass engraver onsite, as well as jewellery designer/maker. Our hot floor is open to the public and our shop is open every day. Also, we have frequent group visits, glass blowing courses and bauble blowing etc. Everything is made here. Phoenix is a new shop (owned by Bristol Blue Glass) and selling exactly the same as Bath Road but also showcasing local artisans, more art glass and lots of other hand made items. Phoenix Glass Gallery is in a fantastic little spot next to St Nicholas Market and Corn Street - for those who are in and around central Bristol (whether living, working or visiting) it's a perfect location.
Bristol Blue Glass is a great attraction for both residents of and visitors to Bristol. Aside from perusing your wonderful pieces and shopping can you tell us a bit about the courses and corporate events you run?
We have in house corporate events for our customers (having a huge business/corporate/wholesale customer network) we like to have them in as much as possible to interact with staff and watch items being made, even blow glass. We also have various groups in, schools, WI, Rotary Clubs, Colleges, tourists and locals - they either have the talk/demo or blow baubles.. or both. We also have team building events, though don't promote as much - something we should do. We offer various glass blowing courses and these are also extremely popular. Bauble blowing is the favourite and a very special, yet affordable way to make and keep your own very unique piece of Bristol Blue Glass.
Where do you like to eat out in Bristol?
Everywhere!! Regularly Somerset House, Clifton or The Glass Boat on a sunny day.
What's your favourite place in Bristol?
Clifton Village and the downs for a picnic.
Where do you see Bristol Blue Glass in 5 years time?
Hopefully more shops and exporting perhaps - remembering to always focus on our valued locals/businesses.
What advice would you give to Bristol business owners about attracting customers?
Look after what you have, keep it local, communicate and never take anything for granted.
If you were Mayor of Bristol for a day which one thing would you change?
Traffic - I'd arrange a meeting with the owner of First Bus. I have many things to discuss on behalf of many locals!
For further info on Bristol Blue Glass please go to www.bristol-glass.co.uk
Article by:
Born and raised in the suburbs of Swansea, Jimmy moved to Bristol back in 2004 to attend university. Passionate about live music, sport, science and nature, he can usually be found walking his cocker spaniel Baxter at any number of green spots around the city. Call James on 078 9999 3534 or email Editor@365Bristol.com.
