Market research—over a glass of wine

Some of the best ideas happen when you’re relaxed. And tonight was no exception.

Earlier in the day, I’d visited Jane Blease at Manchester Craft Village to buy a couple of gifts. (Jane has a remarkable skill in woodwork and sewing—she’s previously designed a fabulous lampshade for my lounge).

And whilst browsing her wares, it occurred that we could take our bookmarks to the next level.

Why settle for satisfactory, when you can have good or excellent?

Rather than digital print in black and white, guillotined. Why not work with Jane to produce a limited edition range of Twelve Scholars bookmarks, out of a wood veneer and cotton.

But do we go for walnut or oak? And yellow or black cotton?

Well, I tested the options with a good friend mine. We did a spot of market research at a trendy wine bar in Ancoats, Manchester. (Hey, it was our annual birthday dinner).

Which one did the prefer?

Watch this space!