Q&A with New Forest Shortbread
Q. Hello! Please give us a brief introduction to your business and the products you offer.
We make a variety of flavoured artisan shortbread, handmade in the heart of the New Forest. Each batch is lovingly crafted and sealed in recyclable bags and biodegradable boxes. Every box is adorned with beautiful images of the stunning New Forest. Perfect doorstep gifts, wedding favours, hamper fillers or thank you gestures.
We are the gold winners of the 2023 Great British Food Awards. In last year’s Guild of Fine Food Great Taste Awards we were awarded two stars for our Rosemary flavour and one star for our Earl Grey flavour. In 2022 we received a star for our All Butter Original New Forest Shortbread.
Q. How long have you been going and how did the business come about?
I have made shortbread for family and friends for more than 50 years. In 2015 I decided to start offering my melt in the mouth shortbread to people visiting the New Forest.
Q. What's your favourite thing about what you do?
Working with a team of women in the heart of the New Forest.
Q. What's your least favourite thing?
Admin!
Q. When you're working but not at events, what does a typical day look like?
Mixing dough, handcrafting our shortbread and packing up orders!
Q. What do you like about trading at markets?
I love meeting people and introducing our products to new customers.
Q. Do you have a favourite product?
My old favourite is our all butter original traditional shortbread, made just like Nana used to. It's won several awards....
Q. Where do you get your inspiration?
I am inspired by the beauty of nature all around us everyday.
Q. Finally, what do you enjoy getting up to when you're not working?
Long forest walks with the dogs, riding our pony. Eating out with family and friends.
(You will be able to purchase New Forest Shortbread at our market on 29th June)