We Brits love talking about the weather and yesterday's weather was pretty awful. Gone were the glorious sun, the long shadows and the crisp air. In their place were grey skies, pouring rain and wild winds. But then in the evening a beautiful rainbow shone through the clouds, almost as if it was a thank you for putting up with the miserable weather.
I love rainbows, the sense of hope they bring and the vibrant colour. I know many of my lovely customers love a rainbow too. I’m lucky that when I’m exhibiting at craft fayres, people will often share the reason for their love of rainbows with me.
Lots of customers buy rainbows for themselves or for loved ones as a symbol of Pride. The different colours have come to reflect both the immense diversity and the unity of the LGBTQ+ community, whether worn on a piece of jewellery:
displayed as a flag:
or having a practical purpose:
For many customers their focus is on the rainbow as a symbol of remembrance for beloved pets who have crossed over the rainbow bridge.
Charities often use the rainbow, or rainbow colours, as part of their logo. It is especially true of children’s charities, perhaps because of the joy and uplifting hope that rainbows bring.
This blog's title "be a rainbow in someone's cloud" comes from a quote by Maya Angelou - a diarist, poet, writer, performer, composer, teacher and civil rights activist. She talked about how the kindnesses we receive from others can carry us through the harder times in our lives:
I’m sure there are many other reasons why my customers love a rainbow. I’d love you to let me know your reasons… or to suggest what rainbow design I should create next. Please get in touch!