From personalised embroidery to a lifelong love of fashion, we get to know Hannah Hill, founder and creative director of Pearl Hill.
With a passion for fashion and a love of creating something special, Hannah Hill is the creative force behind Pearl Hill, a personalised embroidery business offering everything from bespoke clothing to makeup bags and accessories.
We caught up with the Newcastle-based founder to talk about building her business, life with her beloved dog Pearl and the little luxuries she treasures most.
Name
Hannah Hill
Job title
Founder & Creative Director of Pearl Hill.
Where is home?
Callerton, Newcastle upon Tyne
Three reasons you love where you live?
The nature, being close to family and having everything within easy reach. We’re surrounded by fields and wildlife, and I often spot foxes, deer and pheasants from my bedroom window.
My parents live at the bottom of our street, so being able to walk our dogs together every day is something I’m really grateful for.
Plus, we’re just 15 minutes from Newcastle city centre, 10 minutes from the Metrocentre and 20 minutes from Corbridge. It’s the perfect balance.
What do you do for a living?
I’m the founder and creative director of Pearl Hill Embroidery, which I named after my Welsh Terrier, Pearl, and my love of pearl jewellery.
I create affordable, personalised pieces alongside bespoke embroidery for businesses, weddings and special occasions.
From clothing to makeup bags and tote bags, customers can choose their own fonts, thread colours and even have their pets embroidered.
I love creating pieces that feel personal and can be treasured for years.
A day in the life of you?
Every morning starts with a walk with Pearl and a podcast. Then it’s time for a to-do list to organise my priorities.
I embroider every order myself, so there’s always plenty to do. From choosing threads and preparing designs to packing orders, planning social content and replying to messages, no two days are quite the same.
Running a small business is a constant balancing act, but I wouldn’t change it. Seeing someone’s personalised order come to life is such a lovely feeling.
Any recent, ongoing or upcoming projects or achievements we should know about?
I’m working on a pet collection that I hope to launch in the new year. I’d also love to introduce more products for babies and children.
One of the things I love about embroidery is how many directions the business can grow.
I’d also love to host a pop-up in Newcastle next year. There are so many ideas I’m excited to explore!
What does downtime mean to you?
Spending time with my husband and Pearl. They’re my happiest, calmest place.
I love our walks, good food and a cosy night watching TV. Sex and the City will always be my comfort show!
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I’ve wanted to work in fashion for as long as I can remember. My mum used to take me to Fenwick’s toy department, where I’d choose Project Runway sketchbooks and spend hours drawing my dream dresses.
I studied textiles at school and won an award for my sketchbook and designs. That encouraged me to study fashion at university.
I graduated with first-class honours while dealing with health challenges. It’s something I’m incredibly proud of.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Life is too short to worry about what other people think.
I experienced bullying at school, and for years I worried about people’s opinions.
Starting my own business felt terrifying, but I’ve realised people will always have something to say. You might as well follow your dreams anyway.
What is your greatest fear?
Allowing my anxiety and health challenges to hold me back.
I’ve struggled with both for a long time, but I’m working hard to push myself beyond those fears. I don’t want to look back with regrets.
Which living person do you most admire and why?
I’m going to be naughty and choose three!
My husband, for his positivity, calm nature and incredible work ethic.
My mum, for always putting our family first, and my dad, for working so hard to give us the best life possible.
What is top of your bucket list?
Tokyo! I’m fascinated by the culture, cherry blossom trees, matcha and vintage shops. I think it would be an unforgettable trip.
What is your most treasured possession?
My Burberry bag, which my auntie in Australia gave me when I was 16.
It belonged to her, which makes it incredibly special. I’ve taken it all over the world and still wear it constantly.
What does the weekend mean to you?
Good food, matcha and long walks with my husband and Pearl. Anything we do together makes me happy.
A memorable holiday?
My first Christmas in Australia. It was my first long-haul flight, and spending Christmas Day on the beach in a bikini and Santa hat felt surreal.
Seeing kangaroos, koalas and one of the world’s deadliest snakes in the Outback was unforgettable too!
Best dress?
My peach silk Sportmax maxi dress from Fenwick, covered in a beautiful gemstone print. I wore it in Paris when I got engaged.
There was only one left in my size when I found it. I actually squealed! It was clearly meant to be.
Who would be your top-three dinner guests?
Taylor Swift, because I’m the biggest Swiftie.
Sarah Jessica Parker, because I’d love to hear all about her wardrobe, and Mary Berry. I’d happily spend hours having tea and cake with her!
The last place you ate?
Fratelli in Ponteland, our favourite local Italian.
The last book you read?
Don’t Believe the Hype by Natalie Lewis. It’s about a girl working in fashion PR in London. If you love The Devil Wears Prada, you’ll enjoy it.
The last thing you listened to?
Rochelle Humes Ladies Who Launch podcast. The latest episode I listened to featured Sophia and Cinzia talking about building The Girls Bathroom.
The last thing you watched?
The Celebrity Traitors. I’d never watched it before, but now I’m hooked!
Your three luxe things in life?
Good health, my husband, who’s my best friend, and my family. Especially when we’re enjoying good food and listening to great music.
