Founder Spotlight: #FollowPeachyParrot

Meet Sarah Evans, founder of Peachy Parrot, a bold and playful homeware brand born from her creative spirit and determination to build something of her own. Originally from Dublin and now based in Haywards Heath, Sarah’s journey has taken her from acting and voiceover work to running a jewellery stall in Camden Market, and finally to creating her own vibrant business. Balancing life as a mother of three with her passion for design, Sarah is carving out a space for Peachy Parrot with resilience, creativity, and a “glass half full” attitude.

Describe yourself in six words or less
Positive, determined, independent, creative, resilient

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start it
I trained as an actor in Ireland (and still do the odd job), but after running a jewellery stall in Camden Market, I caught the bug for running my own business.

When I moved into a 60s-style home with my young family, I joked that the garage at the back of the house would one day become my “warehouse” for homewares I designed. Around that time, I was selling a lot on eBay, and that seed of an idea took root.

Tell us a little bit more about you
I’m married with three young boys aged 3, 7, and 9. I moved to London on my own and met my husband randomly on the street four years later (I almost gave him the wrong number when he asked — thankfully, I didn’t!).

Before starting my business, I worked as an actor and voiceover artist. I love comedy and improv. I used to be a massive Arsenal fan and also played football for my school and hometown teams.

Your female founder journey
I started Peachy Parrot in 2019 with no experience in design or business. One small step led to another, and I’ve learned so much along the way.

I have a clear vision of the brand and where I want to take it. I love the creative side — playing with colour and designing new pieces — but cash flow has been my biggest challenge as I work to expand the range.

I’m excited to move beyond my garage and eventually bring on extra support. Working with little money and solo has also forced me to be inventive — for example, during COVID, I bought a free-standing bath on Facebook Marketplace and took all my bath mat photos in my living room!

Why did you join AwakenHub?
I’ve just joined and am excited to learn, grow, and connect with inspiring women in the community. I’m also starting another small business with my husband, so I know this support will be valuable for that too.

Your ‘ask’ to the community
Does anybody have contacts at Anthropologie? A gift buyer reached out to me before and was keen to place an order for my bath mats, but nothing came of it. I’d love to reconnect with their buying team. If anyone can make an intro, I’d be very grateful.

Non-negotiables, values, and inspiration
I’ve always known that I need to love what I do. I’m a glass-half-full person, and while setbacks are inevitable (and I can be a worrier), I’d rather take action than dwell for too long.

My acting career taught me resilience — I’ve heard “no” countless times at auditions, so I’ve developed a thick skin.

I’m inspired by strong women like Arianna Huffington and Sara Blakely, as well as my parents, who both have a mix of talents I admire. My husband also inspires me — we share the same values and outlook, which is why I’m excited to co-found our newest project with him.

Where do you see yourself in 12 months and 5 years?
In 12 months: pushing Peachy Parrot forward and reaching the goals I’ve set.
In 5 years: expanding the brand significantly and developing the projects currently in the works.

Top three tips for other women founders

  1. Keep going — everything takes longer than you expect, but patience and persistence pay off.

  2. Trust your gut — don’t be afraid to experiment or even look a little silly.

  3. Always follow through — if you say you’ll do something (for yourself or someone else), make sure you deliver.

Six words to live by
Try to look on the bright side!

Social Media Links
Instagram – @peachy_parrot

Peachy Parrot | Bath Mats, Cushions, Baskets & Throws

Previous
Previous

AwakenHub × Stelios Foundation: €500,000 North–South Business Cooperation Awards

Next
Next

AwakenHub X Ulster University New Student Placement Opportunity