A lot has happened in 8 years; it’s been properly jammy! But I wanted to share with you when the story really started, and it goes all the way back to 1862. Yes, 1862!
Over 160 years ago, someone in my family had the vision to write down an original jam recipe. Fortunately, that piece of family history was lovingly passed down through generations until it finally reached me. It was tucked inside an original copy of Mrs Beeton’s Book of Household Management, my mum’s most treasured heirloom. She cared for it devotedly over the years, and its battered, well-loved pages carry so much warmth and history.
I opened this book after the passing of my mother a few years ago. Flipping through, I found the original handwritten jam recipe alongside others from that era. I was completely overwhelmed, tearful and elated all at once. Pressed between the pages were dried wedding flowers, treasured family keepsakes, newspaper cutouts, and handwritten notes saved for cooking inspiration. Each page was a gentle reminder of the love and craft that came before me.
So while I may have been making jam as a professional job for 8 years, the truth is that it’s in my DNA. I’ve been cooking jam since at least 1862! Preserving fruit isn't just a business for me; it is what I was always meant to do.
Tonight, without fear or hesitation, I shall raise a glass to my ancestors. But most importantly, I raise a glass to my ultimate teacher and inspirational mother, alongside my sister, as we step into this milestone year.
Finally, I would like to dedicate this coming year and our secret new jam creation to Stuart Bailey (4th April 1949 – 21st February 2019). A dear friend, a mentor, and a truly good man. Here’s to history, family, and the jams yet to come!