Hobby does pair a big business favour
When Francesca and Della Bond were inspired by their Italian friends to make wedding favours they never dreamed their decorative almonds would end up in a national department store.
The pair from Oldbury, who also make wedding stationery, say they are thrilled with the new contract at House of Fraser in Birmingham.
"Francesca is Italian and every year we go over to visit friends and family just North of Venis," says Della, 40, who is Francesca's daughter-in-law.
"At family get-togethers and parties it is a tradition for guests to receive five almonds – these stand for health, wealth, long life, fertility and happiness.
"Francesca and I had a look in the shop windows over there at their almond favours and we said to each other that we could do ones just as good, if not better."
That was in 1999 and from Della's home, just off the Wolverhampton Road, they produce hand-made items – and have a showroom in the garage.
Della says she started the hobby as a way of making a bit of extra money while staying at home with her sons Mitchell, aged 18, and Jordan, 16.
