This year marks a special milestone for us at Paper Starlights; 30 years since we first began trading on Yorkshire’s festive markets. From our early days in Leeds and York to lighting up homes across the world, our story has always been rooted in creativity, connection, and community.

That’s why we’re thrilled to be celebrating this anniversary by supporting 18-year-old Richmond-based student Harriett Wilson, who’s launching her very first market stalls this winter.

Harriett’s journey feels beautifully familiar. Just like us three decades ago, she’s starting out on Yorkshire’s festive markets; sharing her love of light, craftsmanship, and a little Christmas magic. With our support and mentoring, she’s learning everything from setting up a stall to understanding what makes people fall in love with handmade lanterns.

“I’ve always wanted to run my own small business, and this has been the perfect opportunity to learn,” says Harriett. “The support I’ve had has been amazing; from learning how to set up a stall to meeting customers and understanding what people love. I can’t wait to bring these beautiful lanterns to local markets this Christmas.”

It’s moments like this that remind us why we started. Markets are more than just places to trade; they’re vibrant communities where creativity, confidence and connection thrive. As our co-founder Andy Jupp explains:

“Yorkshire’s markets have always been at the heart of our story. It feels really special to now be helping young traders like Harriett build their own futures. Market trading is such a powerful way to develop confidence, creativity and community connections.”

Where to Find Harriett

If you’re local to North Yorkshire, you can visit Harriett’s stall and discover a handpicked range of handcrafted paper star lanterns made using traditional techniques. Each one is designed to bring a warm, festive glow to your home; whether hung in a window, brightening up your Christmas display, or creating that cosy winter atmosphere we all love.

You’ll find Harriett at:

• Tennants Garden Rooms, Leyburn – 28–29 November

• Richmond Station, Richmond – 30 November

• Middleton Tyas Christmas Fair – 4 December

• Darlington Indoor Market – 6–7 December

• Wynyard Hall, Stockton-on-Tees - 17th December

As we celebrate three decades of trading, our mission remains the same: to create magical moments, champion sustainability, and nurture creativity in every form. Supporting young makers like Harriett keeps that light shining.