About Us
About Us – Our Story
Sawdust and Love (SAL) was born from heartbreak, hope and the love we have for our daughter and sister - Sal.
In July this year, our beautiful 18-year-old daughter, Sal, was killed in a road accident. She was full of life, her laugh was one you could recognise instantly, a giggle that filled the room before she even walked in. With her long brown hair, her infectious smile and her kind and caring nature, she had a way of making everyone feel seen and loved.
Sal was honest and loyal, always telling you exactly what she thought but always from a place of love. She adored her horses and loved riding with her sister, Issie. She was happiest surrounded by her family, boyfriend and friends, filling every space with warmth, laughter and that unmistakable energy that was so completely her.
We are Richard (Dad), Kate (Mum), Will and Issie — and we are absolutely heartbroken. Losing Sal has changed everything. The world feels quieter now, emptier and we’re still learning how to get through each day. But one thing we know is that we can’t leave her behind, we need to carry her with us in all that we do.
Woodwork has always been part of Richard’s life, a craft that’s been passed down to Will, who recently completed a carpentry course. Since losing Sal, the workshop has become a place of comfort, a space to work, think and simply keep going. There’s something grounding about the smell of wood, the sound of tools, the feel of creating something solid and lasting. It’s brought both Richard and Will a sense of focus and peace. A small way of managing days that can feel too big.
We started by making chopping boards, personalised gifts, house signs and small garden pieces — simple things made with care, meaning and love. Every piece we make carries a part of her - her honesty, her warmth, her light.
The name Sawdust and Love says it all. Abbreviated- SAL, and that’s no coincidence. It’s how we keep her close, how we find a new way forward and how we honour the love she gave so freely.
We don’t know exactly what the future looks like for us, but this…. working with wood, creating, remembering feels like a start. It’s a way to rebuild a little bit of life, one piece at a time, with sawdust and love in every grain.
With love,
Kate, Richard, Will & Issie 💛
