Socks For Happy People

Do you have £1,250 and want to invest in SFHP?

Rich Taylor — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 10:00:34 +0000

With the socks being shipped over right now it’s time to promote the 3 micro-investment opportunities we have left. For £1,250 you can become a shareholder in Socks for Happy People and amongst other things receive 10 pairs of our socks a year for life!

People have been so enthusiastic and supportive while we’ve been getting set up. So instead of simply going to a bank for support to help with cashflow as we begin trading we thought we’d open up these opportunities to our fans to come aboard right at the beginning and make a real difference.

***We did have 4 opportunities, but one got snapped up before I had time to get this post written!***

So without further a-do here’s a breakdown of what you’ll receive in return for your investment:

You become a shareholder of Socks for Happy People, receiving 0.25% equity and paid dividends on profits (after we’ve contributed at least 10% of our profits to initiatives that bring the world a little closer to our visions that is. VALUE: £1,250, increasing in value every year*)
Receive ten (10) pairs of Socks for Happy People A YEAR FOR LIFE! (WORTH £160 EVERY YEAR)
Quarterly SHAREHOLDERS’ REPORTS showing how your investment is doing
Invitation to private Shareholders’ Meetings, both social and business
An opportunity to expand your business network through being on our team
Certified membership of the official ‘Socks for Happy People Family’, including certificate (PRICELESS)
Exclusive opportunities to buy Limited Edition socks available only to those in the ‘Family’ (Tip: Collectors’ items people!)
Receive invitations to exclusive ‘Family Only’ events and retreats
Receive exclusive ‘Family Only’ offers and promotions that will NEVER ever be available to the general public….ever.
Have your say in the Socks for Happy People decision making process by receiving a special invitation to join one of our select focus groups.
An exclusive ‘FAMILY MEMBER’ icon on the Socks for Happy People social media platform, coming shortly!
Become part of Socks for Happy People history, be featured on a special place on our website as well as on our wall at Socks for Happy People HQ?

*Of course, this could go down in value as well as up… but we’ll be working hard and smart to ensure it’s always going in the right direction!

——

We wanted to give a lot back as we’ve received so much, and that’s why it’s jam-packed with goodness. And if you don’t think you’d need 10 pairs of socks a year for life just think of all the ready-made gifts you’ll be able to give!

It also goes without saying that knowing you helped Socks for Happy People get off the ground in the early days will probably feel pretty special in years to come.

So is this for you?

We only have 3 of these opportunities available since Steve has secured one already whilst on holiday from Germany (Go Steve!). We do have to offer them on a ‘first come first served’ basis, so be sure to get in touch as soon as this feels right for you.

Please email me at rich@socksforhappypeople.com with ‘Oh yes, I want in!’ as the email subject, and be sure to let us know why you’d like to take up the opportunity.

Below is how Steve showed his interest since this wasn’t official then, leaving this lovely note as a surprise : p

We really look forward to hearing from you. Your investment will make a genuine difference to the company and our wider vision. It’s time for the good ship socks to set sail!

Rich : )

Affirmation Sock preview – 1 of 3 Launch collection designs

Rich Taylor — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:14:51 +0000

Click here to view the embedded video.

Would you want to start your day the right way by pulling on a pair of our Affirmation Socks? Do you think they’d have an effect on your mood during the day? What do you think of our first affirmation? Do drop us your comments below, we’d love to know what you think…

Lights…Camera…Sock Action!

Rich Taylor — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 10:30:19 +0000

We all like a break from our computers, especially when it involves leap-frogging and piggy backs.

This image was one of many taken on a recent test shoot we did to try out a few ideas for our forthcoming collection shoot (using imperfect samples). And try as she might, for a while Rebecca just couldn’t stop her tongue from poking out whenever she did a leapfrog (see above). Eventually she mastered it with a grin : )

I myself like the tongue out version, so here it is…

The shoot was orchestrated in no time by Alexandra Walsh (AlexStylist@gmail.com), the cream of the crop on the Fashion and Brand Promotion course at UCLan and the images were taken by North West based photographer John Taylor of Spin Photography. Really looking forward to doing the final shoot, with or without tongues sticking out!

BIG thanks to Rowan, Rebecca, Steve, Zulma, Alex and John for all the help. We’re glad you had fun : D

How would you shoot our socks? Can you suggest any poses? What do you think of these test shots? Drop us a comment below, let us know…Thanks!

I’m in with the Mob in London…And they love socks!

Rich Taylor — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 15:54:01 +0000

To become part of the Mob at this time of the year you first have to admit that you don’t know the meaning of the word cold! Come on…admit it!

I know I certainly didn’t.

The Mob know you probably suffer a downturn in temperature and a covering of snow (once the initial novelty passes) as badly as everyone else. But running with this Mob will likely raise your awareness of just how fortunate you are to spend the vast majority of your time in a relatively warm home or office with a ready supply of hot water and food.

While you and I complain of the cold as if we were actually living out in it, this Mob supports those that actually do!

I’m talking about The Sock Mob: a group of volunteers that take the time to come together once a week to walk the well researched streets of London to genuinely engage with the homeless, cutting through the misconceptions, prejudice and fear that often accompany stereotypes of rough sleepers and other vulnerable groups in the city. They walk, sit and talk with them in a moment of mutual learning and trust, driven by the ethos of unconditional human contact and friendship. They take socks with them, and other items of clothing and food to give to the homeless as an effective way of breaking the ice and proving much needed supplies. But maybe more importantly they are offering human and emotional support, a listening ear and a gesture that shows that people do see and do care.

The Sock Mob does a great deal more too. Just this Christmas they took it upon themselves to organise a ‘Christmas Mixer’, a party (catered for by food donated by local supermarkets) on Christmas Eve where members of The Sock Mob and the homeless of London partied happily together, defying traditional social barriers. They have also piloted a scheme to provide ‘Walking Tour’ training and employment to the homeless (see pic below) and have plenty of other ideas of how to work with and for the homeless in progressive and empowering ways.

But not only is it great for the homeless, it’s also great for members of the Mob. Lidija Mavra, the founder of The Sock Mob, testifies that those that attend walks and meet the homeless get so much out of it themselves that it’s inaccurate to call being part of the Mob altruistic. It’s good for everyone. And, having joined the Mob and undertaken a walk, I heartily agree! We’re now looking into how we as a company can support The Sock Mob do even more great things through the medium of socks!

To find out more about The Sock Mob, to join or to see how you can help and support Lidija and her fellow ‘Mobbers’ then simply click here.

Isn’t it such a great idea? Can you imagine spending the majority of your time outside in these temperatures? Do you think this is the kind of initiative we should be trying to support? Have you been on a Sock Mob walk? Will you? Leave us your thoughts and comments below…show a bit of love to encourage the good people of The Mob…

11 Million+ sign climate petition…and that’s without you!

Rich Taylor — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:28:00 +0000

I’m not in Copenhagen but some close friends of mine are just now, as is Socks for Happy People’s ‘Eco-Oracle’ Neils Peter Flint. According to them, and the bits I’ve read in the media, decisions and commitments internationally could be stronger…and some are even saying the summit needs saving!

So for all of us not in Copenhagen making ourselves heard, do take 30 seconds to sign the MASSIVE petition started by Avaaz.

11 million+ people have already signed it, which is hearty and whopping, so it’s definitely worth you adding to it.

Thanks and Good on you! in advance : )

Did you sign it? Or signed it already? Let us know! Are you in Copenhagen? How is it? What can you tell us? Leave all your thoughts and comments below…

Socks for Happy People: Now arriving in February!

Tom Minter — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 21:53:33 +0000

Question: When is a ‘final sample’ not a final sample?

Answer: When four of our colours aren’t right!

This was the disappointing truth we had to face as we observed what were supposed to be our ‘final’ samples. After all, production was scheduled to start last week and the first order of socks was due to arrive in the UK to start selling on 15 December.

We always knew we were cutting it fine and leaving no room for error but we thought we’d give it a shot. Lo and behold… our boldness and optimism weren’t enough to carry us through this time.

So, the new plan is…

We’re now launching in February, which was always the official launch date anyway. (We thought we could get a few thousand pairs in early and sell them over Christmas before we really got moving in the Spring.)

Therefore it’s back to the original plan and I have to say it’s worked out well all round. It was always a rush getting things in shape for Christmas and I have to say that I, for one, was a little uneasy about pushing things through and potentially overlooking some crucial detail.

Now we have a bit of breathing room to get these beautiful socks perfect and ensure they’re tip top for when they arrive. After all, you can’t rush art!

An apology (and a big hug)

If you were wanting to buy some Socks for Happy People for Christmas, we’re really sorry if we’ve disappointed you; obviously we’re disappointed right alongside you.

The socks will be here soon and I have to say – even with the colours that were a bit off – they’re looking GREAT. Not just a little bit great but, like, really great. We can’t wait to show you and I promise they will be worth the wait.

As ever, we’ll keep you up-to-date and in the loop all the way, right up to launch and beyond!

How do you feel about Socks for Happy People not being here for Christmas? Do you think it’s better to wait until February to get them right, or do you think we should have just rushed them through? This was a difficult decision for us, so it would be great to know what you think…

Green Apples & Elephants – Great eco Chritmas party alternatives!

Rich Taylor — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:00:55 +0000

It’s that time of the year and Christmas parties are being planned. So why not add beautiful and sustainable party cups, and plates (amongst other great ideas) to ensure you have a true evergreen Chrimbo celebration? We let you know about Green Apples & Elephants a little back and everyone was enthusiastic about their sustainable crockery and green party essentials. Well, they’re now available to browse and purchase here.

If you’ve forgotten how great their products are…see the vid below : )

Click here to view the embedded video.

Fab aren’t they? For more info go to the Green Apples and Elephants website!

And do let us know what you think about them below. Would you use them? Can you recommend them to a friend you know who throws parties and would like to do it in a more beautiful and sustainable way? Simply click the comment button below…

“Socks for Happy People partners with WeForest.com!”

Tom Minter — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:06:12 +0000

Trees are brilliant.

They do some VERY cool stuff: they stabilize the climate and cool the air; they regulate the water cycle and absorb carbon dioxide, not to mention provide us with oxygen to breathe. They actually turn sunlight into life. Now that’s clever.

Trees are pretty damn smart. Anyone who’s seen the second Lord of the Rings film could tell you that.

But what a lot of people don’t know is that trees actually make clouds. They release tiny particles and organisms into the atmosphere that increase humidity, which means cloud cover and rainfall increases.

If you’re anything like I was when I first heard this, you may be asking yourself ‘But why would we want more clouds and rain?’ Living in England I can safely say we certainly see enough rain… surely we want less, not more of it? After all, that’s why a lot of us Brits ferry ourselves away to sunny Spain every year, where often there’s not a cloud in sight.

Well… while that may be good for a couple of weeks of relaxing in the sun with your sangria, if we’d like the Costa del Sol to still be above sea level by the time our grandchildren are old enough to enjoy its pleasures we would be well advised to start making more clouds… and quickly.

Why do we need more clouds?

Clouds, you see, have a cooling effect on our planet. They reflect a lot of the sun’s light back out of the atmosphere and act as a very efficient natural shield, keeping our planet cool in the process. In fact, scientists estimate that just a 2% increase in worldwide cloud cover would be enough to completely halt and reverse climate change.

Wow! That’s important data! Someone should do something about it!

Yes, you’re absolutely right. And thankfully someone is. Those brilliant people are the dandy folks at WeForest.com, and they’re committed to reforesting 20 million square kilometres of earth to halt climate change in its tracks, giving us enough time to develop truly sustainable solutions for a brighter future.

But really, won’t it take TOO LONG to increase global cloud cover?!

Not as long as you’d think. Have a look at this really funky video which highlights a recent reforestation project in Borneo. Three years after reforestation guess how much cloud cover had increased by? What do you think? 1%, 2%, 5%… 7%?

The results will AMAZE you. This cool video (Narrated by Stephen Fry, duration: 4:44) reveals all:

Click here to view the embedded video.

Pretty cool, hey?

We thought so too, so when we saw WeForest.com founder Bill Liao present recently at TEDx in London, we knew Socks for Happy People had to get involved. It’s just too important of a project not to.

So today we’re very proud to announce that Socks for Happy People has become an official WeForest.com partner, meaning we’ll be doing everything we can to support WeForest.com on their mission; this will be the first of many WeForest.com posts, I’m sure, and we’ll keep you informed of developments as they happen.

So with COP15 happening in Copenhagen next month, be sure to remember just how amazing trees really are, all the things they do to help support us, and why we should do everything we can to help support them.

Trees = brilliant.

Makes me want to go out and hug them.

Do you love trees too? Please tell us what YOU think. What are your feelings about climate change? What did you think of the video? What do you think of the WeForest.com projects? Would you like to get involved? Click on the ‘Comments’ button below and share your thoughts with us!

“I smiled so much it didn’t hurt!”

Rich Taylor — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:42:46 +0000

Now not smiling can be a pain in the…back of the head.

We’re all for smiling but wonder if this a little extreme? Or, maybe it’s the future…what do you think?Drop us your comments below…

Click here to view the embedded video.

Is the designer going in the right direction? Think they’ll catch on? Have an opinion either way? Click below to comment…it’s always great hearing your thoughts!

Thank goodness for the global finacial crisis!

Rich Taylor — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:20:08 +0000

The financial crisis really has been the best thing our premium quality sock company could have hoped for!

This video brilliantly explains why, and gives you glimpse at the soul of Socks for Happy People.

When we started 3 years ago we dreamed of bringing about a positive shift in the world towards the values we had and believed in. And thanks to the £Trillions that went missing, that very shift has become very real quicker than we could have ever hoped!

With ‘consumer confidence’ low, there’s been an exciting shift from mindless consumption to mindful consumption. Put aside 20 minutes and watch this video, for the Chinese character for ‘crisis’ also means ‘opportunity’…

(The vid starts well, get’s a little dry for a short while and then it gets very interesting!)

Click here to view the embedded video.

So, what do YOU think? Would you agree? Can you see and feel this shift yourself? How is it evident to you? How do you dream companies and the world could and should be? Leave all thoughts and comments below…