Haway the prints: Sunderland mum’s side business honouring Mackem heritage proves a hit

Kelly Fairs has showcased Mackem phrases in colourful prints.

Kelly Fairs, 43, launched Fair Sea Prints at the start of the year after gaining inspiration from gallery walls she spotted in home decor accounts on Instagram.

The marketing campaigns manager, who lives with her husband David, 34 and their four-year-old son Theo in Seaburn has said she started creating the prints and selling them on Etsy as a hobby.

But sales took off very soon, with more than 350 prints bought already. Phrases showcased include ‘Mint’ and ‘Why Aye Pet’ as well as bestseller ‘Shy Bairns Get Nowt’.

The prints have been purchased from people as far as London./Photo: Kelly Fairs/ Fair Sea Prints

Kelly said: “I’m Sunderland born and bred, so I’m very proud of my heritage.

”I have a broad accent and I use a lot of colloquialisms.

"Pretty much straight away the local prints started selling really well.

"Sales have been absolutely great, much better than I ever expected.

"I think it does resonate with people in the North East, because a lot of people in the North East are proud of being from here and humour is obviously a big part of the North East.

"I think these prints have appealed to that as well.”

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The mam has sold hundreds of prints on Etsy and attacted dozens of five star reviews who rave about the posters.

One reviewer said: “Absolutely love my prints! Trying to work out of I have wall space for more.”

Another wrote: “As a Sunderland native now living in London, I’m so glad I discovered this shop. Would recommend.”

Although the prints have been purchased from people across the country, Kelly has said her main focus remains on the local market.

She explained: "I think it has loads of potential as business but for now I’m just happy selling to the local market.

"I do get sales up and down the country as well. I think there are lot of people from the North East who live in London who buy the prints as well.

She added: "I get so many fantastic comments from people who’ve moved away and they say ‘I’m a Mackem, but I’m working and living in London now and it’s been fab to see your prints.’

"That gives me a lot of satisfaction because, to be honest, I’m not really doing it for the money per say.

“It’s more just a fun hobby with the bonus of making a little bit of extra money on the side, if you like.

"It’s just something I do an evening really when my little boy is in bed.”

"It’s more about being fun and enjoyable.”

The prints are available to order on Etsy.

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