How a Smile Changed Everything
Back in 2002, designers, Spencer and Diane Hannah decided to trade in city life for the fresh air and stunning views of the Lake District. They set up their design consultancy in the historic market town of Kendal, dreaming big and soaking up all the creative inspiration the Lakes had to offer.
Fast forward a few years and during a trip to Scandinavia, the seed of an idea was born. They imagined a brand that wasn’t just contemporary but also full of fun, and one that captured the quirky charm and spirited soul of the Lakes.
On their return, while out walking in the beautiful Langdale Valley, fate stepped in. They came across a native Herdwick sheep with the biggest smile you’ve ever seen. It was love at first grin. That smile inspired Spencer to snap a photo, and from that photo, the now-iconic Herdy logo was born - smiley, cheeky, and bursting with character, just like the sheep itself.
In 2007, with just three products, Spencer and Diane launched Herdy at the Westmorland Show. The show organizers located their stand right next to the Herdwick sheep pens... but thanks to a foot and mouth outbreak, the pens were empty, and the sheep show they sponsored turned into a duck show. Not quite the start they’d imagined!
But just like the tough, tenacious Herdwick, Spencer and Diane kept pushing. Their passion and persistence paid off, sparking a wave of love and support that took Herdy from a cheeky idea to a Lakes icon.
And that’s how a chance encounter with a smiling Herdwick sheep turned into a brand bursting with fun, character, and international appeal.
