A Look Back at May & June

May began, as always, with a highlight: Norway's National Day on May 17th – a day full of pride, warmth and community spirit. We spent it quietly in our little village, surrounded by lovely people, lots of cake and ice cream, and – luckily – beautiful sunshine. Almost like it was made to order. 

Soon after, preparations for the summer season kicked off. There was cleaning, organizing, hammering, planning, and polishing of new jewelry pieces. Amidst all the usual chaos in the workshop, I had the joy of creating something truly special for my best friend's wedding: a custom jewelry set for the bride, and a pair of engraved cufflinks for the groom. Projects like these mean the world to me – when silver becomes a memory.

June brought typical Lofoten weather: wind, rain, and storms – but also those precious calm days when the sun comes out and everything slows down. On days like that, the door to the old barn stays wide open, and visitors are often treated to a cup of coffee and a story or two.

A World of Visitors Through My Door

The past few weeks have been lively here in the silversmith workshop – with visitors from all around the world. It's always a gift to see who will carry my pieces out into the world. So many inspiring conversations, curious questions, and sincere appreciation for this little universe I've built.

Some Thoughts for the Lofoten Summer

For a better togetherness and unforgettable travel memories – here are a few wishes from me to those visiting:

🌿 Seek out the quieter places – beyond the Instagram-famous spots. Not every treasure needs a geotag. A single photo is enough.

🌿 Show respect – for the people who live here, their culture, their history, their language. Many hope the true spirit of Lofoten will still be here in ten years. Help make that happen.

🌿 Use rest areas responsibly. They're not for overnight parking – remember the truck and bus drivers who rely on them for their legal breaks. They are the everyday heroes who keep this place running.

🌿 Choose our campgrounds – they offer great facilities, protect nature and the local community – and they are the safer choice, as distancing and rules are easier to manage there.

🌿 Be prepared: Bring enough water, food and warm clothes. Check weather forecasts and follow local warnings. Don't take unnecessary risks for the sake of a "cool picture." Nature here is beautiful – but also wild and unpredictable.

🌿 Understand the Right to Roam – it's a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you're unsure, stop by the Tourist Information in Svolvær or https://visitlofoten.com/en/topic/plan-your-trip/

We all share this incredible part of the world. With care, respect, and open hearts, the Lofoten summer can be magical – for everyone.

And one more thing: Please don't come with overly high expectations.
Many of you dream of experiencing the quiet, simple life in the North – and that's exactly what you'll find here. But that also means: not every house is freshly painted, not every village has a café, a shop, or a museum. Many places are just the way they are – and that's what makes them special. The people here are not extras in your vacation photos – they're just living their lives.

But isn't that exactly what you came for?
Real Northern Norway – quiet, raw, natural. And yes, sometimes with a hint of fish in the air.

Welcome to our beautiful world up here in the far North.
Leave your high standards at home – here, other values matter. And that's a good thing.

Warm greetings from the old barn
Jacqueline