Rhiannon Thomas has recently opened Aurora Artisan Crafts at 3 Vanguard House.
We caught up with Rhiannon to find out more about her, why she decided to open her shop at Milford Waterfront, what part of her job she is most passionate about and more.  

Can you tell us a bit about yourself? 

I grew up just outside of Milford Haven and attended Milford Haven Comprehensive. I’ve always been a lover of the arts - studying Music, Drama and Art at A level and then going on to study Performing Arts at Pembrokeshire College where I graduated with Triple Distinction.
You may also have seen me on the Torch Theatre stage in various productions with Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, most recently playing Belle in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ in 2025. 

How did you get started in this industry?

Since I was young I have always loved crafting something new, whether that be making jewellery, sewing or drawing and painting. I had hoped that someday I could make my dream a reality and run my own small business. I have been creating jewellery for over 15 years and produced my first pet portrait back in 2014. During lockdown whilst furloughed I decided to launch Aurora Artisan Crafts, predominantly selling handmade reusable cloth pads, wipes and accessories and since then I have developed my business to encompass all of my handcrafted products, the latest being Stained Glass.

Why did you choose to open Aurora Artisan Crafts at Milford Waterfront?

Growing up in and around Milford Haven I often visited Milford Waterfront with my family and dog. Recently moving back home after spending over 3 years in Aberystwyth I wanted to expand my business and the perfect opportunity arose at Milford Waterfront!

What part of your job are you most passionate about? 

Nearly everything is handcrafted here in the heart of Pembrokeshire. I also offer commissions and custom orders for all of my products. It’s so important to me to create beautifully unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. Also being a massive dog lover, it was crucial to me to have a dog friendly shop, you may even see my own dog peeping from behind the counter from time to time!

What's one thing people are surprised to learn about you? 

That I make all of my products. I often get visitors mistaking my hand-drawn pet portraits for photographs!

If you could make one of your products for anyone (famous or not), who would it be? 

I would love to create a pet portrait for Michael Ball. As a fellow theatre performer and Tibetan Terrier owner this would be a dream.