ELLIE - CEO
Ellie Smith-Barratt is the CEO of Vanilla Ink Jewellery School and the founder of her own jewellery brand, Silver in Eden. Her journey into jewellery making began just like many others — by taking a Taster Session, fulfilling a long-held desire to create beautiful, sparkly pieces.
With a background in Literature from Glasgow University, Ellie spent years as a Private Banking Manager in London before transitioning into Events Management within the hospitality and travel industries. She has even been a successful free house publican — so naturally, she’s the one in charge of staff nights out and team-building events!
As an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development, Ellie leads the business development side of the INKubator Programme, bringing her passion for people, coaching, and support to the heart of Vanilla Ink. Dedicated to continuous learning, she constantly drives her own skills development to strengthen the future of the business. Whether she’s out forging new relationships or deep in funding applications to support our Social Enterprise work, Ellie is always working to push Vanilla Ink forward.
A talented maker in her own right, Ellie has skyrocketed in skill since first picking up a jeweller’s tool. Understanding, patient, and incredibly approachable, she brings the perfect mix of expertise and encouragement—making her a fantastic jewellery tutor at Vanilla Ink.
SCOTT - CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Scott McIntyre is a Founding Director of Vanilla Ink Jewellery School CIC, where he leads commissions, shapes class content, and delivers the INKubator Programme. With over 30 years in the industry, there’s little he doesn’t know — his expertise and vision are the driving force behind Vanilla Ink CIC.
Scott’s journey into jewellery began at just seventeen, training at one of Glasgow’s top jewellers. Always eager to learn and refine his craft, he built a career across Scotland’s central belt, mastering techniques and pushing creative boundaries.
Passionate about both craftsmanship and community, Scott has created an inclusive space where makers can grow, collaborate, and develop their skills. Under his guidance, Vanilla Ink has become a thriving hub of creativity, empowering jewellers to hone their craft and forge successful careers. A champion of traditional goldsmithing, Scott continues to inspire the next generation to challenge themselves while staying true to their creative roots.
Diagnosed as autistic in adulthood, Scott is open about his mental health journey and uses his experiences to support others facing similar challenges, fostering a culture of understanding and resilience within the industry.
Jenna - studio manager
Jenna Webster’s jewellery journey began at Cardonald College, where she studied from 2010 to 2013, earning an HND in Jewellery and Metalwork. She then advanced straight into the second year at DJCAD in Dundee, graduating in 2016 with a first-class honours degree — fancy pants indeed!
After university, Jenna spent a year honing her craft in a Glasgow high street workshop before moving to Edinburgh for a prestigious two-year apprenticeship at Hamilton & Inches on George Street. Over the next six years, she worked on high-end bespoke pieces, repairs, remounts, and designed collections, while also handling estimates and workshop administration.
In early 2024, Jenna joined Vanilla Ink as our full-time Studio Manager, working closely with Scott and her teammates Natasha and Annelies. An exceptionally talented goldsmith with natural flair and skill, she brings a wealth of experience to the senior management team. We’re absolutely delighted to have her on board!
Natasha - studio manager
Meet Natasha, our dedicated Studio Manager at Vanilla Ink, where her passion for people, design, and sharing her jewellery expertise takes centre stage. Originally from South Africa, she proudly earned a Bachelor's Degree in Technology from the University of Johannesburg before completing her apprenticeship in an industry-leading workshop. There, she mastered her craft, becoming a skilled goldsmith with years of experience under her belt.
Driven by her own dreams, Natasha took a leap of faith and moved abroad, following her heart to Scotland to start a new chapter — and her own jewellery business. Her journey led her to Vanilla Ink, where she joined the INKubator programme, finding the perfect space to grow her artistry. Now, alongside running her own business, she plays a key role at Vanilla Ink, bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to the studio every day.
For Natasha, the South African lass, Vanilla Ink is more than just a workplace — it’s a second family. With her wealth of knowledge and experience, she continues to inspire and nurture the next generation of jewellery makers, helping them turn their passion into craft.
amy - inker in residence
Amy first joined the Vanilla Ink team as a summer intern in 2021 while studying for her BA in Jewellery & Metal Design at DJCAD. She then went on to earn an MFA in Art, Science, and Visual Thinking, securing the prestigious William Sangster Phillips Grant as a fully funded scholarship. Now, with her studies complete, she’s back full-time, eager to continue her research through teaching and expanding her skills as an interdisciplinary researcher.
Her jewellery business is built around creating bespoke pieces designed to support mental well-being. Rather than mass-producing generic designs, Amy crafts jewellery inspired by each client’s personal ‘happy place,’ allowing them to carry a subtle, private connection to a space that brings them comfort. This unique approach enhances mindfulness and holistic well-being, wherever they may be.
As one of our 2024 INKers, Amy further refined her skills to an advanced professional standard, putting her award-winning LaunchIT business training into practice. Now, she steps into the role of Lead Jeweller in Residence, working closely with the management team while also guiding a team of Jewellers in Residence of her own.