Sara Davies: Entrepreneurial Icon, Television Star, and Inspirational Mentor
Sara Davies MBE is a name synonymous with innovation, creativity, and business success. Best known as the founder of Crafter’s Companion and a celebrated investor on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, she has become an inspirational figure for budding entrepreneurs and craft enthusiasts alike. Her journey from a university student with a big idea to a multimillionaire businesswoman is nothing short of remarkable.
In this article, we explore the life and career of Sara Davies, covering her entrepreneurial achievements, her television appearances, personal life, honours and awards, and the story behind her impressive weight loss transformation.
Early Life and Education
Sara Davies was born on 23 April 1984 in Coundon, County Durham, England. From a young age, business was in her blood. Her parents owned and ran a company for three decades, instilling in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and ambition. Growing up in a family that lived and breathed enterprise, Sara often found herself helping out in the family business, gaining hands-on experience that would shape her future.
Determined to follow her parents’ path, she studied Management at the University of York. She graduated in 2006 with a first-class degree. During her time at university, Sara embarked on a placement year where she identified a gap in the crafting industry. This would lead to the birth of her entrepreneurial journey.
Founding Crafter’s Companion
In 2005, while still a student, Sara founded Crafter’s Companion. Her first product, The Enveloper, was created with the help of her engineer father. It was designed to allow card makers to create bespoke envelopes.
The product became an overnight success when it launched on a shopping channel, selling over 30,000 units within its first year. What started from her university bedroom quickly grew into an international crafting empire.
Today, Crafter’s Companion has offices in the UK, Europe, and the United States, employing over 200 people. The company exports to more than 40 countries and generates multi-million-pound revenues annually. Sara continues to serve as Founder and Creative Director, guiding the brand with her passion for crafting and innovation.
Dragons’ Den Success
Sara joined BBC One’s Dragons’ Den in 2019, making history as the youngest ever female Dragon. Her sharp business instincts, combined with her down-to-earth approach, made her a favourite among viewers and entrepreneurs pitching for investment.
She remained on the panel until 2025, when she announced she was stepping down to refocus on her business ventures and new opportunities in television. During her time on the show, she invested in a variety of exciting start-ups, particularly those with creative and innovative products.
Television Appearances
Beyond Dragons’ Den, Sara has become a familiar face on British television:
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Strictly Come Dancing (2021): Partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec, she reached week eight and won the hearts of the public.
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Quiz and Craft Shows (2025): She signed with ITV to host Time Is Money, a daytime quiz show, and Christmas Craft Off, a festive crafting competition.
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Guest appearances include Countdown, Richard Osman’s House of Games, and Spring Walks.
Her television career reflects her versatility and her ability to connect with audiences far beyond the business world.
Sara Davies’ Net Worth
A true symbol of entrepreneurial success, Sara Davies’ net worth is estimated at around £37 million. She became a millionaire by her early twenties thanks to the success of Crafter’s Companion.
Her wealth has grown not only through her business but also from her television appearances and wise investments. Despite her financial success, Sara is known for her practical approach to money, always reinvesting in her company and supporting emerging entrepreneurs.
Personal Life: Husband and Family
Sara has been married to her childhood sweetheart, Simon Davies, since 2007. Together, they have two sons, Oliver and Charlie. Her family is central to her life, and she often speaks about balancing her career with motherhood.
She also has a sister, Helen Johnson, highlighting her strong family ties. Sara and Simon have been business partners as well, working closely to nurture and grow Crafter’s Companion into a household name.
Sara Davies’ Weight Loss Journey
In recent years, Sara has undergone an impressive weight loss transformation, losing around four stone and dropping three dress sizes.
How Did Sara Davies Lose Weight?
Her approach was focused on long-term health and lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes:
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Cutting Out Sugar: She eliminated sugary foods, fruit juice, and alcohol.
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Clean Eating: Emphasised vegetables and reduced carbohydrate intake.
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Exercise Routine: Incorporated running and regular workouts, even completing half-marathon training.
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Mindset: She aimed to be the healthiest version of herself as she approached 40.
Did Sara Davies Use Weight Loss Pills?
There is no evidence that Sara used weight loss pills. Her transformation was the result of dedication, clean eating, and consistent exercise. She has been open about her journey, inspiring others to focus on sustainable and healthy lifestyle changes.
Honours and Awards
Sara’s achievements have earned her widespread recognition, including:
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MBE (2016): For services to the economy.
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Queen’s Award for Enterprise for international trade.
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Outstanding Entrepreneur at the Northern Power Women Awards.
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Creative Entrepreneur of the Year at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
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Named in Management Today’s 35 under 35.
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Stevie Women in Business Award for Young Entrepreneur.
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Listed in the Sunday Times SME Export Track 100 multiple times.
These awards highlight not just her business acumen but also her impact on British enterprise.
Known For
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Founding Crafter’s Companion.
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Being a Dragon on BBC’s Dragons’ Den.
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Competing on Strictly Come Dancing.
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Inspiring entrepreneurs through her story of building a global business from a university bedroom.
Legacy and Inspiration
Sara Davies’ story embodies determination, creativity, and resilience. From her roots in County Durham to the heights of business and television, she has remained authentic and approachable. She is a role model not only for women in business but for anyone who dreams of turning a passion into a career.
Her decision to step away from Dragons’ Den marks a new chapter, but it is clear that Sara Davies’ influence in business, media, and beyond will continue to grow.
Conclusion
Sara Davies MBE is more than just an entrepreneur; she is a visionary leader, television personality, and mentor. Her journey with Crafter’s Companion, her time on Dragons’ Den, and her inspiring weight loss transformation all showcase her drive and determination. With a net worth of £37 million, countless awards, and a career that spans business and entertainment, Sara Davies has firmly established herself as one of the UK’s most admired businesswomen.
Her story is proof that with passion, perseverance, and innovation, extraordinary success is within reach.
