Inspired by a Christmas market
Just over ten years ago, Camberwell College of Arts got in touch with me – they were looking for local artists to hold stalls in their first ever Christmas market.
I had already been self-employed for nearly three years at the time. I was painting commissions and trying to make it as a freelance illustrator. Saying yes to a stall was outside my comfort zone – firstly because I hadn’t had experience in selling at a market and secondly, I didn’t have any products to sell!
So I quickly picked out some of my favourite existing illustrations and got them printed on greeting cards and small prints. I also designed my first ever range of Christmas cards.
I was very surprised on the day of the market – my products sold extremely well, with positive feedback.
Starting a product-based business
After the market I started thinking about pursuing a product-based business – and then sometime in January I got the ball rolling by coming up with new designs and product ideas.
It has been an equally amazing and challenging journey!
Selling my products wholesale was a big learning curve and I faced some barriers as a deaf business owner.
My product range slowly grew
It started with greeting cards and now includes art prints, tote bags, desk pads, weekly planners, postcards, notebooks, wooden decorations and washi tapes!
I currently don’t have a plan for what the next product will be due to my major life change last year (I started a new part-time job!). I’m hoping to launch a new ceramic product next though – because I acquired a new kiln in late 2023 and I haven’t been making the most of it yet!
My proudest moments
The products I feel the most proud of are my botanical wooden decorations and washi tapes.
Some of the highlights of my business have been:
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exhibiting at the Top Drawer trade shows twice
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receiving a runner-up place at the PaperAwards
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being stocked with John Lewis, the Royal Horticultural Society, Nottingham Castle, Daylesford Organic, and Wildlife Trusts
I also had a lot of fun designing and launching some big collections, such as Wildflowers and English Garden. My Wildflowers postcard set and Potted Plants Thank You cards were featured in Modern Gardens and Country Homes & Interiors magazines respectively.
Taking on a second role
Running a business has become increasingly difficult due to Brexit and the pandemic (and the side effects).
So I’ve spent the past few years looking for a job – and last year I finally gained a part-time role in marketing and social media. Since getting the job and freelance work for Flare Arts, I’ve been working on my business a lot less than in previous years. I’m naturally worried that I’m undoing the hard work. But I have bills to pay!
Thank you for everything
I am so grateful to all my customers, clients and stockists for their support. I will never forget all the encouragement and advice I received from my family and husband. My business wouldn’t be where it is without you all.