My 2018 in Review
So 2018 was a bit of a crazy year. I feel like I say that every year, but I think your late 20s are the pivotal years with big things happen and you start making strides in the world rather than just bumbling along cluelessly (or may that’s just me).
Fear of the Blank Page
I don’t personally like the phrase ‘creative block’, but fear of the blank page is definitely real! As an artist and an art teacher I have learnt there are so many things that can hold people back from be creative. Having no ideas, having too many ideas, perfectionism and worrying the painting will be a failure, worrying about wasting expensive materials, and good old fear of the blank page.
Our New Home - Living Room Tour
Earlier in the year my husband and I had to leave our rented flat of five years, but every cloud has a silver lining and for us that meant to buying our own home. I was so excited for us to finally have a place of our own, and really being able to put our own stamp on it.
The Joy of Watercolor Book Launch
This week I celebrated the UK launch of my book and I have to say after my wedding it was probably the happiest evening of my life. I’m so lucky to have such incredible friends and family who made the evening so special.
A little Guide to the Suffolk Coast
I love Suffolk, I think it’s a little bit overshadowed by Norfolk as a mini break destination, but Suffolk has so much to offer. It’s only an hour and 10 minutes from London on the train and is full of beautiful villages and charming seaside towns.
Joules x New Designers
It’s that time again, fledgling designers are being pushed gently out of the nest and into the real world. It’s an exciting time, and I was lucky enough to visit New Designers to take a look at the new talent graduating this summer and learn more about how Joules champions creativity.
Watercolour in Blossom with Papier
Earlier in the year I had the chance to work with Papier, one of my favourite clients, on some content for their magazine. T
Weekend:IN at Kreativ House
A few weeks ago I was in invited to take part in a day of creative workshops run by independent brands with weekend:IN. As someone who teaches a lot of workshops it was lovely to be on the other side for once and learn some new skills.
Jackson and Levine x Habitat
Last week I got invited along to the launch party for Jackson and Levine's new ceramic collection with Habitat. The event had a street party theme and featured many an Aperol Spritz, an delicious buffet of Italian food and we were serenaded from the rooftops by two lovely opera singers.
A Little Guide to Sóller, Mallorca
My husband and I love a European city break, but I've realised in the rush to do and see as much as you can in three or four days it's not always that relaxing. We decided to book a springtime European getaway with a focus on slowing down and relaxing. Sóller in Mallorca was the perfect solution.
How to Sketch While You Travel
Is there anything more relaxing than sitting painting in the sunshine whilst on holiday? However it’s so easy to pack your paints and sketchbook in your suitcase and then leave them there all week! I’m definitely guilty of taking my art materials on holiday, but never actually using them. When you are on holiday and you’ve got a limited amount of time to do and see things it can be difficult to make time to sketch. Here are my top tips for making it happen.
Godiva x Emma Block Illustration
When Godiva got in touch with me and asked if I would like to design an Emma Block Illustration Easter Egg with them how could I say no? Chocolate and illustration is bit of a dream combination. I was invited along with five other creative influencers, Sophie Tea, Gizzi Erskine, Rosie Fortescue, Henry Holland and Candice Brown (Bake Off winner) to transform a beautiful Godiva milk chocolate egg.
Own Your Story with Kikki.K
Back in January I had a day of filming with a stationery brand that I really love. Kikki K have just launched a new collection called Own Your Story, and they gave me the opportunity to share a bit more of my story with you
2017 in Review
It’s that time again, the year in review blog post! I’m terrible at remembering what I’ve done in a year, and tend to think I haven’t done much of anything, which is why I’ve got my diary out so I can go through month by month and remind myself of all the exciting stuff that’s happened.
A Little Guide to Lisbon
Lisbon has always been on my must visit list, so when I decided book a mini break as a treat for finishing writing my first book it was an obvious choice. I couldn’t wait to explore the cobbled streets and colourful alleyways of Lisbon.
How to Wear a Beret
So apparently the beret is back in fashion, which is news to me. Was it ever not in fashion??
Peru Part 4: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
As soon as you step onto the grounds of Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel you you are enveloped by dense jungle and an immediate sense of calm. It is such a perfect Oasis away from the noise and hubbub of the main town. Inkaterra own 12 acres of unspoilt cloud forest, and the hotel is nestled right into the jungle.
Instagram for Creatives Workshop
Last month I hosted my first ever Instagram for Creatives workshop in East London.
Why it Doesn't Pay to Work for Free
Working for free has been a big issue for a long time in the illustration industry, but I really feel it's becoming a bit of a problem at the moment. Here are the reasons why I think it doesn't pay to work for free.