Started as a pandemic pivot by me, Alison, AKA She Designs, several years ago, this hair brained scheme of myself and Brians’ has turned into a vibrant and thriving part of our business. We never thought that my illustrations would have such a life of their own. The different avenues of business this has brought us down has been wonderful. Experiences like being a Carrolls Failte competition finalist, getting the opportunity to pitch to Arnott’s  through their competition and then getting stocked by them, exhibiting at Showcase several times now, all amazing experiences. All these different things that we’ve been exposed to have just continued to inform and inspire us to keep on creating. 

As a graphic designer I am now very privileged to do a lot of commissioned illustration work and create some beautiful images in collaboration with wonderful clients. There is nothing better for my practice as an illustrator than to work with client briefs and together create great work. I am one of the lucky ones, I love what I do and it has never felt like work…now those around me may differ, particularly when I’m saying I’ve had this great idea for the fifth time that day! But I have to say I never see an eye roll or get a negative response, the creative team of craftspeople I am surrounded with are exceptional, not just in their skills and constant patience, but to collaborate with them is what makes the magic. Oh and they can be bought with doughnuts…it’s their guilty pleasure!

All of our cards are smile makers, I’m a glass half full person and a self confessed colour junky – you should see the wallpaper in my house…it’s a little technicolor I’m not gonna lie! I love positivity and even though post costs a fortune these days, I really believe that sending a card to someone can change, their day, their month, their life. There is nothing like that feeling that someone picked a card with you in mind, took the time to write a message, buy a stamp, get their steps in going to the post, all just to make you smile….it really is a wonderful way to show you care, of course I may be biased but even if it isn’t sending a card, try and take a few minutes today and do something nice, send a text to someone you haven’t seen in a while, smile at a stranger, call your family, or you could send a card, don’t fight the urge, make someone smile today!