On Thursday we shared a new Do What You Love interview with Australian web designer Jo Klima (you can read it here). We also hosted a generous giveaway from Jo, who offered a free place on her upcoming (brilliant) e-course ‘Your Darling Blog‘, all about creating a ‘gorgeous new digital home for your blog’. The prize includes 1-1 feedback from Jo. And the winner is…

Lindsay Buck!

Congratulations Lindsay! Jo will be in touch directly about your prize. Be sure to let us know how the course goes – we can’t wait to see your shiny new site.

And if you didn’t win you can still grab a spot on this fantastic course if you are quick – here’s the link for registration before class starts on Monday.

Thank you to everyone who entered the giveaway!

And so to the honeymoon story… After our brilliant wedding (pictures of which are coming soon), we headed off to Italy for our honeymoon. I don’t know what it is about the word ‘honeymoon’ but it has a dreaminess about it which perfectly describes how you feel when you are on one.

We flew into Pisa and took a train through the Italian countryside to Florence, a beautiful city packed with history and art at every turn.

We only had one night in the city, so spent many hours walking the cobbled streets, strolling through the Boboli Gardens, basking in the sunshine and eating gelato.

Borgo San Jacopo inside Salvatore Ferragamo’s beautiful Hotel Lungarno where we stayed

We had promised ourselves that we would eat and drink whatever delicious feasts we fancied while away, so we started with dinner at Borgo San Jacopo, a fine dining restaurant I had visited on my own a few weeks before Mr K and I first met.

Back then, as I sat by the window overlooking the River Arno shortly after my 30th birthday I made a promise to myself that when I met the love of my life I would bring him here – so it was the perfect place to start out Italian honeymoon.

You should have seen Mr K’s face when the ‘amuse bouche’ appeared as a gift from the chef. I think he thought this was the world’s tiniest starter (or some kind of culinary joke – but it tasted delicious!)…

Pop back soon for Honeymoon part 2, when we venture into the Italian countryside for a taste of Tuscany…

***

PS – There is still time to enter our GIVEAWAY and win a free place on J Klima’s upcoming course ‘Your Darling Blog’ (including 1-1 feedback, worth around USD $280) – starts on Monday. If you want to make your blog more beautiful, and more effective, this is absolutely the course for you. You have until 5pm GMT today to enter – check it out here.

*Photo by Carter & Rose Photography

This week’s Do What You Love interview is with Australian designer Jo Klima. Jo is a ‘web designer, illustrator, and chief idea gardener ‘over at The Darling Tree. A while back I took Jo’s brilliant course ‘Your Darling Blog design & style workshop‘ and loved her work so much that I commissioned her to overhaul all our branding and website (new site and blog coming very soon!) Since then I have worked with Jo on several other projects and found that she has an uncanny knack of just ‘getting’ what you are trying to communicate in terms of what you want your brand to look and feel like.

Jo’s blog design course is running again from this coming Monday – if you want to make yours more beautiful and more effective I highly recommend it. You can find out more here.

And we have a GIVEAWAY! Jo is generously offering a free place on her upcoming ‘Your Darling Blog’ course, including one-to-one feedback (worth AUS$295 / approx USD$280) – read to the end of the interview to find out more!

With an extraordinary knack for organic, finely detailed, and feminine designs, Jo strives to provide her clients with a brand identity inspired by their ideas, purpose and spirit. A work of digital art they’ll keep loving for years to come, as a perfect representation of the soul of their business.

Jo also loves to teach bloggers how they can create their own custom designs and enjoy the experience of infusing their online spaces with more of their personality with the Your Darling Blog design workshops.

*Photo by Carter & Rose Photography

1. How are you leading a life ‘doing what you love’?

When I was young you would always find me doing something arty and crafty. This continued through school in art and photography, and towards the end of high school I knew that graphic design would be the perfect path for me.

My business provides the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing women, share my love of design with students in my blog design workshop, and have fun creating and developing new products and ideas.

2. What did you do before this?

After graduating from the Queensland College of Art with a Bachelor of Design, I spent four years working with various digital and web design studios.

*Creature Comforts Blog

3. What was the a-ha moment that pushed you to change?

The companies I worked for catered primarily to corporate businesses. Over time I found the working environment and creative process became tedious and uninspiring, and I was not at all suited to the 9 to 5 routine. I was interested in pursuing work that would allow me to collaborate with creative and passionate people, and put my efforts into my own business and not someone else’s.

4. How did you make it happen?

I began freelancing with new clients and immediately I loved the freedom of working on projects that suited a more feminine and artistic aesthetic.  It reignited my passion for design. After just a few months of freelancing I made the move to self-employment, and The Darling Tree was born.

I’m immensely lucky, in that the amazing people I have worked with have always been willing to spread the word about my business so I am continually introduced to more wonderful people and collaborations.

*Susannah Conway

5. What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it? 

Over the years I’ve struggled to pin down what offerings I should focus on, switching back and forth between only providing design services to also offering web development, as well as which side projects I should follow through with. Eventually I stepped back to see how I could provide the most value to a client or someone interested in design, and that is my design work, so now the business is focused on doing that and doing it well.

6. Who is your role model and why?

There are many women whom I really admire and respect, one of which is of course you, Beth.  You’re incredibly smart, kind, ambitious and organised — you really inspire me to achieve great things in my own life and business.

7. What is the best advice you have received?

Remove the word ‘but’ from your vocabulary and stop comparing yourself to the supposed competition… there is no competition!

*Your Darling Blog Design & Style Workshop

8. Why did you create the Your Darling Blog course and why is it special?

I decided to create the course when I found that bloggers were struggling with three different issues. The first was a lack of quality themes or templates available which catered to the feminine and creative blogging community. The second was not having the budget to hire a quality designer to design one for them. The third was the desire to create their own design but not knowing where to start.

Your Darling Blog not only teaches bloggers how to craft a beautiful blog page from scratch in Photoshop, but one that’s infused with their personality, brand, and voice. The option for one-on-one design feedback is perhaps the most valuable aspect of the workshop, providing a personal experience that isn’t available in many other online courses.

9. What is the one thing you wish people would think about before approaching a web/blog designer to work with?

You can help a designer immensely when you first contact them by providing them with some detailed information about your project – simply asking ‘how much for a website’ will not suffice. Consider sharing a little about yourself or your business, which pages you may need, what features might be required (blog, ecommerce, gallery), your budget etc. By doing so, the designer can determine if the project is a good match for them and get your discussions off to a nice start.

*Photo by Carter & Rose Photography

10. What is the big dream for your business?

I plan to branch out to include more products, courses (including live workshops) and web apps. I want to create new opportunities for business owners, bloggers and creatives to be connected to the design world and the growing business of online learning.

For more on Jo, her work, and to check out her blog, step on over to The Darling Tree - or wave hello on twitter or instagram!

***

GIVEAWAY!

THE PRIZE: Jo is offering a free place on her upcoming online course ‘Your Darling Blog‘ which I can say from experience is brilliant – beautifully designed, informative, easy to follow and really inspiring. If the time is right for you to make your blog more gorgeous, more enticing and more YOU, this is the course you need. This giveaway prize includes one-to-one feedback from Jo, and is valued at AUD$295 (approx USD$280).

TO ENTER: Check out the course here, then come back and leave a note in the comments below explaining why this course would be so good for you and your blog right now. Please include your full name, country, and what you blog about (or plan to blog about), plus a link to your existing blog if you have one.

DEADLINE: The giveaway closes at 12 noon EST / 5pm GMT on Friday May 24. Any comments left after this time will not be considered.

SMALL PRINT: There will be one winner who will be chosen from the entries after the deadline, and announced on this blog shortly afterward. The competition is open to anyone over 18 anywhere in the world, and is valid for the course beginning Monday May 27 2013. There is no cash alternative. Our decision on the winner is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

GOOD LUCK!

“This painting represent the birth of a new stage in my journey after this wonderful workshop. Thank you!” Ely Lugo

Here is the last of the beautiful posts showcasing work from our January 2013 Bloom True class. So much beauty. You can also view part 1, part 2 and part 3 here

Do you want to access your inner creativity, feel more connected to your life and feel confident to express your true self on canvas? Bloom True might just be for you. Take a look at these paintings created by participants of the class and find out more here.

“Here is a painting inspired by your course. Not at all what I expected and only 2 layers, but I love it” Sheri Ann Ponzi

 ”Once I put the first mark on the canvas it was carefree, fun and JoyFull!  If I became intimidated , I would remind myself “trust the process” and keep going!”  Erin McIntyre Coats

  “Flora, your honesty and vulnerability have allowed me to give myself permission to immerse body and soul into what makes me happy.”  michelle dyson

“It was such a wonderful experience working on this painting.  I wasn’t sure that intuitive painting would work for me because I usually plan things out in detail ahead of time.  I was surprised at the images that showed up, and surprised at how much they reflected my feelings at that time.”  Karen Scudder

 Laura Nisi

 ”This course has helped me open up and truly be brave with my art and my life. Thank you, Flora, for an amazing experience.” Ginger Burns

 ”Creating this painting really let me explore and find out what inspires me and truly makes me happy. I was able to let go of perfection and just enjoy creating.” Kayla Barker

 ”I loved taking Flora’s class.” Carolina Ellis

“Early layers of pain, anger and a tiny hole (the hole in my heart from Bryony’s suicide).  It ended with serenity – “all is well”.” Barbara Deacon

“A favorite first layer, funky pinks, horiffying black and white layer. Sit a week, more white and the dreaming lady appeared. Two more weeks. Expanded the fire. Etched words: ‘purifying’ rises in the flames. She hears ‘trust’ and ‘peace’ in the blowing of the shofar. We can find ‘knowing’ and ‘truth’ in the hardest of circumstances.” Agnes

“The course has been fantastic! I have learned so much. It was my first foray into painting with acrylics, and the intuitive painting that you teach has opened my eyes to so many things in life. Thank you!” Kathy Luber

 Bloom True is extraordinary – join us and experience it for yourself. The next class begins May 27 2013. Register now.

]]> http://dowhatyouloveforlife.com/blog/2013/05/22/bloom-true-gallery-part-4-jan-2013-class/feed/ 0 http://dowhatyouloveforlife.com/blog/2013/05/20/wedding-countdown-hen-do/ http://dowhatyouloveforlife.com/blog/2013/05/20/wedding-countdown-hen-do/#comments Mon, 20 May 2013 12:49:50 +0000 beth http://dowhatyouloveforlife.com/?p=9158 read more >>]]>

It feels a little strange writing about this now when my hen do was back in late March, but I made a decision to take 5 weeks off around my wedding and honeymoon, and that included virtually no blogging or social media – so now I am back I want to share it all with you, even if it is a little late!

For those of you who have never heard of a ‘hen do’, it is what brides call the party they have with their girl friends before getting married (and boys have a ‘stag do’). In the US I think the closest thing would be a ‘bachelorette party’, although hen dos here tend to include going away for several days.

Anyway, because we had decided on a tiny wedding, I felt strange about the idea of having a large hen do with lovely friends who weren’t coming to the wedding, so instead I decided to have the World’s Smallest Hen Do (WSHD) with just me and my best friend Heather.

Heather and I met at university nearly 20 years ago, and have been like sisters ever since. Everyone used to joke that we seem to come as a pair, often getting us mixed up (although I don’t think we look alike!). We were actually born on the same day, so share lots of Taurean traits, and have a great excuse for celebrating our birthdays together!

Tradition has it that the bride-to-be gets dressed up in a lot of pink (often including variations on cowboys/tiaras/feathers etc) and totters around town in very high heels and a very short dress, drinking a lot and cackling wildly. But that isn’t really my scene, so we went for something else. For the WSHD Heather and I decided to take a trip down memory lane, and go to a spa up in the North East of England, near where we went to university (in Durham). It was a blissful few days, where we got to catch up properly on the details of our lives, get pampered, skim stones at the beach, and blow away the cobwebs on a blustery visit to the coast. Just my kind of trip away. Here are some pictures from this very special time…

Zipping off in Heather’s sports car for a few days away

We went via one of the most fabulous bookshops I have ever been too – Barter books, inside an old railway station. (I know, who goes to a bookshop on their hen do? But you have to realise this was MY hen do and I love bookshops!)

Off to the lovely Doxford Hall hotel & spa

We got lost in the hotel’s maze…

And every day Heather surprised me with a little gift to help me prepare for married life!

We spent one wonderful evening an incredible restaurant IN THE TREES! 

(Above three images via The Treehouse Restaurant)

The Treehouse Restaurant is in the grounds of Alnwick Castle, where Harry Potter was filmed, and is as magical as you might imagine, and a whole lot more delicious than we had expected. You reach it via a wooden walkway and it is literally in the treetops.

(The North Face coat over a summer dress is never a good look, but it was freeeeeezing!)

We were blown along by crazy winds out at Bamburgh Castle

…where the shoreline reminded me of Cape Cod

…And we skimmed stones near the lifeboats at Seahouses, famous for the incredibly brave local resident Grace Darling (read more about her amazing story here)

Of course by then it was time for tea…

And we couldn’t resist this sweet little local shop with such a brilliant sign in the window (our kind of place).

We spent hours reminiscing about old times (shared adventures at uni, in Japan where we have both lived for several years, on holidays in Thailand, Greece and more…) and looked ahead to our plans and dreams for the future. What a special few days it was. We have decided to make it an annual thing, to get away in Spring for a few days, just the two of us.

And then it started to snow! We had to race back through the countryside to make it in time for my final wedding dress fitting, and this is what awaited when we got there:

A rowdy, drunken, sun-soaked hen do it wasn’t, but my kind of hen do it was. Thank you Heather!

Spending this Sunday morning going through our wedding photos. Brings back such happy memories… It was such an amazing day. Here’s a little sneak peek!

A flood of photos coming soon – hen do, wedding and honeymoon, with all the details – can’t wait to relive it all

Beth

(All images: NavyBlur)

“I now have a whole new outlook on painting. With Flora’s tools and encouragement I have truly Bloomed.  What a wonderful experience.” Karen Chrisman

Do you want to access your inner creativity, feel more connected to your life and feel confident to express your true self on canvas? Bloom True might just be for you. Take a look at these paintings created by participants of the class and find out more here.

Bloom True is extraordinary – join us and experience it for yourself. The next class begins May 27 2013. Register now.

“Having no focus or end point at the beginning, has been challenging but liberating and, my result has surprised me! This is my ‘bloom true’ !”  Sandie Whyte Routledge

“My old memories ties me down, but sometimes I’m a hummingbird – sipping nectar that fuels my soul. What a fantastic journey! I am able to walk through life with more intuition, bravery and playfulness – both when I approach my canvases and in my personal life. ” Lone soderberg

“This course has changed me forever. I have a new passion and I could almost say a new life as I feel so much more awake and alive! What a JOY” Lara Provost

Katy Shahandeh

“This painting started as two women, but changed into two bright, colorful and bold birds as I also changed and became bolder. Thank you Flora!” Ginny Riggle

“I discovered new ways to paint and enjoyed learning the layering techniques, playing and incorporating the world around me and eventually my dreams.” Suzi Poland

“Flora and Beth did an outstanding job creating the Bloom True class!  I learned a lot and enjoyed myself. And I love my painting“  Kathryn V. White

“My fearless bird flies into the darkness and breaks it apart leaving light, hope and possibility. This is what Flora did for us. Forever grateful…” Catherine Williamson,

Bloom True is extraordinary – join us and experience it for yourself. The next class begins May 27 2013. Register now.

Paul describes himself as “a newly married man in his mid thirties who, after years of coasting and watching life pass him by, has finally woken up!“

1. How are you leading a life ‘doing what you love’?

An interesting question! Ask me again in a year, as I am only in my first month on the job at Do What You Love! However what I am sure of is that is that after quitting my career of 12 years I have now given myself an opportunity to do what I love. I certainly feel as if I am on the right path to find fulfillment, pride and happiness in my work. At this moment in time I am fully focused and enjoying helping secure the future for my family.

2. What did you do before this?

I spent my childhood growing up all over the world, as my father worked overseas. I went to 12 different schools in Hong Kong, Iraq, Trinidad & Tobago, the Seychelles and beyond, before coming back to the UK for my GCSEs. Having spent so many years away, I then studied Civil Engineering and Construction Management at Leeds University and settled in Leeds where I have been ever since. I have spent the past 12 years building a career as a Civil Engineer.

3. What was you a-ha moment that pushed you to change your passion in life?

I don’t think there has been a particular a-ha or eureka moment, but there have been a couple of key episodes in my life which have subsequently prompted big decisions.

The first episode was when Beth (Founder of Do What You Love) walked into my life six years ago. Up to that point I had been cruising around in second gear, just doing enough. Watching and supporting Beth’s career changes, particularly the creation and building of Do What You Love, provided me with a reminder about what life should be about.

The second episode was when Beth and I took a sabbatical and lived in Kyoto (Japan) for six months last year. This ‘time out’ allowed me to readdress who I was and what I wanted. 

Taking tea in a Japanese garden in Kyoto during my sabbatical there

4. How did you make it happen?

Once I had made my decision I took a deep breath and discussed the situation with Beth. The decision was obviously going to affect both of us. The support I received was nothing but positive and I will never underestimate the importance of this. We (this is important) decided and agreed on an escape plan.

Interestingly I still found it hugely difficult to hand in my notice. I am not sure whether it was male pride, stubbornness or fear of the unknown, but the thought of starting something completely new in my mid 30s was proving difficult to compute. I was considering giving up a good career and relatively secure income in a recession, just before I was due to get married! In the end I asked myself the question “Do I love or even like what I am currently doing?” The answer was a resounding “no”. The next day I informed my Director. A few months on I now know that without a shadow of a doubt it was the one of the best decisions I have ever made.

5. What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?

I actually think my biggest challenge has been changing my career. Many close family and friends were not convinced that it was either sensible or correct. Maybe it wasn’t a sensible decision but every part of it felt so right. Interestingly, lots of my old colleagues reacted to my news of quitting with “Wow, I am so jealous!”

How did I overcome it? Knowing I had Beth’s unwavering support and blessing was huge. I was also pleasantly surprised to have complete support from my dad. I have to stress that my parents have been very supportive in everything I have done, but my dad is a Civil Engineer himself, and it is a career that he dearly loves. So to give it all up to pursue something I wasn’t 100% clear on certainly had an element of risk, and I wasn’t expecting him to be so behind me on my decision. Whose parents would not be concerned?

Since then I have taken everything step by step and I can honestly say that life seems extremely exciting again.

6. What is the best advice you have received?

Treat other people, as you would like to be treated yourself.  (my Dad).

With my new wife (Beth, founder of Do What You Love) on our recent honeymoon in Tuscany

7. What keeps you awake at night?

Hoping that I can be a good husband and hopefully one day a good father.

8. And what gets you up in the morning?

To see what the day has in store for us and what exciting plans/decisions we will make.

9. What is next for you?  

I have a few goals which I would like to pursue but I guess what I can say it feels like I have an exciting and full life ahead and I cannot wait to see how it unfolds.

 Stay tuned for Mr K’s brand new weekly column, coming soon to Do What You Love!

Click here for more interviews with inspiring people doing what they love.

A huge thank you to the 600+ people who entered our birthday giveaways (and for your lovely birthday wishes)! It was so moving to hear all the stories of kindness shared as you nominated friends for the Bloom True giveaway, and to hear why the Make Art That Sells and Creative Spark giveaways could be so good for you. We are only sorry that not everyone can win! Here are the lucky winners…

BLOOM TRUE the e-course

Our 10 free places on Bloom True with Flora Bowley go to:

*Baharem Amioi (nominated by Lorelei Broxson)

*Carol (nominated by Cathy Sloane)

*Rita Ball (nominated by Corina St Martin)

*Ara (nominated by Lisa Rydin Erickson)

*Cathy (nominated by Cindy Mori)

*Ivey Coleman (nominated by Kristen Lorenson)

*Maxine (nominated by Denise Daffara)

*Suki Ciappara Kapinao (nominated by Rachael Rice)

*Rosie Martinez Dekker (nominated by lots of people!)

*Linnea Rose (nominated by Ruthie Smith)

Congratulations to you all! We will be in touch with more course info.

If you didn’t win you can still join us for the course starting on Monday May 27 by registering here – or you could buy a gift voucher for your friend if you really want them to take the course. For gift voucher enquiries please email hello@braveintuitiveyou.com

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MAKE ART THAT SELLS

The free place on Part A of Make Art That Sells with Lilla Rogers goes to:

*Christine Lehto

Congratulations Christine! We will be in touch with more course info.

If you didn’t win but realise that this course is right up your street, you can still register here before class begins on June 3.

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CREATIVE SPARK book

The free copy of Tara Leaver’s new book goes to:

Shelley aka FussyPrincess

Congratulations – we will be in touch to get your postal address details!

If you didn’t win but really want a copy of the book, Tara is offering a special 15% discount if you purchase it via this link by Saturday 18 May using the discount code ‘CREATIVESPARK”.

Are you the next big thing? Are you ready to have your work shared with the world? Do you want to take your art career to the next level? If so, listen up. This is for you.

Lilla Rogers Studio is on the lookout for new talent and has launched a Global Talent Search to find it! Do What You Love is proud to be collaborating with Lilla Rogers Studio to bring you this incredible opportunity to showcase your work to the world.

The winner will be represented by Lilla Rogers Studio for two years internationally, and win a host of licensing contracts. This would be a turning point in your career.

Somebody has to win, and it might just be you!

How would you like to be represented by one of the top artist agents in the world, and see your work on products made for cool clients and distributed internationally? How would you like to be in demand, with hot new gig after hot new gig? How would you like to thrive as a full time artist or designer?

We are giving you the opportunity to get all this with the 2013 GLOBAL TALENT SEARCH.

For everyone who enters this is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your work. If you make the shortlist you will be featured in our online gallery. Your work will get in front of our incredible judging panel of top art directors and other industry experts including Anthropologie, Chronicle Books, Paperchase, Design*Sponge, Quarry Books and more. The process also features a public vote to pick a ‘People’s choice’ finalist.

Along the way you will have the chance to respond to professional level creative assignments, which in themselves will be valuable portfolio pieces.

So what are you waiting for? Find out more and ENTER NOW!

And if you know anyone who is ready for this exciting opportunity, please be sure to tell them about this!

Here at Do What You Love we are proud to be working with Lilla Rogers Studio to bring you this amazing opportunity. For further information and full Terms & Conditions please see www.lillarogers.com/global-talent-search

Time for some more Monday morning ponderings… we are bringing back our ‘Thought for the week’ series after a little break. And we are going to kick off with this!

Baby, you’re a firework. You’d better believe it. Go out and light up that sky…

“I’ve added layers of colour and texture to my paintings and to my life, blending Flora’s techniques with my own unique artistic voice.” Dominique Hurley

More of the beautiful work from Bloom True in January 2013.

Do you want to access your inner creativity, feel more connected to your life and feel confident to express your true self on canvas? Bloom True might just be for you. Take a look at these paintings created by participants of the class and find out more here.

“I loved the freedom and joy that I got from taking this class. I had wanted to paint larger paintings for a long time but really didn’t even know where to begin. I feel like I’m just at the beginning of a long journey that I can’t wait to take. It’s been invigorating, I’ve loved every minute.”  Jennifer Orkin Lewis

“Thanks so much for this fantastic class”  Roslyn Riley

“I am so happy with  Flora’s class.  I was able to create an intuitive painting while still staying true to my own style!” Debbie McCulley. 

“Now I can give myself room to really B-R-E-A-T-H-E and allow my authentic voice as an artist to be heard.  My paintings are becoming stronger and deeper than ever before!” Pamela Anne Cisneros

“This is my painting “springtime”. I never paint flowers but somehow these emerged on the painting. I guess I really long for spring to arrive after a long and grey winter because this came from within.  This course has been a beautiful and very special journey. ” Anja Berkers

Babi Sugarman

“I’m so grateful to have been a part of the Bloom True Journey. Learning to be brave and to let go is the best advice ever.” Mette Hummel Gabrielsen

“Thank you for the wonderful experience in the world of art. I have never painted before in my life -  these e-course  told me a lot about my soul.  I am very glad to got this wonderful impressions for all levels of live.” Monika Herzfeld

 ”This painting took many twists and turns, transforming from utter chaos to a serene and quiet place.  The ecourse was so much fun and a great learning experience.” Cynthia Anne Brown

“I learned so much about moving paint around the canvas from Flora’s class.  I’ll continue to practice all thanks to Flora!” John Treeful

“Where did this painting come from?  Glad I opened to receive it.  Amazing course. ” Laurel Valli

Bloom True is extraordinary – join us and experience it for yourself. The next class begins May 27 2013. Register now.

Today’s Do What You Love interview is with Tara Leaver, a self-taught artist exploring the exciting possibilities of paint from her home studio based in Brighton in the UK. I first met Tara when she came on the inaugural Do What You Love retreat back in 2011, and have been following her journey ever since. Tara has just self-published a new book ‘Creative Spark: {re}Igniting your Creativity with Everyday Wisdom‘ and I talked to her about the story behind this book, and how her battle with depression has brought her to a place where she is now doing what she loves, every day.

As an energy worker and creative guide, Tara uses her experiences with art making, her intuitive gifts and her knowledge of energy healing to encourage and support courageous souls on the journey back to their creative selves in her Creative Spark Sessions, run from her light filled studio. ‘Creative Spark: {re}Igniting your Creativity with Everyday Wisdom’ distils these sessions into a life and creativity manual for those who can’t make it in person but still want to find and nurture their own creative sparks.

PS Read through to the end to find out details of Tara’s giveaway!  THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED! WE WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS HERE ON THE BLOG NEXT WEEK.

‘I will hold the world’ by Tara Leaver

1. How are you leading a life ‘doing what you love’?

Two of my greatest loves in this life, art and the sea, are now a part of my daily life. I live just a minute’s walk from the beach in a light and airy flat with sea views and a dedicated art studio so I can work from home; it’s a dream come true. With the advantages that come with living in such a creative and alternative city, I can also fulfil two of my other lifelong dreams; developing my understanding of energy work and combining it with my creativity to be of service to others in finding their own unique creative spark.

2. What did you do before this?

Like many people I have done various things before finding and creating the conditions ~ both within and without ~ that enabled me to put long time dreams and ideals into practice. One of the side effects of having a good education often means you get indoctrinated with the belief you can’t make a living from creativity outside certain limited areas, so my route has been circuitous. I’ve done various deeply unsatisfying office and shop jobs {where I discovered I am never going to be a nine to five girl}, and I ran my own online ethical gifts business for three years. I’ve worked with children on and off since I was a teenager, and was a Montessori teacher for several years which I loved.

‘Move’ by Tara Leaver

3. What was your a-ha moment that pushed you to change / realise your passion in life?

I’d say it was more a string of moments than one defining one. I always had these vague but persistent ideas about combining creativity and helping people, but I didn’t know how they would manifest in my life, and for a long time I felt unqualified to even begin to explore that. I experienced depressive episodes for most of my life which impacted on any creative progress, but the dreams remained and reappeared when I came out of that dark time. I think that all the choices I made, and all the things that have happened, have been components for building the life I have now. Without losing my own creativity and carving my own path to rediscover it by following my instincts and intuition, I would not be in a position to help others on their own paths back to their creative selves.

4. How did you make it happen?

I think it was partly because this is who I am so it’s a dream I always return to, and partly because of the choices I made along the way. I always had a feeling that the desire to mix service with creativity would come together when it was ready, but it was on the back burner for a long time. In the meantime, I kept walking forward, trying things and discarding them if they weren’t right for me {not always as fast as I might have!}. When I moved to Brighton I found a Tai Chi teacher and Reiki master who has since become my mentor for navigating through life. Without her I absolutely would not be where I am now ~ depression free, back inhabiting my creative self on a daily basis, more balanced and stable than I’ve ever been, and finally with roots that enable me to offer myself in service using the gifts that come naturally to me.

‘Sacral’ by Tara Leaver

5. What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?

The depression for sure. I was undiagnosed for a really long time and just thought there was something horrendously wrong with me, and that everyone else knew a secret about how to live that I didn’t. The thing about depression is it numbs out all joy, including creative joy, so for several years I wasn’t making art, was living a very ‘surface’ life and wasn’t connected to myself at all. The journey back to myself has not been easy but is worth every step; I’m still on it of course but now I am much more in tune with myself and that has allowed my creativity to blossom. I went through all the therapy and medication like many people do, and while some helped, it never seemed to stick after I stopped. The one thing that has been healing in a real and lasting way has been working with my mentor; I am now a Reiki master and practice Tai Chi every day, I have a stronger connection to source and to myself, and that impacts in a miraculous way on every area of my life. Living by the sea, which I find so healing in itself, and taking the time to explore my creativity has helped immeasurably too.

6. What is the best advice you have received?

‘Be yourself’. It sounds so simple and it’s bandied about a great deal as if it’s the easiest thing in the world to do. In fact I think it’s easy to misinterpret it. I would adjust it to ‘Be your Self’. It can take a long time to find out who that is beyond conditioned patterns of behaviour. I’m still discovering that myself, but I do know that when I am in Flow, when I come from a place of expansiveness and clarity, the Self that I am connects more deeply and meaningfully with others in ways I could never predict, and that in doing that others feel seen and validated and therefore safe to venture into things. It’s very powerful. When I went to the Do What You Love retreat, I found a little note in my goodie bag saying ‘You are more powerful than you know’. I have it up on my notice board as a reminder that being my Self is where my power lies.

‘Alignment’ by Tara Leaver

7. What keeps you awake at night?

Ideas! I am always scrabbling about in the dark for paper and pencil; the ideas that come at night invariably disappear by morning. Also the self-worth thing; it’s a hallmark of depression but I actually think we all have it to some degree. It’s part of the ego’s attempts to keep us safe, misguided as they are. As much as I know that I am creating a life that reflects who I am and allows me room to breathe and flourish within that, I of course have fears and doubts like anyone else. What if I’m actually not that good at what I do? What if no one is interested? Is it really of value? I like that Marianne Williamson quote that is floating around a lot these days, about how hiding our own light serves no one.  It’s a good reminder that every single one of us has something to offer from the uniqueness of who we are; if you really take that on board, it removes any need for self -doubt and excuses! What you have and can do, no one else has and can do in the way you can, and that makes it instantly valuable.

8. And what gets you up in the morning?

Knowing I can construct my days according to my needs, the freedom that gives me, knowing my art studio is upstairs ready for me to go and play in, and that I am finally able to do work that is meaningful to me and adds value to others. Living on the surface of life was very damaging for me; now that I am embracing the part of me that wants to go deep and long, as opposed to shallow and wide, life becomes much more exciting and full of potential.

9. How did your book come about? 

I’ve always loved words and writing, and I always wanted to write a book. When I was younger I knew I needed more life experience if I was going to write something worth reading, so it went on the back burner with the other dreams. While I was developing the idea for the Creative Spark Sessions last year, I just suddenly sat down one day and started writing. I wrote every day for ten days, and that was the bulk of it down. It just poured out.

I decided to go the self-publishing route for various reasons; partly because I am not a known or established artist or author and it was kind of an experiment, partly because the book is quite small, and partly overwhelm about what was involved in approaching publishing houses! I know someone who uses CreateSpace to self-publish their books, and after looking into Lulu and Blurb it seemed like the best option. It was a steep learning curve, and without the help of Pauline Leger, my graphic designer, I would have been lost in terms of designing the cover and layout of the book, which are key, especially in a book about creativity which is so visual. It also helps to have someone to discuss ideas with and keep your spirits up when things get tricky! I wouldn’t say self-publishing is a simple process but CreateSpace are very helpful, and a greater understanding of the technical side of things than I have is going to help you a great deal. If you’re prepared for meeting all obstacles with optimism and patience, and for the process to take a lot longer than you imagined, you’ll navigate it much more easily. {Feel free to apply that to life too!}

10. Who is your book for? What do you want your book to do for them?

‘Creative Spark‘ caters to three main types of people {they can overlap}; those who don’t consider themselves creative at all but feel something is missing, those who harbour secret desires to explore their creativity but are nervous about it, and those who are already on their creative path but have perhaps lost their way or find themselves in a rut.

My desire is to show how ‘being creative’ is nothing to do with being able to draw, which many people seem to believe; it is so much more than that. My experience has shown me that everyone is creative in their own unique ways; it’s actually not that big a deal, it’s simply the nature of being human, and it gives me such joy to be able to share that with people who are afraid or unsure or overwhelmed by what’s possible. It lights people up to discover parts of themselves that not only did they not know were there, but that they also really like, and it’s a privilege to be able to witness that and encourage it. The book offers support, ideas, inspiration, and everyday grounded wisdom that applies to both creativity and life. I cover the issues I’ve found come up repeatedly around the area of creativity, such as resistance, time, how to make it work for the way your life is set up, self-doubt, fear and all the best ways I’ve found to help move through these to inspiration. I believe that the best ideas work across the board, and I have certainly found that the lessons I learn in day to day life translate to the canvas and vice versa.

***GIVEAWAY!*** Tara is kindly giving away a free copy of her lovely new book

TO ENTER: Just leave a comment underneath this interview saying why YOU need to reignite your creativity, and how you think this book will help you do that!

DEADLINE: 12 noon GMT on Saturday May 11 2013.  THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED! WE WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS HERE ON THE BLOG NEXT WEEK.

NOTES:  The winner will be chosen at random from the comments left below this post by the deadline. Do What You Love’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. This competition is open to anyone from any country over 18 years of age. The winner will be announced on this blog next week. Thank you and good luck!

All images courtesy of Tara Leaver. Find out more about Tara on her website or blog, or connect on Facebook or Instagram (@taraleaver). You can see her online shop here and buy her new book here.

Click here for more interviews with inspiring people doing what they love.

Lilla is the founder of Lilla Rogers Studio, a visionary art agency that represents artists from around the world. An accomplished illustrator and painter herself, she has been in the business for over three decades. The Studio’s client list includes Crate & Barrel, Pier One, Land of Nod, Chronicle, the New York Times, Moda, Blue Q, Crate & Barrel, Paperchase, and hundreds more.

The Studio represents some of the most sought-after artists worldwide and has licensed their artwork on a huge variety of products, such as bathing suits, teacups, scrubs, bathmats, puzzles, piggybanks, clocks, paper lanterns, children’s books, wall décor, and much more.

I talked to Lilla about how she got here, where she is going, and what is behind her mission to ‘create brilliant careers for talented artists’.

1. How are you leading a life ‘doing what you love’?

What’s so great about my work is that I get to do such a vast array of things, such as working with my brilliant artists and Studio Ladies who I adore, strategising promotionals, discovering new technologies, selecting the very best next artists to represent, finding lucrative new art markets and clients, studying trend and creating trend reports for my artists, and schmoozing with some of the best art directors in the business.  I had to create the job for me; it wasn’t out there waiting for me! Plus I’m the kind of person that needs a lot of freedom in my daily life.  I like to work various hours – sometimes I work really, really hard and sometimes I take more time for myself.  I wanted a ‘job’ where I could work at home while raising my kids, whilst having very rewarding creative work.

2.  What is your mission statement?

To create brilliant careers for very gifted artists.

Some of Lilla’s illustration jobs

3. What was you a-ha moment that pushed you to realise your passion in life?

Some pivotal events:

-In my early twenties: I was a middle school art teacher in Pennsylvania but after 3 years I knew I had to leave and take the risk of trying to make it as an artist. I gave up tenure and moved from the East coast of the USA to the West coast. I was scared but determined.

- I was studying painting at the Art Institute in San Francisco, but when I saw what was happening in illustration at the Academy of Art in San Francisco, I fell in love and switched gears – and schools – and pursued an MFA in Illustration.

- Although I was living in dreamy San Francisco, I knew I had to move to New York City to make it as an illustrator, which I did.  Scary, but it all worked out and was a dream come true

- After a decade as a very busy full-time freelance illustrator and a teacher, one day one of my students said, “Why don’t you become our agent?” and it was like a bolt of lightening hitting me.  I felt as though it was an inevitability; it was as if I had no choice.  It was just meant to happen, even though it didn’t make sense and wasn’t part of my “big plan”.  I loved the idea and dove right in.  My illustration business boot-strapped the agency in the beginning!  I can’t tell you how happy the business makes me!  I’m very challenged and never bored.

- Recently, after about 18 years as an agent and as my kids were getting ready to leave the nest, out of the blue I was offered a book deal and an e-course deal.  Working on these are my new passions! It’s as though everything I know has led me to this point, and now I can help tons more artists on a larger scale.

5. What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?

When you’re type A, you like to give 110%, which is great for achieving success, but can wear you out at times. The challenge is knowing when to give 110% and when to give less.  I do like delegating to my staff.  I trust them.  And I constantly prioritise, make lists, and organise. I must continually balance my worklife with other facets of life. Now I’m at the point where exciting opportunities come along very often and I know I can’t do them all, even though I would love to!  It’s a great problem to have, and I’m grateful.

6. What is the best advice you have received?

Get more help!

7. What keeps you awake at night?

That varies over the years.  But as a mother, worrying about my kids can keep me up.

8. And what gets you up in the morning?

Having to get to my trainer and yoga three mornings a week, and driving my daughter to school!  But I know what you mean.  What gets me up in the morning is the variety of very cool projects that I get to work on.  I’m at the point in my career where I only work on what I do best and what I really want to do.

Filming for Make Art That Sells

9. How has the experience of creating the e-course Make Art That Sells been for you? What do you want your course to do for the people who take it?

I absolutely am in love with creating this course (see below for your chance to win a free place!).  After three decades in the business of helping artists achieve amazing art careers and getting them work they never knew existed I have so much to share.  My mission has always been to help creative people succeed, and this allows me to do so on a massive scale.

I particularly love inspiring artists and creating course content.  Let me give you some examples of the juicy awesomeness in the course:

* Every week there is a professional level assignment tailored for a particular market, and I review all work and provide critique to a handful – this is shared in class so everyone can learn from each other

* Interviews with art buyers like Anthropologie, Chronicle, and PaperChase sharing what kind of art they buy and how they find it.  Amazing, right?

* Interviews with my highly-sought-after artists sharing what their day-to-day life is like (and some tricks of the trade!)

* Terrific, fresh assignments specifically geared to help artists land new work

* Weekly videos with me in my Studio showing you tons of great products and inspiration

* A ton of downloadable PDFs full of helpful information like time management for creative people

* Really fun and inspiring mini assignments on Mondays to get you ready for the big assignment on Wednesday and lots more.

10. What is next for you?  

Get ready to freak out (in a good way!)…

After working on this intensely for some time, Beth and I are incredibly excited about our second collaboration – next week we will launch…

…a Global Talent Search for hot new art talent!

We’ll provide a series of art challenges over the course of several weeks, and there will be several rounds of judging.

The winner wins a two-year contract for representation by Lilla Rogers Studio, plus a number of awesome licensing agreements!

This is sure to blast an artist’s career into the stratosphere.  We already have some of our art director clients wanting to get their hands on our winner! We formally launch on May 14 but you can get on the waiting list here to be the first to hear!

11.  Anything else you want to add?

I hope my story inspires others to go after what they really want.

All images courtesy of Lilla Rogers. Find out more about Lilla on her website, or connect on Facebook or Twitter. Find out more and register for Make Art That Sells here, buy her book ‘I Just Like To Make Things’ here or get on the waiting list for the Global Talent Search here!

GIVEAWAY! One free place on Part A of Make Art That Sells (online course begins June 3 2013) – prize worth £379 (over $500)!

We are giving away a free place on our brand new online course ‘Make Art That Sells’, which begins on June 3 2013. If you would like to learn how to make more commercially viable art while staying true to yourself then this course is for you. After three decades in the business Lilla has so much to share and she does it generously throughout this course. You will get professional level creative assignments each week, tailored to a particular market, and Lilla will review every single piece of work submitted. She will also offer critique of a handful of pieces each week and share this in class so everyone can benefit. If you are serious about a flourishing career in art, this is for you!

TO ENTER: Check out the course here and leave a comment below this interview saying which of the five markets covered in Part A is most interesting to you and why, and tell us why this course would be so great for your art career right now. Please leave your full name and country in the comment box along with your response.

DEADLINE: The deadline for entries is 12 noon GMT on Saturday 11 May 2013.  THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED! WE WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS HERE ON THE BLOG NEXT WEEK.

NOTES: The winner will chosen at random from valid entries and will be announced next week! If you have already registered for the course and win, then you will have your class fee refunded. Do What You Love’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. This competition is open to anyone from any country over 18 years of age. Thank you and good luck!

GOOD LUCK!

‘Transform’ Flora Bowley

Flora Bowley and I are doing a giveaway with a difference today. We are offering TEN free spots in our upcoming e-course Bloom True, but to enter you have to nominate someone else! We want to give away these ten spots to ten kind, thoughtful, generous souls who could benefit from a five-week painting and life adventure.  THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED! WE WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS HERE ON THE BLOG NEXT WEEK.

Here are a few things previous participants have said about the course:

“Be ready for it and Flora will bring it to you! Freedom you never knew you had with art!! And it brings something out in you that you thought you had but were never sure!”

“Brilliant, invaluable for those on a creative journey, a “must-do’ if you are stuck and want to move yourself to a higher creative level.”

“Mindblowing! If you are willing to let go, to really stop and listen to what your own heart is telling you, you will be amazed at what blooms true. Do it!”

 “I would highly recommend the class to anyone interested in a holistic embracing life changing experience, it’s not just about painting but a great place to start if you’re new to painting.”

“This course has impacted so many areas of my life and just the way I experience and respond to each day. I feel more ‘aware’ and definitely more BRAVE (I’m getting there, anyway!). I’ve been inspired, encouraged and nourished. I’ve begun to learn how to let go, be bold and to embrace joy and to trust my own creative process.”

Do any of those things make you think of a particular person who could really benefit from this course because of what has been going on in their life recently? Or someone who you know is creatively stuck and wants to explore intuitive painting and a new kind of creative freedom? Or perhaps someone who has just been really kind to you, who really deserves it? If so please read on…

The prize: Ten individual spots in Bloom True the e-course (runs for 5 weeks from May 23 2013, delivered online*)

*Please note the prize does not include materials which must be gathered by the person taking the course.

How to enter: Check out the course website to find out more about it, and then leave a comment below, telling us about you and your nominee and why they deserve/need Bloom True.

Deadline: 12 noon GMT on Saturday 11 May 2013.  THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED! WE WILL ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS HERE ON THE BLOG NEXT WEEK.

Notes: The winner will be chosen by Flora Bowley based on the comments left below this post. Flora’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. This competition is open to anyone from any country over 18 years of age. The winner will be announced on this blog next week. Thank you and good luck!

Me and my BFF Heather heading off on my hen do a few weeks back (more on that coming soon!)

Hello 36! It’s my birthday today, and I am celebrating with my bestest buddy and our two fellas. We were born on the same day (honestly!) and used to always celebrate together, but this will be the first time in several years we have got together on our joint birthday and I cannot wait.

The weather forecast is for glorious sunshine, and the sea is calling. I am hoping today will be full of laughter and fun as we enter into our ‘late thirties’.

A year ago today my man proposed, and ever since this last year has been such a huge one in my life (sabbatical on the other side of the world, wedding, honeymoon and all sorts of other adventures). But as so much of that is coming up on the blog in the next few weeks instead, today I am just going to say this:

(1) I feel happier in my life right now at 36 than I ever have

(2) I am grateful for so much – family, friends, shiny new husband, adventures, business, YOU and more

(3) I want you to celebrate with me, so all this week I am doing some crazy giveaways here on the blog. Here’s what’s coming up:

TUESDAY: Giving away TEN free places on Bloom True with Flora Bowley!

WEDNESDAY: Giving away a free place on Part A of Make Art That Sells with Lilla Rogers! (plus a fab interview with Lilla that you don’t want to miss!)

THURSDAY: Giving away a free copy of Tara Leaver’s new book ‘Creative Spark: (re)igniting your creativity with everyday wisdom’ (and I share a great interview with Tara too)

All these giveaways will be open from the time they are posted until 12 noon GMT on Saturday 11 May 2013, so be sure to check in every day and enter! You can enter as many of them as you like. GOOD LUCK and happy birthday me!

“I loved painting this, with all those new lovely colors.” Bente Kjeldsen

We are so excited to showcase some of the gorgeous work that emerged from the January 2013 class of Bloom True.

Do you want to access your inner creativity, feel more connected to your life and feel confident to express your true self on canvas? Bloom True might just be for you. Take a look at these paintings created by participants of the class and find out more here.

Bloom True is extraordinary – join us and experience it for yourself. Class begins May 27. Register now.

“This is more than a class on technique…it is about using your intuition in your art and in your daily life….life-changing.” Connie Jeffrey

Line Jordan Bank

“This painting must have about 8 or 9 layers.  The humming bird is little bird I rescued one day as he kept trying to fly into my studio.  So many layers covered all the drips and other items I had originally tried to follow in Flora’s painting lessons but somehow my brush took over. ” Liz Lawrence

“Although I didn’t have any idea of what would show up in my painting (fish- really?!), I love the result, and embraced the process of what it took for me to get there.”  Valerie Rosenthal Hebert

“I loved every challenge in the birthing of this piece, and marveled in the end as “Gathering energy from the tree of life” was born” Angela Murray

“Blue on Blue” born from colors which I normally shy away from, and yet colors which speak my truth from deep within.  I feel reborn.” Marti Torres

“Eve’s Garden” – A nude female torso emerges in a garden, plump snake rises up to her left, abundant red symbolizes the divine feminine life force.” Suzanne Benjamin

“letting go of my tightly held brush, and my need to know. I let life flow into and out of me onto the canvas…I am changed forever.” Colleen Talbot

“Many changes, many layers of paint, many struggles with brush and mind, definitely created the piece I feel speaks most true to me.” Emily Mitchell

“Magical — the process, the e-course, the results. I never imagined I could ever create a painting like this, yet I did! Thanks, Flora, for sharing your magic.” Gwendolyn Johnson

Bloom True is extraordinary – join us and experience it for yourself. Class begins May 27. Register now.

You know when you have been away from something for a while, and things have piled up, and somehow you need to attack the mountain but just can’t bring yourself to do it? That’s what it feels like with blogging right now. I have SO much to share with you after an incredible few weeks off for my wedding and honeymoon – we were showered with love and I don’t know enough ways to say thank you to so many different people. But somehow it is hard to know where to begin!

So I am going to ease myself in gently with this little musing about gardening, and tell myself that I’m not really procrastinating about sharing everything else…

Last summer brought so much rain to the North of England that our garden became an explosion of green. The black bamboo has gone wild and shoots way up into the sky. The wisteria has climbed thick across the canopy which hangs over our little sunken table. And there are lots of (pretty) weeds around. So we decided to do some gardening – starting with getting rid of the old water feature put in by the previous owners of the house, and replacing it by a sawn-off beer barrel filled with pink and white pansies.

Doing physical work in the garden felt so good – I loved picking away at the earthy compost with radio tunes wafting through the air. I felt like I had earned my achy back, and the cups of tea tasted even better outside.

I think the thing I liked the best was the fact that my head pretty much emptied of anything while I was working with the soil. My head is normally a very busy place, so it was a kind of meditation to me.

I have to confess I know very little about gardening, but I would love to learn more. Our neighbours are fantastic, dedicated gardeners who spend hours and hours plucking and trimming, sweeping and nurturing, and their garden looks gorgeous as a result. Maybe this can be a new hobby for me in the years ahead? Anything that wears the body but relaxes the brain sounds like a good tonic to me.

Are you green fingered? What is it you love about gardening? Any top tips for a novice like me?

Paper and illustration obsessive Clare Shields established stationery and homeware brand Lil3birdy in 2011.  Naïve in style, the products aim to stir up imagination and fun into the home.  All the designs started life from Clare’s London studio as ink drawings and are developed into a range of desirable products. Everything is manufactured in England and ethically sourced, and all paper products are made from renewable resources. I talked to Clare about growing her business, overcoming challenges and what gets her up in the morning.

1.     How are you leading a life ‘doing what you love’?

I run Lil3birdy from my home studio on my own, I do everything from designing and production to PR and marketing.

2.     What did you do before this?

Before I set up Lil3birdy, I worked for a short while as a freelancer designing textile prints for several international design studios.  Previously, I worked in luxury fashion marketing for two years.

3.     What was your a-ha moment that pushed you to change / realise your passion in life?

I’ve dreamt of working for myself and creating something of my own since my student years in textile design.  After graduating I felt I needed a bit of time to learn about how a creative company operates before I went alone.  After three years of industry experience I felt ready to work on a product range of my own.

4.     How did you make it happen?

In the beginnings of Lil3birdy I made my own products at home.  I was making greeting cards, postcards and gift tags at this point.  I would print and cut everything, which was very time consuming but it was a cheap and convenient way to get started and experiment with ideas.  In order to test the response of the public and market my first design range, I signed up to some London markets in summer 2011.  I also opened an Etsy.com shop.  My debut market was Of Cabbages & Kings in North London, which is an established designer/maker market.  After a successful first season of sales, I was given the opportunity to meet with some buyers from House of Fraser for their new Mary Portas concession and they placed a wholesale order.  Since then I’ve been building up my stockists list and promoting my growing online shops.

5.     What has been your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge through out this journey has been to find good quality manufacturers in the UK.  I have experienced many disastrous product runs and after many orders with different companies I’ve established some fantastic contacts with manufacturers whom I hope to continue using.

6. Who is your role model and why?

I don’t aspire to a particular person but admire people who have worked hard to make a successful and rewarding career from their craft.

7. What is the best advice you have received?

Try everything

8. What keeps you awake at night?

Ideas I have for the business

9. And what gets you up in the morning?

Knowing I have a plan for the day.  I list all my tasks for the year, month and week in advance.

10. What is the big dream for your business?

My future plans for the business is to exhibit at a trade show in 2014 to meet more retailers and establish a larger collection of Lil3birdy stockists.  As well as my current stationery and homeware products, I would like to expand the product range to educational gifts for small children.

All images courtesy of Clare Shields. Find out more about Clare on her website or connect on Facebook or Twitter.

Click here for more interviews with inspiring people doing what they love.

Wow, what an incredible few weeks it has been. First the wedding (amazing, so much fun!) and then the honeymoon (dreamy, wonderful) and now my new husband has quit his job to work for Do What You Love!!!

I have so much to tell you, and so much exciting news to share, but I am going to do it bit by bit.

Firstly – my new name! I am now called Mrs Beth Kempton! I think it will take me a couple of years to get used to it…

I hope you will excuse me if I am a little self-indulgent over the next few weeks, sharing lots of pictures from our honeymoon in Italy and then of the big day itself (those pictures are due in the next couple of weeks – can’t wait!).

It was such a treat to take 5 weeks off to focus on this precious time, and I look forward to reflecting on all the details of it on this blog over the coming weeks.

We have a brand new website and lots more exciting news coming in June, but until then, forgive me for making this place wedding central!

***

For any of you looking to spring into Spring with a creative course, Module 1 of The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design ‘Designing your way’ starts on Monday. Find out more and register here!

And if you are more advanced in your designs and want to start making money from your work, Module 3 ‘Monetising your designs’ could be right up your street. This course also starts on Monday. Find out more and register here!

We are so thrilled to announce that Artscase will be joining us as one of our fabulous & industry leading contributors to the ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’! In Module 3 (which starts on Monday) our students will be able to take part in a live brief created by Artscase exclusively for the e-course! 

Artscase are passionate about style.  Their team ‘focuses on not compromising functionality over good looks!’ Their brand is about introducing personal devices that match your lifestyle & personality!

Artscase have been really supportive of our  students and have even licensed work from some our alumni! Below you can examples of our talented graduates’ work with Artscase.

Don’t miss out! Sign up for Module 3 ‘Monestising Your Designs’ (starts Monday) if you want to learn about freelancing, licensing, selling outright, manufacturing & more! If you need to start making more money from your designs, this is for you!

Or if you are just starting out, Module 1 – ‘Designing Your Way’ will give you everything you need to get started as a surface pattern designer. This course also starts on Monday. Find out more and register here.

 ”The ABSPD e-courses are so packed with information, encouragement, and resources, that they truly have been life-changing for me. Although I have no design background and am still learning what “my style” truly is, I feel confident that if I continue on with the exercises and keep putting my work out there, I will find my place in the surface pattern design world. Thank you so much!” Mimi Todd

Here is our final post of the beautiful work from our very talented Module 3 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’who took the course in January 2013. Here are more of our fantastic students & the work they have created over the 5 weeks in class. You can also view part 1, part 2 and part 3 here

 ”It has been pleasure to participate in all three modules. It has been a great learning experience but also a great place to meet fellow pattern fanatics to connect and share our daily struggles and help & motivate each other.”  Laura Bieza

‘The ABSP course has been inspiring and life-changing. I’ve at last found confidence in my designing skills and rediscovered the joy of drawing and creating. I’d recommend it to anyone.’ Liz Minton

“I think the best thing about this course is the communication between all the students.  It’s really given me the confidence boost I needed to help push my designs and artwork forward, and has introduced me to some fantastic designers!  For someone who hadn’t used Photoshop or Illustrator much, the workshops as well have been really informative and have really improved my computer design skills.” Louise Dewsnap 

“The most powerful element of the Module 3 course was the enormous number of possibilities that have opened up for me: there are so many ways to be a surface pattern designer, and now I am armed with all the information to find the best way forward for me personally. Through the course, I have developed as a designer by identifying my love of simple, elegant, floral/nature designs, and am initially focusing on creating a stationery range.” Sue Brown – SusieBDesigns

“The course has been very empowering along with all the valuable information shared. I now feel that I’m up to date with the industry and in a position to move my business to the next stage!” Lesley Todd

“I wish I had discovered this course years ago, as it has opened my eyes to so much. It has taught me to believe in my potential, not to be frightened of giving it a go, and made me realise that there are so many possibilities and options out there in the world of pattern and design!” Esme Sharples

“When I started this course I was very unclear where my creative carrer was heading. Now at the end, I’m starting my own t- shirt business. I have learnt so much from this course and would recommend anyone to give it a go, there is so much you can take from it. What makes the course so unique is that all the information comes from the perspective of some successfully in the business. Worth every penny!” Drew Lane

“Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and all the opportunities you’ve given us. I feel much more confident and prepared to put into action what I’ve learnt and it’ll certainly help me to achieve my dreams and turn it into reality. This is a life-changing course! I’m so grateful I met you and I had the opportunity to be inspired and supported by a great and united community.” Evelyn Cassoli

“I’m someone who hasn’t taken any formal design studies but I’m really keen to strike out in a new direction and ‘do what I love for life’. So, for me, the course not only provided all the information and knowledge I need to embark on my new venture but also gave me the confidence to believe in myself.” Carole Seawert

“I’ve found this course to be brilliant on many levels. It has assisted me enormously in improving my overall pattern design skills and concepts, taught me how to structure, plan and build a portfolio of pattern design collections, and helped me to view and approach my business on a far more professional basis.” Mariana Musa

“What I loved most about the course was that Rachael gave us permission to be creative and not feel guilty about indulging in doodle heaven! She also strengthened my belief that anything is possible with enough determination and self belief.” Lisa Deighan

“This design led course provides stimulating challenges in a wonderful supportive group environment, pushing individual boundaries”. Lisa Todd

“I have completed all three modules of the ABSPD course and have found it invaluable. Not only has it allowed me to reconnect with my creative side but it has made it realistic on how to turn this into a business. I connected strongly with the business side of the course as it gave me a purpose. Never had I considered using my creativity and turning it into a venture….until now.” Mel Pope

***

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series with module 1, module 2 and module 3 (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from more of our talented students, you can also read our lovely testimonials.

We also have Module 3 ‘Monetising Your Designs‘ starting on April 29th, 2013.

 ”For me the most powerful element of the course has been finding my own style, and having the confidence to explore it and put it to good use. I’m now full of ideas I can’t wait to get started on, and feel very excited about future possibilities.” Jessica Wilde

We are really pleased to showcase part 3 of the beautiful work from our very talented Module 3 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’who took the course in January 2013. Here are more of our fantastic students & the work they have created over the 5 weeks in class.

“Having come into surface pattern design last year with no real knowledge, ABSPD gave me a thorough, broad spectrum look into the field, now a viable career choice for me.  Rachel is a champion of originality and she’s really bolstered my courage; I’m excited for my future in design!”  Tina Wilson

“I really appreciate the comprehensive nature of this course – from where to find inspiration, sketching, developing my portfolio and going out into the big world of surface design business.  I now have a clear agenda and am excited to pursue my dreams in this profession!”    Mi Jung Lee

“I was very impressed by this inspiring and comprehensive course.  I have a textiles background and I took the course in order to new techniques for creating patterns, find out about the business side of things, and to learn about the industry today. I think this course has provided me with all of that and much more!!” Wini Dougall

“The completion of Modules 2 and 3 of the course, have inspired me to believe in myself as designer and have given me the confidence to realise my potential; whether it be a career in freelance design or setting up my own business, the advice you have given me has been invaluable.”  Sian Alexandria Leach

“The most powerful element of the course for me – was being able to clearly see what direction I wanted to go in as a designer. It has highlighted to me that if I want to concentrate of paper products I must achieve a certain standard and be able to work quickly and efficiently and the course has taught me how to do this. It has been a brilliant experience all round.” Trina Esquivelzeta

“The best investment in time, money and creativity I’ve ever had. Tons of fun while learning so much about the Art and Business of Surface Design.” Natacha Devaud

“I think being able to learn directly from the experience of successful designers like Rachael Taylor is the most powerful element of this course. The ABSPD course has given me the confidence and tools I needed to take my love for patterns to a professional level. It has helped me find my style and gave me invaluable insight into the surface pattern world. This course is definitely the best gift I’ve ever given myself.” Daniela Butunoi

“I really like that we are given the right tools to get started in this business. Exiting exercises and lots of inspiration and motivation has helped me work hard to get my new website up and running and lots of new work to show off. Just a few days after the course ended, I got a license deal. Love it!” Magnus Riise

“This course has been a life changing experience it has given me the tools and confidence to show my patterns and have reached places that I had never imagined I was going to be capable of.” Laura Escalante 

 ’The optimism and energy that Rachael and Beth bring to the ABSPD course seems to permeate everyone and everything involved in it, resulting in a really positive and supportive environment. It has helped me to focus and realise that inspiration can be found anywhere, which is a gift I will always keep with me. Thanks for a super experience!’ Ilze van der Poll

“Having completed all three modules of the course, I now feel I’m in a much better position to move forward with my ideas and designs. The most important development for me has been discovering my signature style. I can now begin to see how I can develop and move forward. I can’t thank Rachel, Beth and the team enough for all of the advice and information we have been provided with. Combined with support of the rest of the group, my passion for wanting to work on and develop my own brand has been reignited.”  Amy Watson

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series with module 1, module 2 and module 3 (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from more of our talented students, you can also read our lovely testimonials.

We also have Module 3 ‘Monetising Your Designs‘ starting on April 29th, 2013.

“The course has given me the confidence to really go for it and follow my dream to work for myself and be my own boss. I will always be grateful for the boost it has given me.” Charlotte Duffy

We are really pleased to showcase the beautiful work from our very talented Module 3 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ who took the course in January 2013. We will be publishing four posts over the next week, showcasing our fantastic students & the work they have created over the 5 weeks in class.

“The company of the community of artists/designers and their feedback and support has been the most valuable aspect of the course for me.” Judy Adamson

“The art and business surface design course was an amazing experience, not only did it provide me with invaluable knowledge about the industry, I have also met some amazing people who I now call my design community! We are always there to help, advise and support each other and it’s great feeling to know your not on your own in your journey.” Rebecca Wilson -  Beckabonce

“This course has transformed my life and I am now at the start of an exciting new creative journey that 6 months ago I could never have imagined. It has been inspiring, exciting and jam packed full of information and I am now part of an amazingly supportive group of like-minded creative people that is invaluable.” Ruth Thorp Studio

“The ABSPD course empowered me to go from dreaming into doing! The inspiring visual content really helped me to understand the real world possibilities for my creative work in today’s markets and how to go about getting it there!” Laura Wooten

“Module 3 was packed full of practical information that has helped me to define the future of my business. The group of designers in Module 3 is top-class, constantly inspiring and challenging me to produce better work!” Jessica Woodfield

“The most powerful element of the course for me was the pace of it and this got faster in module 2 then module 3 as I began taking all the information on board. It took a long time for me to accept my signature style – I had a bit of a fight with it but eventually it took over and I started producing work I really liked, that seemed to be ‘me’….now I can concentrate on developing it further.” Jannie Shepherd

“It was great to learn the ins and outs of the business side of the industry. I
particularly enjoyed the interviews during this model, hearing first hand
experiences of top designers.” Frances Boyd

“One of the best decisions I have made in a long time was to sign up for this course. I am on my way to realizing my dream. I am also so grateful for the talented and supportive group of fellow pattern lovers I have met as a consequence”. Carol Robinson

 ”This course has provided me with endless knowledge about the actual business side of surface design, and most importantly it has encouraged and motivated me to make my dream job a reality!” Melissa Nicholson

“I have gained such an insight into the pattern design industry from this course, along with invaluable contacts, technical knowledge and a great community of fellow designers!” Bethan Lumb

“Thanks to the course I met fantastic people and I’m now more than confident that nothing is impossible, you just have to go for it!” Nadine Mnemoi

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series with module 1, module 2 and module 3 (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from more of our talented students, you can also read our lovely testimonials.

We also have Module 3 ‘Monetising Your Designs‘ starting on April 29th, 2013.

“Module 3 was full of so much information, information that it is very hard to find out otherwise. It’s given me the confidence to pursue trade shows and licensing as the next steps for my design business.”  Sam Osborne

We are really pleased to showcase the beautiful work from our very talented Module 3 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’! who took the course in January 2013. We will be publishing four posts over the next week, showcasing our fantastic students & the work they have created over the 5 weeks in class.

“This course has helped me immensely. It has given me the skills and confidence to believe in myself as a designer” Chloe Wood

“Aside from being an incredible artistic journey, I am thrilled to have made so many wonderful inspiring and supportive friends through the course. The Ecourse has exceeded my expectations in every possible area!” Brenda Sutton- Go Benny Go

“One word that sums up what this course meant and still means to me would be Liberation! This course has liberated all my creativity, my thirst to make, my enthusiasm, my love, my strength, my perception and my curiosity.” Andrea Rincon- Anchobee Designs

“After taking all 3 modules of ABSPD the most important thing I have learned is to be true to my inner artist. And of course all the tutorials and insider business information was great as well!” Kelly Preusser

“The course has given me a massive amount of information to process, and a new found confidence in my work. I now have an amazing group of new friends to support me on the next leg of my journey into Surface Pattern, Thankyou!” Wendy Flynn – Doris & Fred

“The course provided me with the inspiration and knowledge to actually go and take my work forward in a way I had been unable to before, the business advice shared was invaluable as well as the creative exercises helping me to find my ‘style’ which I had struggled with in the past. Anyone thinking of doing the course  I’d say – don’t hesitate, you wont regret it, its an investment in yourself.” Jess Lewis

“Being a self-taught designer I have found the technical workshops invaluable. Also the amount of information shared was immense, a resource I’ll be able to refer to as I develop further.” Nicola Jones – Gooseberry Moon

“The ABSPD course has propelled me much further than I imagined and has introduced me to a plethora of valuable information and contacts which has made me confident in my own ability to create beautiful designs.” Julie Ansbro

“ABSPD has boosted my design confidence, technical ability and industry know-how no end! I walk away from the class feeling sad that its over but with my head held high, belief in my abilities and excitement for what the future holds…this is only the beginning!” Martha Copinger Binnsmy

“With ABSPD, not only I’ve learned a lot about the business side of being a surface pattern designer, but also made some amazing discoveries about my creative process in a fun and proactive way.” Maira Chiodi

“The course has helped me in many different ways: I’ve learnt how to put a collection together, I understand now the importance of self-promotion and I got to know a lot of other designers around the world that are a big inspiration for me.” Antonela Del Vecchio

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series with module 1, module 2 and module 3 (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from more of our talented students, you can also read our lovely testimonials.

We also have Module 3 ‘Monetising Your Designs‘ starting on April 29th, 2013.

‘Tangerine Elephants’ by Natacha Devaud

Here is the last post of work from our very talented Module 2 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’! (from our Dec 2012 class). We are always so proud of our students & all their hard work and achievements, here are the beautiful collections they created over the 5 weeks in class. You can also view parts 1, 2 and 3 here

‘tango’ by Jannie Shepherd

‘Pineberry’ by Ashley Cordes

‘Baby Dream World’ by Laura Escalante

‘Les années 50 (French for the 50′s)’ by Nadine Mnemoi

Michele Cahill

‘Secret Garden’ by Charlotte Duffy

“Retro Tango’ by Lisa Deighan

Esme Sharples

Caitlin Miller

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from the students themselves you can also read our lovely testimonials.

We also have Module 3 ‘Monetising Your Designs‘ starting on April 29th, 2013.

Also, don’t miss out on our next run of Module 2 ‘Creating Your Professional identity’ which is running 19th August 2013! Click here for more information!

“Fall Tango” by Mariana Musa

Last week we showcased designs from our very talented Module 2 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’! (from our Dec 2012 class). Here is part 3 from our fantastic students & the work they have created over the 5 weeks in class.  You can also view parts 1 and 2 here. Part 4 will be posted in a few days time.

Ruth Thorp

“Spring Seedling Collection” by Briana Tomlin (Creative Octopus)

“Berries” by Mary Beth Cryan

” Hedge in bloom” by Tina Wilson

Amy Watson

“Layered Stems” by Wendy Flynn – Doris & Fred

“Flower Circle” by Carol Robinson

“Wilderness” by Jessica Wilde

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from the students themselves you can also read our lovely testimonials.

Module 3 ‘Monetising Your Designs‘ is also starting on April 29th, 2013.

Also, don’t miss out on our next run of Module 2 ‘Creating Your Professional identity’ which is running 19th August 2013! Click here for more information!

“Vintage Folk” by Melissa Nicholson

Here is part 2 of our round up from our very talented Module 2 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’! (from our Dec 2012 class). For the next week we will be showcasing our fantastic students & the work they have created over the 5 weeks in class. We are always so proud of our students & all their hard work and achievements.

Frances Boyd

Elizabeth Minton

 ”Rambling Flower” by Brenda Sutton

Jessica Woodfield

Nicola Jones

Judy Adamson

“Mezmerise” by Julie Ansbro

Trina Esquivelzeta

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from the students themselves you can also read our lovely testimonials.

We also have Module 3 ‘Monetising Your Designs‘ starting on April 29th, 2013.

Also, don’t miss out on our next run of Module 2 ‘Creating Your Professional identity’ which is running 19th August 2013! Click here for more information!

“Optimetrics” by Sam Osborne

We are really pleased to showcase these beautiful collections from our very talented Module 2 students of ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’! (from our Dec 2012 class). For the next week we will be showcasing our fantastic students & the work they have created over the 5 weeks in class. We are always so proud of our students & all their hard work and achievements.

“Blue Vine” by Andrea Rincón

“Little Houses”  by Antonela Del Vecchio

“Firo” by Mel Pope

“Autumn Forage” by Chloe Wood

“Jewel Box” by Kris Liew

“Verde Collection” by Maira Chiodi

“GeomeTree” by Jen Norton

“romantic 50s” by Dana Butunoi

If you are interested in ‘The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design (the e-course)’ we are thrilled to announce we are running a new series (starting on April 29th 2013) Register here! If you want to know more about the course from the students themselves you can also read our lovely testimonials.

“I have been staggered by the quality of this course and the variety of content included.  It is a rare gem when someone with so much experience is willing to share what she has learnt along the way – I really cant wait to build on this course with Modules 2 and 3!” Victoria Price

We are thrilled to showcase some more of the beautiful work from our previous class of designers from the module 1 class (from the December 2012 class). We are very proud of the beautiful work this class submitted.

“I love how this course has encouraged me to return to the humble, yet wonderful art of experimentation. Through experimentation, I have become more open minded and relaxed about how I approach my work.” Anne Waters anne carey

“Module 1 was greatly helped to understand and make pattern for me. Especially the week 4 course which was very good.” Ria Choi

“What really helped me from this course is the demystification of pattern design. I would stress so much about what is expected, now I have a much clearer idea of what is needed. What really counts is originality, color and imagination and paying attention to trends is very important. But one can become a trend-setter having a unique style and with their designs! Thank You so much.” Lisa Rivas

“This first module has really helped me to have more freedom with my design process.  I am experimenting more and not getting so hung up on things having to look perfect.” Karen Lewis Designz

“The best thing about this course for me was the freedom it gave my designing. I have always been following briefs and tight deadline but this course brought back the fun into my creating. I have remembered just how much fun my sketchbook can be!” Poppy Westwell

“This course has filled me with the inspiration, the courage and the confidence to just get on with it! To get on with designing and sketching and drawing to create surface pattern.  If I’d have seen some of my patterns before I started the course I wouldn’t have believed they’d have come from men – It’s been amazing and I can’t wait for the next modules.” Kate Cornish

“The most powerful element of the course for me was the confidence boost that it has given me to create my very own unique designs and send them out into the world. It has really opened my eyes up to the amazing possibilites of a career in surface design. It’s my dream to have my own fabric line one day, and I really believe that I’m now on my way.” Camille Condon

“The week on colour was so powerful for me and has completely changed my design style and the way I work; I had always worked in black & white but the colour week opened my eyes to the use of colour, where to find inspiration for it and how to use it confidently. The course has helped me to find my design style again, but more importantly it has given me the confidence to be a designer. “ Lisa-Anne Burgoyne 

“The most powerful element of the course is simply that it guides you smoothly through the design process in small simple steps and allows you to indulge in the playing and experimenting necessary to evolve.  Even if it contains elements that you’ve done already or know you should do, it’s the fact that it takes you along a path, you follow it, you have a lovely time and you come out the other end as a surface pattern designer – the limits of this being down to how much work you’re prepared to put into it.” Jo Taylor

If you have ever dreamt of seeing your designs on stationery, homewares, fabric or other products, our next session of classes begins on 29 April with Module 1, registration is open here.