When did you set up your business and why?

I started my business in March 2020, after I had some requests for my illustrations to be printed as art prints.

All my illustrations are created digitally.

Can you explain your process?

I create art prints, greeting cards and mugs from my illustrations under the name Fleur & Mimi (named after my two daughters).

I am a self-taught artist and love to create colourful designs inspired by nature and everything I am surrounded with.

Bea creates art prints, greeting cards and mugs from her illustrations under the name Fleur & Mimi.

Being sustainable is very important to me. I use FSC-certified paper for my art prints and greeting cards and these are packaged in bio-compostable bags.

All my greeting cards and art prints are printed in Ireland.

What is your best-seller?

My enamel mugs are very popular at the moment, especially with the swimmers, sea lovers, campers and other outdoor people.

Bea's enamel mugs are very popular at the moment

The mugs are great for little hands too! The sea-inspired art prints are very popular too.

What is it about your business that brings you joy?

To know that my art prints are hanging up in people’s homes is such a lovely thought.

I am occasionally at a market and the chats with people are just so nice.

Nothing can beat the loveliest messages from customers after they have received their order.

What are your plans for the coming year?

My plan for 2022/2023 is to grow my small business and to expand my range of art prints.

What advice would you give another start-up business?

For anyone thinking of starting a small business, I would advise to give it time and stick with it. Success doesn’t happen overnight!

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