Emma Guy Illustrations

Q & A with Emma Guy of Emma Guy Illustrations

Where is your business based? Are you in a home studio? Do you have a shop?

I’m home based with work online and stock in a local shop in Newbury.

Tell us about your business. Where did it all begin? Why did you launch it?

Whilst I was pregnant with my eldest child, I started looking online for pictures to decorate the room. I couldn’t find exactly what I imagined, so I decided to put my illustration degree to use and drew them myself. I was surprised at the feedback I received, so along with the support of my husband, I decided to attend local craft fairs to sell prints of the animal illustrations I had drawn, as well as others. From there, my business has grown with now over forty animals available as prints and I’m branching out into other products such as shopper bags and coasters.

What does your business offer? What is its USP?

I research and source good quality, well-made eco-friendly products. I illustrate animal portraits of British wildlife as well as domestic pets and more exotic animals.

What are your plans for the business? What can local shoppers expect to see from you this year and in the future?

I’m looking forward to expanding into new product ranges and trying to get my work into more shops.

how do you find being a small / independent business owner? Do you have any tips for those striving to do the same?

Research and find the products that suit your ethos. There are lots of companies out there and lots of different qualities, so find the items that suit you.