Hello! I'm Lottie. 

This all started in 2021 when I created seeded greeting cards for a friend's wedding. I saw a gap in the market for a more 'sophisticated' design, so I drew simple and elegant monochrome designs with countryside themes and botanical elements, and printed them on handmade seeded paper, word got out locally, they ended up selling well, and so I ran with it! 

I registered Cotswold Handmade Cards Ltd in February 2022 after receiving interest from a few big retailers. The growth led to expansion of our wholesale market, as well as attending trade shows, pop-ups and craft markets, things were really taking off, it was all very exciting!

However, unfortunately, a health crisis in mid-2022 interrupted plans when I underwent major spinal surgery and needed a laminectomy to remove a benign tumor from my spinal cord. Thanks to our wonderful NHS and my supportive partner, family and friends, I made a good, but long, recovery.

I've always been a bit creative and that side kept me sane on difficult days, especially when I couldn't move around that much - so I'd draw! The recovery taught me to try and take a more relaxed approach to life (hmm.. still learning) and to appreciate what you have around you. I feel incredibly lucky to live in an area surrounded by rich history, countryside, timeless style, and stunning architecture.

It seemed only natural that after a year and a half or so of illustrating Cotswold designs to offer a selection of gifts, homewares, and home decor pieces for lovely people who share the same passion for this beautiful place as I do.

So in February 2024 I rebranded the business as The Cotswold Illustrated Company, and I'm back to trading at local markets a few times a week! You can often find me in Cirencester, Moreton-in-Marsh or Chipping Norton Markets, feel free to stop for a chat if you're ever in the area, or if you'd like to collect a pre-order from me at one of the markets then send a message over.

Thank you for all your continued support,

Lottie