Focus on ... Jade Fisher

This month’s ‘Focus on’ is a new supplier to Chirpy, Jade Fisher.

Here’s a little interview we did with Jade to find out a little more about her.

Tell me a little bit about yourselves & your company

I have been designing our greeting cards for over 10 years. I built the business with help from my childhood best friend, my mum and my brother, and all the other family members and friends who have pitched in in some way or another along the way! Our aim is to spread paper positive vibes as far and wide as possible.

How did you get into doing what you’re doing?

I always used to make cards for my family and friends because I couldn’t find the specific kind of things I wanted to say to them on any cards in the shops! And I knew I wanted to work for myself and I was doing bits and bobs of other art/illustration work, so it just evolved from there.

What does a ‘normal’ day look like?

I really like to be on my feet during the day, so I am mostly picking and packing orders, starting with our website orders in the morning and trade orders afterwards, with too much coffee and a lunch time walk if I can fit it in. I work between the school run, and then I find I focus best on admin and emails in the evening time.

When I’m designing new stuff is obviously my favourite - I completely shut myself away with lovely music or background tv, coffee, snacks and paint.

 Biggest achievement to date?

I think just surviving 10 years of self employment, the last 5 of them as a single mum! I feel unbelievably lucky that I could keep my business going (and growing) amidst the absolute chaos of early motherhood.

Where can we find your cards?

Chirpy, now!

Favourite card you’ve designed  / most popular card design?

My current favourite is a new one that says, ‘You Lovely Soul.’ One of our all time best sellers is the one that says, ‘I Love You To The Bottom of the Deep Blue Sea.’

Have you seen any changing card trends over the last 12 months?

I honestly would have no idea. I do tend to stick to what I like, and design what I want to put out into the world without really knowing much else about what’s going on.

Why do you think sending cards is still so important?

I do feel sad about how un-human we seem to be becoming sometimes. Reading a screen just does nothing compared to feeling paper in your hands, seeing a person’s handwriting… The whole act of someone choosing a card, sitting down to write something that feels important enough to be written rather than typed, going to a post box, waiting for that card to arrive on someone else’s doorstep. It’s nostalgic and romantic and the loveliest form of connection I can think of. Also, the art! There are so many gorgeous greeting cards out there, and to gift someone a little piece of art is so much more meaningful and impactful than a digital message.

Best thing about running your own business?

Having been doing it for quite a while, the best thing now is that I have the confidence to trust my gut, to trust that I know what the best next move is.

Advice to someone looking to turn their hobby / talent into a business?

Don’t really look around yourself too much. Stay in your lane, make stuff that you love and be completely genuine.

Plans for the future?

Honestly, hopefully just this forever!

 Check out Jade’s Instagram HERE

We’re sure Jade’s cards are going to be to popular in Chirpy so why not pop in and buy one.

5 of the best Mother’s Day gifts in Chirpy

Rosie Made a Thing 5 Star China Mug

With Mother’s Day just around the corner on Sunday 15th March, we thought we’d choose our favourite 5 gifts ideas available at Chirpy in store and online for that special lady.

From gorgeous homewares, bath & beauty products and fabulous accessories, we’re sure that you’ll love what we’ve got in store at the moment at Chirpy.

Seen something you think will be the perfect present for the mum, stepmum, carer, or just a lady you want to say Thank You to then pop in store or add it to your basket online.

Order by Monday 9th March and use the code MUM2026 to get FREE SHIPPING

Here’s what we’ve picked for you …

1. 5 Star Mum mug

Make mum’s day with a cup of tea in bed on Mother’s Day - served perfectly in the bone china mug.

Supplied in a spotty box - perfect for gifting

Add to your basket HERE

2. Colour Block Cotton Cushion

For the colour enthusiast, these block colour cushion covers are a great way to add, enhance or create colour in your home.

Made from 100% cotton, each cushion is finished with a scalloped edging in a different colour; making for some striking colour combinations.

Add to your basket HERE

3. Grow Bars

For the garden (or window box) enthusiast.

Cleverly curated seed collection nestled in neat, fertile coir bards, ready to grow! Choose from a variety of different bars, including Butterfly, Bee & Gin

The perfect letterbox gift! Just add water!!

Add to basket HERE

4. Ceramic Soy Candle

Featuring vibrant hues and inviting patterns each 8oz/226g ceramic vessel is meticulously hand-painted with individual brushstrokes for an artisan feel.

Choose from five expressive illustrations, each one including a matching hand drawn dust cover and adventurous fragrance.

Add to basket HERE

5. Colour Pop Paper Vase

The honeycomb paper vase, set to be the talking point of the table, containing a glass vial with a pastel honeycomb casing that’s held together by a magnetic closure.

Simply pop the glass vial into the vase, add water and fill with flowers.

Available in 2 colours : Lilac/ Green & Yellow/Orange

Add to basket HERE

As always, at Chirpy we aim to bring you great, affordable gifts for all occasions and Mother’s Day is no exception. From local products to small brands we’re sure you’ll find just what you’re looking for.

Shop MOTHER’S DAY HERE

And what’s more, by shopping local you’re supporting the local economy, and keeping the high street thriving.

See you soon in Chirpy x

Chirpy Jo treks (again!) to raising money for Coppafeel!

On 9th May, Jo the owner of Chirpy, will be lacing up her walking boots again to raise money for Coppafeel! the breast cancer charity aimed at raising awareness amongst young people.

This year she’ll be walking a marathon 26 miles in one day in the beautiful Peak District along with 100 other trekkers.

Last year you helped her raise over £5k when she trekked for a week on the (very rainy!) Isle of Skye.

The target this year is much small but every little helps.

If you are able to spare a few ££s or pennies then please donate to her Justgiving page HERE

Chirpy will also be hosting a Charity Coffee Morning on Sunday 22nd March from 11am

Supported by local coffee shops and bakers, grab a ticket HERE to join us and help us raise money

Thank you for all of your support - it means the world!

Welcoming Tessa Houghton's New Exhibition 'Land, Sea & Sky'

We’re delighted to welcome back international artist Tessa Houghton to Chirpy with her new exhibition ‘Land, Sea & Sky’

Tessa’s exhibition with run between Thursday 12th March and Saturday 28th March.

She’ll be at Chirpy for a ‘Meet the Artist’ on Saturday 14th March from 12pm. Come along to chat to Tessa to find out her inspiration for her new body of work and a free informal drinks reception - all welcome.

Tessa’s exhibition with run until Saturday 28th May.

Born in Lancashire in 1976, Tessa Houghton celebrates the beauty of natural landscapes, capturing the atmosphere and drama of the elements through expressive mark-making and layers of oil paint and texture. Her new collection explores the elemental spaces of land, water, and sky, evoking light, movement, and emotion.

 The paintings hover between abstraction and figuration, inviting viewers to experience their own interpretations and connections.

Her work has been exhibited and collected extensively across the UK and internationally, including Barcelona, New York, Texas, San Francisco, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Artist Statement

"I am captivated by landscapes that stir memory and emotion, places that have shaped my own journey. From the tangled canal banks of my childhood to the vast solitude of the North Yorkshire moors and coastline, I explore the liminal spaces where land, water, and sky meet. Through light, texture, and expressive gesture, I explore the atmosphere, memory, and emotion of the landscape. I hope my work sparks a sense of possibility and invites the viewer into a space of reflection and wonder."

Chirpy goes back to school!

Jo McBeath has thoroughly enjoyed going back to school as the owner of indie retailer Chirpy was able to pass on her passion for greeting cards.

As part of the GCA’s Card Club initiative to get youngsters involved in sending and receiving greetings Jo joined up with St Matthew’s Church Of England Primary School in the same community as her Chapel Allerton shop for a wellbeing assembly

The school decided to combine a focus on mental health with the “simple but powerful act of sending postcards within our local community”, she explained. with pupils exploring how cards can be used to spread kindness, encouragement, and positive messages.

It was all part of last week’s Children’s Mental Health Week, organised by the Place2Be charity, and the school’s Georgia Stansfield said: “It was a heart-warming project that brings together wellbeing, creativity, and community connection.

“Drawing inspiration from a range of designs by Chirpy and their suppliers, the children studied different styles, colours, and messages before creating their own unique postcard designs. Using these ideas as a starting point, pupils developed their creativity while thinking carefully about how their words and artwork could make others feel valued and connected.

“The project not only encouraged artistic expression but also helped children reflect on empathy, communication, and the importance of reaching out to others.

“By sharing their handmade postcards within the community, pupils experienced first-hand how small gestures can have a meaningful impact on wellbeing.”

And Jo said the initiative has shown how creative projects can play a vital role in supporting children’s mental health while strengthening ties within the wider community, with the whole school getting involved throughout the week.

“It was great to come along,” Jo said, “I loved every minute, I had a wonderful morning and it was great to see the children so excited about making their postcards.”

Read the article in PG Buzz HERE

Focus on ... Martha Ratcliff

This month’s Focus on a new supplier to Chirpy, Martha Ratcliff.

Here’s a little interview we did with Martha to find out a little more about her.

Tell me a little bit about yourselves & your company

I’m Martha, the illustrator behind Martha Ratcliff Illustration. I create hand-drawn cards and artwork inspired by motherhood, storytelling, and everyday small joyful moments. My style is playful and gentle, with a focus on designs that feel joyful, thoughtful, and timeless! I actually started out illustrating cards alongside my art degree, mainly just for fun, and selling them to friends and family. After graduating, I went on to work as an in-house card designer, which gave me a great perspective in the industry. In 2020, I decided to take the leap and set up my own freelance illustration business, and I’ve been growing Martha Ratcliff Illustration ever since and haven't looked back! As a mum, a lot of my ideas come from real life and I am constantly inspired by the small joys around us. I really love working with independent shops and brands who care about beautiful, well-made products.

What does a ‘normal’ day look like?

No day is the same! Two days a week I spend with my 20 month son, often at a playgroup, park or library! The rest of the week is work time and my days start with a strong cup of coffee and a hand written to do list - that is vital! One day could be packing wholesale orders, another could be working on a fun branding project, a custom family portrait or a wedding invite! Things are so varied and that is what I love about my job!! 

Favourite card you’ve designed / most popular card design?

Great question and also a hard one! I love my motherhood card range - since having my boy I found there wasn’t really many cards out there that I could send to my fellow mum friends to let them know what an amazing mum they are so I designed a range of them and they are probs my fave!! In terms of most popular, my 'I love our little life' card with the two horses is a current fave!

Why do you think sending cards is still so important?

In my opinion the world has become too fast paced and everything is on our phones - texts, whatsapp, social media etc.... there is something so different and thoughtful about sending a card. Going out of your way to buy the card and sitting down to write it. It means SO much more than a text. I think it is so important. The cards my husband and I received when we got married or when we had our little boy, they are my favourite and I often go through them and will keep them forever! 

Best thing about running your own business?

Another great question! I think for me, getting to connect with other amazing small biz owners and creatives is a huge win! The diverse range of client projects that come in and also the flexibility my job allows me with my son! Don't get me wrong, there are really hard things too but its worth it ten times over!! 

Advice to someone looking to turn their hobby / talent into a business?

Do it! Go for it!!  I’d say the biggest thing is just to start — don’t wait until it feels “perfect.” Test your ideas with friends, family, or small sales, and see what resonates. For me what was really useful was building up some freelance clients on the side whilst still working. Once I had built up enough and felt like I had enough work coming in I jumped into full time freelance illustrator life and haven't looked back 6 years on! Be prepared to learn as you go, because running a business is very different from making things for fun — there’s pricing, marketing, and customer relationships to think about. Don’t be afraid to invest in yourself and your work. Whether that’s tools, courses, or professional advice, it can really make a difference. And most importantly, keep the joy in what you do — that passion and authenticity will show through and connect with people.

Plans for the future?

Oooh lets think! I have some exciting collabs coming up which I can't wait to share and also looking to really grow my wholesale side of my business this year and get my cards out into more shops across the UK! I'm also looking at designing some more stationery products - think notebooks, stickers, desk pads etc!

 Check out Martha’s Instagram HERE

We’re sure Martha’s cards are going to be to popular in Chirpy so why not pop in and buy one.

Focus on ... Liz aka Dicky Bird

This month’s Focus on .. is Liz, one of our favourite card suppliers Dicky Bird. Liz’s cards fly of the shelves in Chirpy and are some of the most popular we stock so we thought it was about time we shone a light on her

Here’s a little interview we did with Liz to find out a little more about her.

Tell me a little bit about yourselves & your company

Dicky Bird is me - Liz - a small studio based in South East London. My aim has always been to create cards which are elegant and classic but also contemporary and fun.

How did you get into doing what you’re doing?

I originally trained as a graphic designer at the London College of Communication but was always a fan of European illustrators such as Dick Bruna and Tove Jansson - as well as Japanese kawaii characters like Hello Kitty! A serial card buyer, I was always searching for simple, understated designs but could rarely find them.

What does a ‘normal’ day look like?

There are lots of different days really. As a one woman show you have to do everything! But I like that. I hop from new designs to accounts, trade fairs to product research, customer service to photography.

Biggest achievement to date?

Seeing my designs for sale in the Parisian boutique Colette, once described as ‘the trendiest store in the world’ by Forbes. What can I say?!

 Where can we find your cards?

Over the years, Dicky Bird cards have graced the shelves of Liberty of London, the Design Museum, The British Museum, Tate Modern & Tate Britain, The Designers Guild and The Conran Shop – but most importantly, many amazing independents – like Chirpy!

Favourite card you’ve designed / most popular card design?

That’s an impossible question! But I do really like the Black Cat design at the moment – it just reminds me of something from my childhood I think.

Have you seen any changing card trends over the last 12 months?

I honestly try not to look at what other card publishers are doing – I just like to keep in my own lane and do the things I like. Things I’ve liked lately though are toadstools, blossom flowers and nail art.

Why do you think sending cards is still so important?

It’s still a hundred times nicer to receive a card in the post than it is to get a text message or digital card. There’s just something a bit magic about it and I don’t think that will ever change.

Best thing about running your own business?

In a nutshell, being your own boss. It gives you freedom.

Advice to someone looking to turn their hobby / talent into a business?

If you think there’s a market for what you do, give it a go. I started off by producing a small collection and selling at fairs and markets – it gives you a good idea of what’s popular and what doesn’t sell. Remember it can be a bit lonely at times – and don’t forget you have to do the boring stuff too, like accounts!

Plans for the future?

I‘ve done some collaborations with other designers and companies in the past and I’d like to do some more of that. It’s nice to work with other people.

 Check out Dicky Bird’s Instagram HERE

And pop into Chirpy to buy Liz’s cards, but be quick as they sell out!

6 of the best Creative Workshops this Spring at Chirpy

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

Our Chirpy Workshop programme is live and we’ve got some great creative evenings for you.

Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or to learn a new skill in 2026, wanting to organise an evening with friends or have a Chirpy Workshop Voucher to spend then we’re sure you’ll find something you’d love to do.

Here’s 6 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Spring.

1. Spring Flower Bowl Fused Glass

Thursday 26th Feb 7-8:30pm Book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass? In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit, stringers and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass spring bowl picture. 

2. Jesmonite Coasters

Thursday 5th March 7-9pm Book Here

In this workshop you'll make 2 trinket trays perfect to use for your jewellery or as coasters. Choose from different shapes you'll make a base colour for your trays and add a mix of coloured shards to give a multi coloured terrazzo finish.

3. Bluebell Forest painting workshop

Thursday 12th March 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

4. Calligraphy

Friday 13th March 7-9pm book here

A relaxing and mindful two hour workshop exploring the art of modern calligraphy. We start with warm up exercises and basic strokes, practice letterforms and then have a go at crafting your name, before moving into writing our own affirmations.

5 . Fused Glass Spring Wreath

Thursday 19th March 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made by applying  frit and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

6. Doodlemap workshop

Thursday 26th March 6:30 - 8:30pm book here

Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?

This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.

Still not sure which workshop to book?

Then why not buy a Chirpy Workshop Voucher? Valid for all workshops in 2026, the perfect gift for someone crafty

All our workshops are perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, and you’ll get 10% off in store during the workshop.

Chirpy Festive Opening Hours

Chirpy will be Open every day right up until about 2pm on Christmas Eve (or until the last customer leaves!)

We can’t thank you enough for all the support we’ve had this year, especially with the run up to Christmas.

We’ll be taking a well deserved break and back open on Friday 2nd January.

Our workshops will restart in February - check out what we’ve got coming up HERE

You can shop online at any time with Chirpy - orders placed from Tuesday 23rd December will be posted on Friday 2nd January Tracked48

5 of the best Creative Workshops coming up at Chirpy in 2026

Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista

After a busy 2025 with our Chirpy Workshops we’ve already launched our programme for 2026.

Our workshops make great gifts for a crafty friend, a brilliant way to spend an evening crafting together or why not treat yourself to learn a new skill for 2026.

Here’s 5 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this 2026

1. Spring Flower Bowl Fused Glass

Thursday 26th Feb 7-8:30pm Book here

Ever fancied making an item from fused glass? In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit, stringers and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass spring bowl picture. 

2. Jesmonite Coasters

Thursday 5th March 7-9pm Book Here

In this workshop you'll make 2 trinket trays perfect to use for your jewellery or as coasters. Choose from different shapes you'll make a base colour for your trays and add a mix of coloured shards to give a multi coloured terrazzo finish.

3. Bluebell Forest painting workshop

Thursday 12th March 7-9:15pm book here

Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.

We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…

4 . Fused Glass Spring Wreath

Thursday 19th March 7-8:30pm book here

Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.

Made by applying  frit and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.

The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.

5. Doodlemap workshop

Thursday 26th March 6:30 - 8:30pm book here

Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?

This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.

Still not sure which workshop to book?

Then why not buy a Chirpy Workshop Voucher? Valid for all workshops in 2026, the perfect gift for someone crafty

All our workshops are perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, and you’ll get 10% off in store during the workshop.