Focus on ... Popsy & Plum

This week’s ‘Focus on…’ is Danielle from Popsy & Plum

Her colourful distinctive greeting cards are a lovely new addition to Chirpy

Read her interview to get to know a bit more about her.

Tell me a little bit about yourselves & your company

 Popsy & Plum is a vibrant, artist led British stationery brand known for it’s bold, joyful aesthetic and strong commitment to sustainability.  Founded by Illustrator & Digital Artist, Danielle Rogers, the brand reflects a love of colour, nature and thoughtful design.  In short, Popsy & Plum is a feel-good, design-forward brand with a conscience, offering beautifully illustrated products that celebrate everyday moments with charm and sustainability.

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

 After 10 years as a Wedding & Events Manager, I decided to redirect my creative passions from designing people's weddings to designing my own wedding favours, and thus Popsy & Plum was established.  Initially producing handcrafted products from my own fabric designs, I attended the Ladder Club in 2019 and subsequently launched my first greeting card collection in 2020. 

What does a ‘normal’ day look like?

A normal day for me always begins with a cup of tea! I then spend the morning processing any orders that have come through from the previous evening after which, I take a walk to the post office ably assisted by my two Cairn Terriers. The afternoon is usually spent catching up on admin, emailing stockists, updating listings on my online platforms, stock taking, planning social media content and, if I get around to it, drafting ideas for future collections.

Biggest achievement to date?

Twelve months after launching my first greetings card collection, I was privileged to become a Henries finalist in the category of ‘Best Contemporary Words & Sentiments Range' and two years later, I followed this up with being shortlisted in the category of 'Best Male Range’. I am also proud to be a recipient of the Theo Paphitis 'Small Business Sunday' award.

Where can we find your cards? 

 Popsy & Plum products are lovingly designed and printed in England and available in independent retailers around the UK … and now you can find them at the wonderful Chirpy!

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

 I’ve always struggled with this one.  It’s like asking me my favourite child!  However, if I have to pick one card design, I’d have to say the ‘lemon’.  It’s bright, fun and zesty with a fresh, contemporary style and looks great as a framed print. Interestingly, ‘Shine Like The Star You Are’ is one of my simplest designs and by far my most popular card.

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

I’ve noticed that consumers are moving more towards cards in ‘micro areas’ such dog birthdays, niche humour and emotional / neurodiverse support. Buyers want to connect at a deeper level and finding a card with the right words helps this.

Why do you think sending cards is still so important?

The act of choosing, writing, and posting a card shows a tangible proof of care.  A physical card shows the recipient that you’ve taken time and effort to connect and strengthens bonds and demonstrates thoughtfulness.  I also love that a card can often become a valued keepsake in a way that emails never can.

Best thing about running your own business?

The excitement I still get whenever anyone places an order, be that a wholesale order or one singular card, and the feeling of gratitude I have knowing that someone has chosen one of my designs to convey their sentiments.

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

I’m 10 years in and still working that one out!  

Plans for the future?

To continue doing what I love and to evolve the Popsy & Plum brand one collection at a time. 

Pop into Chirpy to see our range of Danielle’s cards.

Check out Popsy & Plum’s instagram to see what she’s up to.

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Focus on ... Gail Myerscough