Sam had a chat with Vicky Burdon, about her wedding stationary company, FairyFrog.
HM: Who are you and what do you do?
VB: My name's Vicky and I run my own wedding stationery company called FairyFrog Wedding Stationery.
HM: What did you do after finishing your illustration degree?
VB: After my degree at University of Derby I starting work at an advertising agency in the city. I then progressed into marketing and also working for a very successful national magazine.
HM: You mentioned that you have worked for a few design agencies and national magazines, what project have you enjoyed the most and why?
VB: I love working with fellow creatives - photographers, fashion stylists, prop stylists on various photo shoots for beauty, real-life and fashion features.
HM: How and why did you decide you wanted to launch your own business?
VB: Since being asked to design my sisters wedding stationery I have always had a passion for creating such special and memorable pieces of creative information. I was then in demand by friends and family to design theirs. I soon realised I could turn my passion into a business and with my background knowledge in the design industry I had the confidence to set up my stationery business.
HM: How do you find running your own business, what are the positives and negatives?
VB: Receiving lovely feedback from clients is so rewarding... knowing that I've contributed in making their special day a success is just fabulous! It's also great to be able to work from home... any time of day! Having a new born baby this is most handy!! Negatives are not having enough hours in the day....I'm designer, web designer, photographer, advertiser, accountant, secretary, post lady all rolled into one!
HM: What is the best bit of advice you could give to someone wanting to set up their own business?
VB: Make the most of social networking! Facebook and twitter have been a great, not to mention free, way to advertise and meet fellow creatives.
HM: Do clients often give you free reign or do most know exactly what they want? which is most fun to work on?
VB: Most brides have clear ideas of their themes and often want their invites to co-ordinate with their wedding colours. I offer a free colour matching service which is a massive bonus to clients! Its always enjoyable to get a brief from a client for a bespoke design - gives me the chance to get my sketchbook out!
HM: Did you design your own wedding stationary?
VB: Of course!! I wanted something very personal and in theme with how I proposed (yes...I proposed!!). They involved photo's, hand written signs and silly props!!
HM: Which design is your most popular?
VB: It's all been about snowflakes recently... lots of Christmas brides! Pocketfold invitations are very popular...a handy way of keeping all important information such as RSVP's, menu cards, directions, wedding list in one wallet.
Head to the FairyFrog website for more details. You can also find Vicky on and to find out what she's been up to and to keep up to date with which wedding fayres she will be at.