Christmas baubles painted by hand and personalised in calligraphy

Why are personalised baubles so expensive?

I spent a very happy hour last night putting finishing touches to some personalised baubles. Different stages of my process for painting baubles are done around my calligraphy studio, and yesterday – being Sunday – I took a little time to paint botanical details on my Evie and Maeva baubles while I watched a little …

I will never be Gordon Ramsay’s favourite calligrapher. Here’s why.

It’s a long shot, but if Gordon Ramsay ever did a show called Ramsay’s Calligrapher Nightmares, he would NOT be happy with me. And it’s because of the baubles I write people’s names on. If you’re not familiar with Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares it’s that programme where he goes into a restaurant, changes everything and transforms the …

family tree in a natural oak frame personalised with 22 names and a bespoke title

A favourite personalised family tree, and a flourished calligraphy revamp!

I can’t believe this – but it’s been 10 years since this personalised family tree print first appeared on Not On The High St. I’m super proud of it, and while the illustration by my lovely friend Amy Swann is timeless and utterly enchanting, the calligraphy style needed an overhaul. Earlier this week I grabbed …

Family tree print against a bright wall backdrop with flowers

A cautionary tale about family tree calligraphy – and proofing!

I sell simple illustrated family trees on Not On The High St. They’re a favourite for 80th birthdays and 60th wedding anniversaries! And often, they’re ordered in a bit of a hurry. Top tip: if your Mum or Dad, Nan or Grandad, favourite auntie or uncle is celebrating a milestone birthday in the next month …

Summer sale! Calligraphy place names & more reduced

I am finally full of the joys of summer! It’s been a long old wait, but the sun is shining and the bees keep popping in to my calligraphy studio. Since the end of wedding season is approaching fast, it felt like the right time for a lovely summer sale in my Etsy calligraphy shop! …

A special, personalised Christmas gift they’ll fall in love with time after time

It doesn’t happen often, but my personalised handwritten baubles are a product I’m absolutely besotted with. They’re a joy to make, they look lovely and I have the best time making and writing them. They’re also really special – that one-of-a-kind Christmas present I can imagine people giving, knowing they’re made with love. The care …

joyful modern family tree for a special anniversary gift. Photography by Marion Botella

Unique gifts for special wedding anniversaries – made in the UK

Choosing a really special gift for a big occasion just got a little easier! I sell lots of lovely family trees to couples celebrating their ruby, diamond and gold anniversaries. They’re such a thoughtful idea to give – a beautiful piece of calligraphy art, made entirely by hand, and including all of the family. My …