Lichfield artist celebrates five years of Love2dream

A Lichfield artist who turned a passion for drawing into a thriving design and giftware business is celebrating five years of trading.

Jacqui Roberts (pictured), founder of Love2dream and a member of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, launched the business in 2021 after drawing a picture for a friend inspired her to create hand-drawn pictures of her home city.

Initially sold through a local shop, at markets and online, the designs quickly proved popular and the collection has since expanded to include Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and Tamworth, alongside a growing range of giftware and stationery.

Starting Love2dream marked a significant career change for Jacqui, who previously worked in marketing for major FMCG businesses.

“Leaving a secure job to start my own business was a big leap, but I've never looked back," she said.

“Marketing my own brand is so much more rewarding. Every product I sell, every new listing and every like on social media means so much - it's evidence that my small business is growing.”

Five years on, Love2dream has grown from four Lichfield drawings sold through a single shop to more than 50 designs and around 500 product codes, stocked in over 10 retailers, with further stockists set to be added.

The range has expanded from prints to include greeting cards, coasters, tote bags, mugs and Christmas cards.

Last year, Jacqui introduced a collection of pet-themed designs, which quickly became one of her most popular ranges and has opened up opportunities with new retail partners.

She has also become well known locally through her artwork and community projects, including designing the viewing boards at the top of the Tower at The Hub at St Mary's, contributing artwork to local historian Jono Oates' Ale Trail, and creating gifts for important visitors to Lichfield.

As Love2dream celebrates its fifth birthday, the business is preparing for its next chapter, with a new name and further plans due to be revealed in the coming months.

She added: “It's been hard work - especially on some very cold market days! - but seeing the business grow from four drawings to where it is today has made it all worthwhile. I'm really excited about what the next chapter will bring.”