Independent gift shop opens in Shoreham

Paper Raven, founded by couple Lydia Mae and James Tulley, opened its doors on Saturday, October 24.

Despite a duo of storms bringing severe weather to the coast that weekend, locals still flocked to show their support on the opening day, according to Lydia.

Paper Raven sells eco-friendly greeting cards, wrapping paper and artwork designed by Lydia, alongside stationery, gifts and items for children and babies. Most of the pieces on offer come from local or UK makers, with a few ‘select’ brands from further afield.

Lydia said: "We put a lot of thought into curating the selection of products we're selling.”

The Shoreham mum’s journey into illustration began when her son, now 10, started nursery.

She said: "[I’ve] always loved art and being creative but started painting again then. I posted a couple of images on social media and a few shops got in touch asking if I did greeting cards.

"So I made some and, after a few years of it being a hobby business, I decided to grow it by doing some trade shows and opening a shop in Steyning.

“We wanted something different now we're selling more products from other brands. Ravens signify loyalty and are often thought of as messengers, which we thought tied in well with the greeting cards – the root of the business.”

Lydia previously ran a shop in Steyning, but decided to move to a larger site to expand the range of products she could offer.

The new shop also means Lydia has more space to grow the wholesale side of her business. She currently sells her own, handmade products to more than 100 other UK stockists.

Paper Raven is located at 34 East Street, BN43 5ZD.

For more information, and to browse some of Lydia’s artwork, visit: lydiamae.co.uk.