Two childhood friends, Lizzie Spikes and Becky Barratt, set off on a journey that led to the creation of a successful Welsh brand, Driftwood Designs. What started with a ‘welcome home’ gift from Lizzie to Becky blossomed into a business that now employs nearly 20 staff members and operates three shops. Their brand offers homewares, cards, and gifts featuring unique art, with a strong emphasis on celebrating Wales and its beauty.
In 2012, at a kitchen table chat, the idea for Driftwood Designs was born. Lizzie, with a background in fine art and scenographic design, and Becky, with experience in business and entrepreneurship, combined their different skill sets to kickstart their venture. They initially worked from their homes, selling cards and posters at markets. The motivation behind their hard work was to create a flexible work environment that allowed them to balance business with family life.
The growth of Driftwood Designs led them to move from a shed to a lock-up, eventually opening their first shop in Aberystwyth in 2017. The business continued to expand, leading to the opening of two more shops in Cardiff and Aberaeron. Their dedication to Welsh pride and supporting local businesses is evident in their products, with a focus on celebrating Wales through art, language, and landscapes.
Despite the challenges and mistakes along the way, Lizzie and Becky’s passion for their work shines through. They are proud to have created a supportive work environment where employees, like Sian, have been able to achieve significant milestones such as buying a house through their hard work. Lizzie’s artistic talent paired with Becky’s business acumen has been a winning combination for Driftwood Designs.
The success of Driftwood Designs not only lies in the quality of their products but also in their commitment to affordability and accessibility. They strive to make art a part of everyday life, ensuring that their products resonate with a wide audience. Embracing their Welsh heritage, Lizzie and Becky have found a way to connect with people through their unique creations, celebrating the beauty of Wales in each piece.
As they look towards the future, Lizzie and Becky remain grounded in their roots, proud of how far they have come from that initial kitchen table chat. Their love for what they do and the joy they find in their work is a testament to the power of friendship, creativity, and dedication. Driftwood Designs continues to grow, bringing a piece of Wales to homes far and wide, one artful creation at a time.