The Making of Sillygoosedesign: How My Little Doodles Became a Business

Every small business has an origin story, and mine began with something wonderfully simple: doodles. The kind you sketch absentmindedly, the kind that make you smile without trying. I never imagined they would become the heart of a growing creative venture—but thanks to a little encouragement (and a lot of laughter), Sillygoosedesign was born.

Where It All Started

It began with my sister and my husband. They’d seen my quirky little drawings scattered around the house—animals in jumpers, ducks in hats, foxes wearing heels—and they insisted these doodles had something special. “These would make brilliant cards,” they said. “Fun, family-friendly, and totally you.”

I shrugged it off at first. But the idea stuck. And once it stuck, it grew.

From Doodles to Designs

I started experimenting with watercolour and pen, letting the characters take on personalities of their own. Before long, I had a small collection of illustrations that made me laugh—and that was the moment I knew I wanted to share them.

Today, Sillygoosedesign has around twenty unique card designs - all will be available soon on the website, each one featuring a funny or heartwarming animal dressed in charmingly unexpected outfits. Think highland coos in caps and gilets, geese in cowboy boots, or dogs wearing pearls...like every dog should#

. They’re light-hearted, colourful, and created to make people smile.

Bringing the Cards to Life

Once the designs were ready, I had them professionally printed onto A6 cards. Holding the first printed batch felt surreal—like watching an idea step out of my sketchbook and into the real world. The quality, the colours, the feel of the card stock… it all came together beautifully.

And just like that, Sillygoosedesign wasn’t just a fun idea anymore. It was a little business.

What’s Next for Sillygoosedesign

Cards are just the beginning. I’m now exploring prints and mugs, because these illustrations deserve to live beyond envelopes. They make lovely little gifts—perfect for birthdays, thank-yous, or just-because moments. And the best part is that we can send everything throughout the UK, spreading a bit of joy one silly goose at a time.

Why I Love What I Do

Creating these designs has become one of my favourite parts of the day. There’s something magical about turning a blank page into a character with personality, charm, and a touch of mischief. Knowing that these little creations might brighten someone’s day makes the whole process even sweeter.

Sillygoosedesign is still growing, still evolving, and still fuelled by the same simple joy that started it all: doodles that make people smile.