Pictured above: Charlotte Thomson

A flair for illustration combined with a passion for retro style and glamour are proving to be a winning formula for East Midlands-based artist Charlotte Thomson.

Charlotte Thomson Art & Illustration was established in 2005 with Charlotte's specialist area being figurative illustration with a retro feel. "I followed a natural progression into commercial illustration and graphic design from an arts based education," explains Charlotte.  "I now create fine art pieces and illustrative design solutions for private and business clients."

Glamour and fashion

Charlotte is regularly commissioned to re-create an authentic 1940s or 50s style for clients and her work has graced literature and marketing materials for many leading international fashion and lingerie labels. "I specialise in creating fun and evocative images, especially portraiture and these are heavily influenced by the fashions and imagery of eras such as the 1940s, 1950s and the 'Belle Époque'.

While much of her work comes through commissions for illustrations, Charlotte's experience as a Gallery and Corporate events Coordinator have led to these skills also being in demand. "Part of my business includes organising one-off events for clients as well as ongoing, regular projects including Dr Sketchy's Anti Art School Nottingham, Danse Macabre, Pit of Curiosities and Delicate Treats."  

Business focus

With Charlotte starting her business straight from art college, she coped for the first three years with very little guidance from outside. "I approached Business Link at the critical point where my business needed more focus and a stronger structure to move forward and become a reliable source of income. Knowing what I know now, they could have helped me a lot over the last three years and I wish I'd contacted them earlier!"

With the help of the support made available by Business Link, Charlotte was able to gain a better understanding and realisation of the potential of the services she could offer clients as she explains. "I am now able to structure my pricing and time management in a way to make the business more profitable. Through Business Link I have also accessed additional support to develop new computer skills to enable me to manage my finances and budgets more effectively."

Charlotte continues, "My adviser has provided valuable support and help to put the basics in place. With a focused business plan and marketing strategy, my business now has a stronger foundation from which to grow."

Charlotte's Top tips

• Address the issues you have one at a time.

• Ask for support - services like Business Link (Tel 0845 058 6644) provide a one stop shop for all the advice you need.

• Working in bite sized chunks can stop things becoming overwhelming.

• Get to know other business owners, knowing someone 'in the same boat' is invaluable.