illustrated memory books
I am currently opening up calendar space for new custom book commissions.
Every story is unique and I can't wait to collaborate with you to bring your specific memories to life.
Tell me about them, and I'll turn their story into something they can hold forever.
A hand-written, hand-illustrated book, made by a human and based on a story that you share with me.
It could be how your grandparents met, or a chapter of your own life you never want to forget. Perhaps the story of the day you proposed to your partner, or the day your child was born. Maybe it's an adventure that someone had before you were born, or simply just the quiet tales of a person who deserves to be remembered properly.
You tell me the story. I write it and illustrate it. You get a real, printed, holdable book that is completely bespoke and one of a kind.
how it works
Step 1: The Initial Enquiry - You get in touch via the form below and share a few high-level details about the story or the person you want to celebrate.
Step 2: Creative Consultation – We have a friendly virtual consultation so I can understand the specific details, memories, and emotions that matter most.
Step 3: Custom Pricing – On our call, we collaborate to establish a unique illustration style, book length, and print materials that perfectly suit your budget.
Step 4: Book Mock-Up & Feedback – I provide an initial layout of the book's structure and illustration style, giving you the opportunity for full feedback and approvals.
Step 5: Hand-Illustration Begins – I write and hand-illustrate the book, keeping you updated with a midpoint check-in and a final proof design before sending it to print.
Step 6: The Finished Keepsake – You receive a beautiful, printed copy of your bespoke storybook in your chosen format, ready to give as a meaningful gift or keep forever.
Pricing & timescales
Every book is different, so pricing and timescales depends on the story, print material, number of copies and the scope. Below you can find an indication of what different styles of projects and print can cost, but I would always love to try and work with the budget that you have!
Mini keepsake - 1 illustrated spread and short story - £85 (2 weeks turnaround)
Digital book - 10-15 pages - £110 (2-3 weeks turnaround)
Zine - up to 50 pages, printed - £225 (3-4 weeks turnaround)
Book - up to 200 pages, printed - £520 (5-6 weeks turnaround)
Get in touch and tell me what you have in mind - there's no obligation, and we'll figure out together what's right.
FAQs
What is an illustrated custom memory book?
It's a short book, hand-written and hand-illustrated by me, based on a real story or memory you share with me. Think of it as a bespoke storybook for a real person's real life. Printed, bound, and completely one of a kind.
How does creating an illustrated memory book work?
You get in touch and tell me about the story or person. We have a conversation so I can understand all the details. Then I write and illustrate the book and you receive a printed copy.
How much does a custom memory gift book cost?
Every custom illustrated book is entirely unique, so I quote based on your specific story and scope. Prices range from £85 for a mini keepsake up to £520 for a fully bound, 200-page bespoke book. Get in touch to discuss your project—there is absolutely no obligation.
How long does it take to make a custom memory gift book?
Turnaround times depend on complexity. A mini keepsake takes about 2 weeks, while a comprehensive, custom hand-illustrated storybook takes between 5 to 6 weeks. Because these commissions take longer than standard art prints, please get in touch as early as possible if you have a specific deadline or event in mind.
What occasions are custom memory gift books suited to?
Hand-illustrated memory books make deeply personal and unique gifts for major landmark occasions. They are perfectly suited for milestone birthdays (like a 70th or 80th birthday), paper wedding anniversaries, retirement celebrations, or as a heritage keepsake to preserve a grandparent's life story before it is lost.
Can you capture a grandparent's story?
Yes - this is one of my favourite things to make. If there's a person in your life whose story deserves to be told and remembered, this is exactly what this is for.
Can you include quotes from other people?
Absolutely! We're not limited to a traditional story. We can include your loved ones favourite music, places, recipes and any other personal touch about them, including quotes from other people in their life.
Do you ship outside the UK?
Get in touch and we'll work something out.