There were two primary motivations that drove me to start my own business. Firstly, I had a strong desire to engage in something incredibly creative. Secondly, I wanted to put my marketing degree to good use.

From a young age, I possessed a natural inclination towards creativity. I found great joy in drawing and writing, and my storytelling abilities flourished. Growing up in an airforce family, I spent a considerable amount of time in airports and on air bases, seeking imaginative adventures to alleviate the boredom.

Pursuing a career in the creative industries was always a given for me, whether as a writer or an artist. While I did well in my English exams, it was receiving an A in my art exam that felt like a sign from the universe, confirming that art was meant to be my path. I dedicated years to studying and earned a degree in Design and Marketing. Along the way, I acquired additional qualifications and continuously honed my skills to stay in touch with the ever-evolving landscape of my trade, including a Masters in 2019.

After graduating, I began working in traditional design services, initially as a designer and eventually progressing to the role of consultant, focusing on strategic aspects. Simultaneously, I started sketching products featuring my own designs and launched a side-business, primarily to furnish my new home. It took a couple of years for the business to gain traction, but eventually, I made the decision to leave my "proper" job, and now, 21 years later, I am still successfully trading.

Presently, I also provide consulting services to other online businesses. If you're interested in learning more about my consulting work, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.

In 2002, my journey began, where I wore multiple hats—designing, creating, packaging, and shipping. It took two years of hard work to establish my presence, and in 2004, I took the leap to pursue my passion full-time, leaving behind my role as an internet consultant. Throughout the span of 21 years, my goal has been to build a business that thrives independently of my direct involvement. Today, I proudly oversee the designs while enjoying an incredible partnership that handles the manufacturing side with expert care and support. This synergy allows me to focus solely on what I love most.

In 2002, my business was originally called 'Two by Two,' a name that perfectly encapsulated the essence of weddings, which I exclusively focused on for many years. I was drawn to the concept of partnership and the idea of embarking on a journey together through life. However, as my business evolved and diversified, I realised that the name no longer resonated quite as strongly.

Then, a significant event occurred in my life—I got married! With this new chapter, I gained a beautiful and simple name that everyone could easily spell (especially considering my maiden name was O'Donovan!). Thus, the birth of Natalie Ryan Design came to be, a name that represents who I am and the creative work I bring to the world.

My inspiration largely comes from travel & adventure, fashion and nature.

I've always been a keen traveller, and during lockdown I learnt adventure doesn't always involve getting on a jet. My latest skylines are focused on UK places and I’ve produced a range of Devon, Cornwall & Dorset travel posters inspired by the incredible beaches we have here. 

In December 2021 my husband and I moved from Winchester City to a Hampshire village surrounded by countryside and nature. Ever since we moved my love of nature has grown and I’ve begun living more seasonally. The more I read about it the more I love it, and it’s creeping into my work. I’ve started writing about the seasons on the blog.